Going the extra mile for a greener future

Navigating emissions targets and regulatory protocols is nothing new in the logistics industry, but one company is showing that impactful ESG is not just about high-level strategy – it’s about rolling up your sleeves. From planting vegetable gardens at their offices to supporting local schools – and even launching their “Jars of Hope” feeding initiative – SACO Shipping has embedded sustainability into the fabric of its operations. “We understand the significance of our impact on the environment and the influence we have on humanity,” said Beverly Kirstein, chief human resource officer at SACO Shipping. “That is why we established an internal ESG committee that meets regularly to brainstorm ways we can give back, whether through environmental initiatives or community outreach. Our efforts always align with our internal policies and long-term sustainability goals.” She said the committee, known as the “Green Champions”, was established two years ago to drive SACO’s ESG strategy. “Each year, we plan specific projects aligned with awareness days and global environmental themes,” she said. “We not only raise awareness internally through our intranet, but also tie these themes to hands-on initiatives where our team actively gets involved in making a real difference.” This has seen SACO teams getting actively involved, unafraid of getting their hands dirty – with ocean and river clean-ups, tree planting and tending to vegetable gardens established not only at the company’s offices across the country but also within local communities. Impactful projects “We make sure the projects we develop and implement are as impactful and meaningful as possible,” said Kirstein. “Recycling is a major focus for us. We’ve equipped our offices with comprehensive recycling stations. We’ve also implemented a strict ban on plastic and polystyrene products throughout our offices. Everyone at SACO contributes – our teams volunteer their time and energy because they truly believe in the collective impact we can make. As part of The Worldwide Alliance, we’re guided by global best practices and continuously align our initiatives to ensure they’re both meaningful and far-reaching.” The effort, however, extends ESG Going the extra mile for a greener future FN25J0397S beyond the workplace. The company has partnered with a school in the Daveyton community, providing recycling bins and arranging educational talks to teach children about the importance of sustainable practices. “The focus is on initiatives that create lasting value, not just for the individual but the community,” said Kirstein. One such initiative that the company is especially proud of is “Jars of Hope” – a project that invites employees and clients to donate empty glass jars, which are then filled with dried beans, legumes and soup mix. Each jar creates a nutritious meal that can feed a family of four. “The response has been incredible,” said Kirstein. “This year, our goal is to distribute 2 000 jars to those in need.” Vegetable gardens In the same spirit, SACO has introduced vegetable gardens at each of its branches across the country. These gardens are intended to become fully functioning spaces that provide fresh produce for employees and their families. In locations where space is limited, SACO partners with local schools and churches to establish gardens within those communities. As part of its holistic approach to ESG, SACO also places a strong emphasis on employee well-being. Efforts are made to support staff through a dedicated wellness programme, which includes monthly sessions on topics such as mental health, physical wellness and financial literacy. “We believe that sustainability starts with our people,” said Kirstein. “By investing in their well-being, we create a stronger, more resilient workforce.” Alongside social and community impact, SACO is also committed to tracking and improving its environmental performance. This includes monitoring fuel consumption across warehouse machinery and vehicles, as well as maintaining robust recycling practices. LV