Sustainability at the Core: SUUS Implements its First ESG Strategy and Validated Science-based Emissions Reduction Targets by the SBTi
Rohlig SUUS Logistics is implementing its first ESG strategy, directly aligned with its business approach. The company places a strong emphasis on credibility in its operations. As such, its near-term science-based emissions reduction targets, as outlined in the document, have been approved by the Science Based Targets initiative. This achievement signifies that the largest Polish logistics operator has joined the narrow group of Polish companies whose ambitions are classified as aligned with the trajectory aimed at limiting the global temperature rise to 1.5°C.
With the commencement of the new fiscal year on April 1, 2024, SUUS has initiated the implementation of its first ESG strategy, which outlines the company's roadmap for development from 2024 to 2026. The document is structured around three pillars: "Climate Credibility", "Social Empowerment" and "Logistics of Value". Under the first one, SUUS focuses on both near-term decarbonization targets, as mentioned earlier, and circular economy. The second aspect encompasses activities for employees, drivers and transport partners, as well as programs to support local communities. The last one is dedicated to addressing initiatives to operate ethically, report transparently and work with business partners for sustainable development.
Piotr Iwo Chmielewski, Board Member at Rohlig SUUS Logistics, emphasizes, "We view sustainable development as an intrinsic component of our business, rather than a foreign addition to our daily operations. Therefore, our ESG strategy derives directly from the business one, and the next step is to merge these two documents into one roadmap. Some of the priorities we have set for ourselves are the continuation or expansion of previous activities, including the social aspect. Our strategy goal is still to be the first-choice employer in the TSL industry".
As part of the strategy development process, extensive market research and analysis of the business environment were conducted. Additionally, numerous interviews and workshops were also held with employees to understand what sustainability means to them and where they see the company in a few years' time. By involving stakeholders in the strategy development process, it was possible not only to develop tailor-made solutions, but also to diagnose the potential risks and opportunities that might arise in the future.
Piotr Iwo Chmielewski says, "As a family-owned company, we understand that building a business for generations is akin to running a marathon, not a sprint. It's crucial to set realistic, achievable near-term goals to finish this long-distance race. This philosophy underpins our approach to ESG, including climate credibility. Hence, we've opted to subject our near-term emission reduction targets to scrutiny through an SBTi audit. It's immensely gratifying to see SUUS join this select group of companies that set science-based priorities. As the largest Polish logistics operator, we recognize the immense responsibility on our shoulders and aspire to lead the charge in green transformation. We are focused on One Step Ahead on the sustainability journey."
Rohlig SUUS Logistics has committed to reduce their own GHG emissions by 42% by 2030 from a 2022 base year (scope 1 and 2), which includes switching to renewable energy, increasing energy efficiency and replacing the company car fleet, among other factors. Additionally, within scope 3 emissions, the Polish operator has pledged that by 2028, 71% of its transport partners will adopt science-based targets, furthering the collective effort towards sustainability.
Magdalena Lejman, Head of PR & ESG at Rohlig SUUS Logistics, emphasizes, "Logistics is a system of interconnected vessels, which is emphatically observed in sustainable development issues. That is why we are betting on reducing our own emissions, and we are looking for business partners - customers and carriers, shipowners or airlines, who are prepared to commit to a long-term and stable partnership". She continues: "At SUUS, we find ESG not only as a challenge, but also as an opportunity to develop new business solutions. Green options in logistics not only contribute to reducing the carbon footprint, but also to lowering costs and increasing business efficiency".
SUUS' ESG strategy and membership in the SBTi are not the only sustainable activities the Polish company engages in. The operator has published two non-financial reports in recent years, although reporting will be mandatory from 2025. A significant proportion of SUUS warehouses have received BREEAM certification, confirming that the projects align with sustainable development principles and that the buildings are worker- and environmentally-friendly. All new sites feature photovoltaic panels, skylights, and intelligent lighting control systems, as well as flower meadows. In addition, EXPERT, part of the SUUS Group, is using electric vans for the last-mile delivery of bulky and heavy goods such as furniture and household appliances. The largest Polish operator is also testing the use of an electric truck in FTL (full truckload) domestic transport and expanding its services in intermodal freight.
Developing an ESG strategy necessitates extensive industry knowledge, trend analysis, and market intelligence. SUUS is aided in this multi-step process by consulting firm Deloitte.
Marta Karwacka, Senior Manager, Sustainability Consulting Central Europe, Deloitte, says, "As advisors supporting our customers in a strategic approach to sustainable development, we see a tremendous interest among companies in integrating ESG into their operational practices and increasingly into their business models as well. Our customers often attribute this shift primarily to regulations, and there is certainly truth in that. However, it's also worth recognizing that a strategic approach to ESG is associated with risk mitigation as well as uncovering new market opportunities. The benefits of modifying offerings for customers, efficient resource management, and above all, strategic, consistent, and multidimensional coordination of actions aimed at minimizing negative impacts on social and environmental issues, are increasingly tied to the growing competitiveness of those companies that genuinely embrace ESG and aim to develop sustainably".