Top Glove has released its Sustainability Policy guide with a focus on environmental, social, governance, traceability and emphasis on ethical and responsible sourcing that will apply to all subsidiaries, joint ventures, and supply chain partners.
The world’s largest glove maker said the policy was developed in consultation with a variety of stakeholders, including investors, non-governmental organisations, and analysts, and is aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Mr. Lim Cheong Guan, Top Glove’s Executive Director, says, “As a responsible corporate citizen, we recognise that our business has an impact on the environment, our employees, and the communities we serve. We are committed to being a sustainability leader in the healthcare manufacturing sector and contributing to a better future for all our stakeholders.”
Three strategic themes are outlined in the Policy: ‘Tackling Climate Change and Restoring Nature’; ‘Being a People-Centric Corporate Citizen’; and ‘Creating Long Term Value Through Ethical Business Practices and Continuous Stakeholder Engagement’.
In addition to supporting ‘No Deforestation’ and ‘Protection of Peatlands’, Top Glove respects and supports international human rights principles, and upholds high ethical standards. The Group is in its policy is also committed to setting a Net Zero Carbon target year by FY 2025 and aims to achieve 70 percent traceability to plantations of natural rubber sourcing. Traceability enables the identification of critical areas with high conservation value and high carbon stocks, as well as social issues and conflicts.
“Our commitment to ESG practices has always been strong. However, with an aim to go from good to great, the Sustainability Roadmap of the Policy outlines steps and measurable targets up to FY 2025, starting with FY 2021 as a baseline. At Top Glove, we have the Board Sustainability Committee, led by our Senior Independent Director, which oversees the company’s sustainability strategy,” concludes Mr. Lim.
Ms. Sharmila Sekarajasekaran, Top Glove Senior Independent Non-Executive Director, and the Chairman of the Board Sustainability Committee, adds: “We are steadfast in our duty toward bettering the communities we serve. This Policy, reflecting our commitment to take on a lead role in the sustainability spectrum, marks another milestone in the Group’s efforts to positively contribute to a viable future for all.”
Dr. Henry Chan, Conservation Director of WWF-Malaysia, states, “It is pleasing to note that Top Glove’s Sustainability Policy pledges to strengthen its sustainability goals and initiatives over the next few years. It is in line with Malaysia’s commitment to achieving its sustainability goals, including becoming a carbon-neutral nation by 2050. In our opinion, this is a good start on their journey, and we encourage more companies to follow suit.”
