IMS (QEOHS) POLICY
Issued Date: Dec. 2024
DOC. ID: SEL-MGT-POL-001-R00
Introduction
Sunbeth Energies Limited (SEL) is a wholly owned Nigerian crude oil and petroleum products trading and logistics company that carries on the global business of exploration, production, refining, storage, transportation, marketing, and distribution of oil and gas, petroleum products, and other hydrocarbons
Our vision is to grow as a key player in in the global business of exploration, production, refining, storage, transportation, marketing, and distribution of oil and gas, petroleum products, and other hydrocarbons whilst generating value across our supply chain sustainably.
SEL is dedicated to sustainable and ethical business practices. We recognize that our operations have a significant impact on the environment and society at large. We incorporate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations into all aspects of our operations in Nigeria, adhering to applicable regulations. This Policy therefore outlines our commitment and the steps we take to integrate environmental, social, and governance principles into our business practices to promote sustainability, ethical conduct, and transparency.
1. Environmental Stewardship:
1.1 Overview:
We understand that we have a responsibility to ensure that our operations within the energy industry have a minimal impact on the environment. As good stewards, we are committed to sustainable practices that protect and preserve natural resources for future generations. Our dedication to environmental responsibility is rooted in the belief that a healthy ecosystem is essential for the prosperity of our communities, the quality and reliability of our energy solutions, and the overall well-being of our planet. Consequently, we strive to contribute to global environmental sustainability and ensure the long-term viability of our supply chain.
1.2 Climate Action:
We recognize the urgent need to address climate change and are committed to taking proactive measures to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions and overall carbon footprint. We will conduct regular carbon footprint assessments to determine the key sources of emissions across our operations. These assessments will guide the development of targeted strategies to lower emissions, including investing in renewable energy sources, optimizing fuel efficiency, and integrating low-carbon technologies. Our goal is to align with international climate agreements and national regulations to contribute to the global effort to limit temperature rise and mitigate the impacts of climate change.
1.3 Energy Efficiency and Sustainable Resource Management:
Efficient energy use is at the core of Sunbeth Energies’ operational strategy. We will actively adopt energy-saving technologies at our retail stations, such as LED lighting to reduce our energy consumption. In addition to energy efficiency, we recognize the importance of responsible waste management. Our operations will incorporate recycling programs to minimize waste and ensure that hazardous materials, such as used oil and lubricants, are disposed of in compliance with regulatory standards.
1.4 Environmental Compliance & Biodiversity Conservation
As a responsible corporate citizen, we are fully committed to complying with relevant environmental standards, both local and international. We will uphold stringent environmental protection policies to prevent pollution that could harm local ecosystems.
Furthermore, we recognize the importance of biodiversity and natural resource conservation. As part of our sustainability strategy, we will support reforestation initiatives, partner with conservation organizations, and engage in community-led environmental projects. These initiatives will help counteract the environmental effects of energy production and distribution while promoting a more sustainable future.
2. Social Responsibility
2.1 Overview:
At SEL, social responsibility is fundamental to our corporate ethos. We recognize that people are the cornerstone of our business, and we are committed to nurturing an inclusive and supportive work environment. Our commitment extends beyond our employees to the communities where we conduct our operations, prioritizing their well-being and prosperity. We aim to be a model employer and a reliable partner to these communities, ensuring our activities contribute positively to their development. By investing in education, and community development, we strive to create enduring, positive impacts that benefit our entire supply chain and enhance the socio-economic growth of our host communities.
2.2 Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI):
Our policy prohibits discrimination based on a person’s race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, handicap, and gender. This policy guarantees equal opportunities for all workers in terms of hiring, training, advancement, and pay. Our hiring practices are diverse, and we actively work to promote an inclusive culture through training programs on unconscious bias. Everyone should feel appreciated, respected, and free to share their special talents and viewpoints in the workplace, which is our goal. We keep a close eye on and conduct demographic analyses of our workforce to spot and close any possible gaps in inclusion and diversity.
2.3 Compensation and Benefits:
We recognize that attracting and retaining top talent begins with creating safe, motivating workplaces where employees feel appreciated. To this end, we provide competitive compensation and benefits to all our full-time employees. This includes paid annual leave, sick leave, pension contributions and comprehensive health insurance.
2.4 Health and Safety
We prioritize the health and safety of everyone involved in our operations. We maintain stringent health and safety standards to ensure a safe working environment for all. We adhere to robust health and safety protocols tailored to the peculiarities of our business. These standards are continuously updated to reflect industry best practices and regulatory requirements. We also invest in the continuous education of our workforce through regular seminars and safety training for employees.
2.5 Social Investments
We are committed to social investment, recognizing the pivotal role our company plays in fostering sustainable development in the communities where we operate. Our social investment initiatives are focused on creating lasting, positive impacts through strategic programs and partnerships. We will prioritize projects in education, healthcare, and community infrastructure to improve the quality of life for local residents. By investing in educational programs, we aim to empower future generations with the skills and knowledge needed for personal and professional growth. With our healthcare initiatives, we will seek to enhance access to medical services and promote overall well-being. Additionally, we will support the development of critical community infrastructure, such as clean water and sanitation facilities, to ensure a better standard of living.
2.6 Customer & Supplier Responsibility
As part of our commitment to responsible business practices, we will maintain the highest standards of customer service, product safety, and fair pricing. We recognize that our suppliers play a critical role in our sustainability journey, and as such, we will prioritize working with partners who adhere to ethical, social, and environmental standards. Our procurement processes will integrate ESG criteria to ensure that sustainability is a fundamental consideration in supplier selection and engagement.
3. Governance Integrity
3.1 Overview:
At SEL, we recognize that good governance is fundamental to enhancing value for our shareholders and stakeholders alike. We uphold a strong governance framework that places a high value on accountability, openness, and moral behaviour.
3.2 Corporate Governance:
At SEL, we understand the vital importance of robust corporate governance practices in ensuring our long-term success. This is why our governance framework is anchored in Nigeria’s 2018 Code of Corporate Governance, which provides a comprehensive set of principles, processes, and practices. We are committed to fully complying with the Code and purposefully integrating its provisions into our governance framework. Also, in compliance with global best practices, we keep clear, accurate financial records and to guarantee the accuracy of our financial reporting, we regularly audit our records.
3,3 Data Privacy and Security:
At SEL, we prioritize data privacy and security. We abide by all applicable data protection laws, such as the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation (NDPR). This guarantees that we handle personal data in a lawful and ethical manner. We put in place the proper organizational and technical safeguards to guard against unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, and destruction of personal data. We inform people in a clear and open manner about the ways in which their data is gathered, utilized, and preserved. We also honour people’s rights to view, update, or remove their personal information.
3.4 Whistleblowing:
SEL keeps a confidential whistle-blower hotline open for staff members and other interested parties to report any suspected misconduct or policy violations. We value open communication and consider any issues that are brought to our attention.
3.5 Codes of Conduct:
We enforce an internal code of conduct that guides our employees in maintaining high ethical standards. Additionally, our supplier code of conduct ensures that our partners align with our values and adhere to responsible business practices.
3.6 Reporting and Review
Transparency and responsibility in SEL’s performance are priorities. Our efforts to meet our ESG objectives are constantly tracked and reported on.
3.7 Reporting:
Our policy is subject to periodic review and updating to align with evolving business needs, regulatory frameworks, and optimal ESG practices.
As required by stakeholders and industry norms, we monitor and report on important ESG metrics. A few examples of these metrics are energy use, waste production, diversity among employees, involvement in the community, and ethical sourcing.
Our annual ESG report will provide a clear and concise overview of our accomplishments, difficulties, and future goals. In addition to being distributed to pertinent parties, this report will be made publicly accessible on our website.
3.8 Review:
SEL regularly evaluates its ESG performance overall as well as the efficacy of this policy internally. This could entail benchmarking against top industry players, data analysis, and employee surveys.
We adjust our ESG strategy and practices as needed, identifying areas for improvement considering the review’s findings.
Our goal is to lead sustainable business practices in Nigeria, and we are dedicated to ever improving ourselves.
3.9 Responsibilities
SEL promotes a shared accountability culture to integrate ESG.
Employees: It is the duty of every SEL employee to comprehend and abide by this policy in the course of their work. This entails being conscious of our ESG obligations and goals and incorporating them into decision-making procedures wherever practical. Employee involvement in ESG projects, reporting of any possible social or environmental issues, and recommendations for enhancing our ESG performance are all encouraged.
Management: The management of SEL oversees carrying out this policy and assessing its efficacy. Setting specific ESG objectives, assigning funds, and giving staff members continuous instruction and direction on ESG best practices are all part of this. In addition, management oversees maintaining open lines of communication and responding to any employee concerns about ESG practices.
Board of Directors: SEL’s ESG performance is ultimately under the control of the Board of Directors. This entails monitoring progress reports, approving ESG policies and objectives, and providing strategic direction and oversight for ESG initiatives. The Board is also in charge of making sure SEL complies with all applicable Nigerian legal requirements, such as those pertaining to corporate governance, social responsibility, and the environment.
Conclusion
Strong ESG performance, in the opinion of SEL, is crucial for long-term corporate success as well as a just and healthy environment. With respect to the Nigerian regulatory framework, this policy shows our dedication to incorporating ESG factors into our fundamental decision-making and operations. To create a more sustainable future, we work with stakeholders to be a leader in sustainable business practices and are dedicated to constant improvement.
Any stakeholder who has questions about this policy or requires further information about ESG should contact sustainability.sgc@sunbeth.net