The social aspect of ESG

“Sustainable development and ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) are not merely principles within our company that pertain to the environment and climate. Each component of ESG is equally important to us, so we place as much emphasis on social responsibility as we do on corporate governance. This comprehensive approach to responsibility is particularly evident now, during the war in Ukraine,” says Dagmara Janik, Brand Director at 7R.

Caring for the well-being of local communities is a key component of an ESG strategy. Every company operates under specific conditions and must consider its impact on the surrounding community. This has been particularly evident in recent months, as so many companies have joined the effort to help Ukraine and the people who have been forced to flee their country due to the war.

7R has joined initiatives organized by the Polish Red Cross, Pracodawcy RP, and Corporate Connections. In addition, the company’s warehouse in Kielce has become a collection site for humanitarian aid organized by the Świętokrzyskie Provincial Office.

Social engagement

The challenges facing society are closely linked to environmental issues. 7R constructs environmentally friendly warehouse and production facilities while considering how modern technology can help achieve climate neutrality. For this reason, solar panels are increasingly being incorporated into its projects, water management practices are implemented, and flower meadows or additional shrubbery are planted on the surrounding grounds. This is important both for those who work in a given building and for local residents, as 7R buildings blend into the landscape to become an integral part of it.

Our company adapts flexibly to change on a daily basis and remains mindful of our social responsibilities.

“We talk with local residents and local authorities. When needs arise or issues that need to be addressed come up in our investment plans, we listen. When an opportunity arises to help the local community, we act,” explains Dagmara Janik.

For example, during the pandemic, 7R supplied the hospital in Starachowice with a CareBox module to serve as an emergency room for patients suspected of having contracted the coronavirus.

Warehouse culture

After all, a company’s social responsibility can take many forms. For 7R, one of these is to bring the worlds of art and industry together and add an interesting eco-friendly twist.

“We launched our own art promotion initiative—7R Warehouse of Art. As part of this project, we held an exhibition of graphic art inside our warehouse back in 2019. This year, in collaboration with the Academy of Fine Arts in Warsaw, we organized the first edition of a nationwide competition for emerging artists, which also raises awareness of environmental issues,” says the Brand Director at 7R.

A total of 26 entries were submitted to the competition in three different categories: mural, eco-friendly gadget, and ergonomic seat. The theme was the slogan “Technology. Ecology. Man. Coexistence.” The competition jury selected three winners in each category. The winning projects will be implemented in 7R warehouses.

The submitted works demonstrate an excellent understanding of environmental issues and are characterized by original ideas and an expressive artistic style.

“Supporting young artists and promoting environmental education are part of our efforts to address the challenges in the areas of environmental and social responsibility,”adds Dagmara Janik.

This includes, among other things, sponsorship and support for the 7R Rowmix Team, powered by the 72D cycling group (road and MTB), as well as co-organization with the city of Gdynia of the 7R CST MTB Gdynia Marathon.