Boskalis CSR report 2017

CSR 2017 – BOSKALIS 19

SOCIAL IMPACT PROGRAM Consideration for the environment is a feature deeply embedded in our organization and something that we take into account right from the initial design of a project. As macro trends – such as an increase in global trade, population growth and climate change – are driving growth in all our divisions, our dredging and inland infrastructural activities in particular can have a social impact. A practical and effective social impact approach is increasingly becoming a license to operate. We aim to promote positive contributions to economic, environmental and social progress wherever we operate. The impact of our projects is mostly positive at macro level, enhancing the safety and prosperity of the surrounding area. However, at micro level – at the site of the actual intervention – specific social impacts may be negative, if no measures are taken. We seek to avoid potential adverse impacts resulting from our activities, and otherwise to mitigate or remedy these. We exercise our leverage to bring change if we are in a position to influence the entity responsible for the impact. However, our influence can be limited depending on the business relationship. For example, we have more influence over suppliers than over clients. In view of the fact that each of our projects is unique, a tailor-made approach is required to address environmental and social risks, while also taking into account international CSR frameworks and guidelines.

The Social Impact Program that was launched in 2016, aims to set out a social impact approach that gives this aspect of our activities a firm foothold within our organization. The program has three objectives: ‚ ‚ To increase in-company awareness of our social impact and of the international frameworks that define social impact standards. ‚ ‚ To develop a standard evaluation mechanism in the tender phase to identify projects that have a potential higher risk profile. ‚ ‚ Consistent application of our social impact principles and procedures on projects. The program is based on the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises, the IFC Performance Standards, the Boskalis General Code of Business Conduct and the Boskalis Supplier Code of Conduct. By creating social impact awareness throughout Boskalis, this topic is embedded in tendering processes and project execution. As social impact differs for each project, we must define our role and the corresponding level of responsibility we have. For this reason, our methodology must be applicable for a wide range of project profiles, our company specific approach, local requirements and client interests and not just be based on a generic regulatory framework.