What DP World’s SDID Means for Brazil, Senegal & S Africa
DP World is seeking to spread its sustainability influence by adding three more countries to its landmark Sustainable Development Impact Disclosure.
The global supply chain giant became the first company to adopt and disclose its development impact in countries of focus, when it reported on India and Somaliland.
Now it has added Brazil, Senegal and South Africa.
A ‘new industry standard for transparency’
The move to adopt and disclose its impact in countries of focus is in accordance with guidance from the Impact Disclosure Taskforce.
DP World Group Chairman & CEO Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem said in the foreword to the SDID report: “Our commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 through electrification and renewable energy investments reflects our broader vision of sustainability, which goes beyond decarbonisation.
“It includes protecting marine ecosystems, preserving biodiversity and promoting climate resilience as integral elements of our strategy.
“It is about fostering inclusive growth, enhancing trade flows, and creating a positive impact for the communities we serve.”
He added: “The SDID measures our contributions to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and bridging development gaps in key emerging economies globally, where we operate, such as South America, Sub-Saharan Africa and the Indian Subcontinent.
“By introducing this disclosure, we aim to set a new industry standard for transparency and accountability, enabling global capital markets to make informed decisions based on reliable, publicly disclosed information.”
The Sultan also encouraged other organisations to adopt and disclose their development impact through the SDID reporting framework.
Projects and promises
The SDID outlines the work that DP World has done so far in the countries – and sets down some promises.
BRAZIL
“To date, we have contributed approximately US$409m in investment across our operations at the Port of Santos and have helped generate more than 2,000 direct and 5,000 indirect jobs. In addition, we are collaborating with Brazilian railway operator, Rumo, to build a new terminal at the Port of Santos.
“Our operations have aimed to optimise yard and planning container logistics, streamline cargo management to reduce port call times and make commitments to the electrification of port operations.
“This includes a project to electrify 22 diesel fuelled units by the end of 2024, with an investment of over US$409,800 to reduce the terminal’s diesel consumption by up to 60%.
SENEGAL
“We are committed to contributing to Senegal’s sustainable development and helping the country further cement itself as the region's premier trade enabler.
“In 2020, we signed a concession agreement with the Senegalese Government to build and operate a new port facility in Ndayane, 50km from Dakar.
“We are investing over US$1bn in the construction of the Port of Ndayane, over two phases. This is our largest ever investment in an African port and will be the largest single private investment in Senegal’s history.
“The new port will reinforce Senegal’s position, adding to its complement of competitive, quality services and smart end-to-end trade solutions. In addition, we plan to develop an economic and industrial zone adjacent to the Port of Ndayane.”
SOUTH AFRICA
“Given our established presence in South Africa we recognise our responsibility to provide holistic development opportunities across other key markets in Sub-Saharan Africa as well.
“This means coupling our ambition to deliver positive environmental and social outcomes across the country, with a commitment to leveraging lessons learned and improving trade services across the continent.
“To this end, beyond the investment in the modernisation of logistics infrastructure, we have negotiated a multi-product, multi-jurisdiction and multi-currency US$356.1m facility agreement with Standard Bank.”
Uplifting communities and driving growth
DP World’s Chief Sustainability Officer Maha AlQattan said the company aims to “deliver positive social impact”.
She said: “I’m excited to see this framework grow, offering real-world data on our contributions toward the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at a time when the UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) estimates a USD$4tn annual financing gap for emerging markets and developing economies (EMDE) in achieving these targets.”
Maha added: “The SDID allows us to demonstrate how we are enhancing trade resilience and delivering positive social impact in the communities in which we operate.
“By investing strategically in these economies, we’re paving the way for a sustainable future that uplifts communities and drives growth.
This journey is one that requires collective dedication. Let’s shape a path forward – one that embraces transparency, empowers people and fuels lasting change.”
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