Sustainability Report 2022 published

R&M, the globally active developer and provider of high-end infrastructure solutions for data and communications networks, based in Wetzikon, Switzerland, is presenting its first CO₂ balance sheet. It is part of the eighth Corporate Social and Environmental Responsibility Report (CSER), which R&M has just published. Through energy-saving measures, R&M has reduced the energy consumption of its own plants by 12% since 2021. During the same period, operational CO₂ emissions fell by six percent to 1,500 tonnes per year. 

R&M determined the values according to scientific guidelines and on the basis of recognized equivalence data. R&M was supported in its efforts by the myclimate Foundation in Zurich. Data collection for sound CO₂ accounting should be cultivated to be able to estimate upstream and downstream emissions. R&M wants to halve its operational greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. 

First R&M forest grows in India

CEO Michel Riva

«Our sustainability strategy is motivating. It has caught the interest of the entire corporate group,» reported R&M CEO Michel Riva on the occasion of the publication of the CSER Report. For example, this motivation led the Indian subsidiary to donate the first R&M forest with over 1,500 trees in 2022. The afforestation project provides farmers with a livelihood and serves as CO₂ compensation. 

The family-owned company has significantly expanded its sustainability strategy since 2021. R&M joined the UN Global Compact last year. For the four areas of action environment, social aspects, ethics, and the supply chain, 26 benchmarks were introduced to make progress visible. Almost all 14 plants work with a standardized and certified environmental management system. 

In the CSER Report, R&M also provides information on developments in the social field. Just like climate protection, this is one of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to which R&M is committed. 

For example, R&M is working hard to ensure that the plants demonstrably meet international standards for a healthy and safe working environment. Two-thirds of the plants have already passed corresponding certifications. CEO Michel Riva continues: «In particular, we want to empower and encourage women to take on leadership and expert roles.» R&M has filled 40 % of management positions with women. 

Last August, R&M achieved silver in the global sustainability ranking of the agency EcoVadis. R&M is aiming for gold in the future.