05 Jun, 2016
UAE-based conglomerate S.S. Lootah Group moves to the next level of its sustainable procurement strategy, where it aims to reach out to all external stakeholders to adopt sustainable practices. This comes as part of the Group’s ‘Green Procurement Program’, a distinct policy to conserve resources, reduce emissions and create environmental and economic value. The first phase of the strategy was applied internally across all the Group subsidiaries.
The second level will be implemented in collaboration with international specialists in sustainable procurement and logistics from Germany and Canada. A comprehensive survey of vendors will be undertaken to determine the materials used, manufacturing processes, supply chain and storage. It will also focus on identifying best practices and initiatives carried out by international companies, to achieve the desired balance between economic feasibility, tangible profits and environmental benefits. Further, training will be provided to raise awareness among staff towards their responsibilities in this regard.
Eng. Yahya Lootah, CEO of S.S. Lootah Group commented, “The strategic role of the government in developing environmental regulations is commendable. These policies bind the producers and suppliers towards a common vision in-line with the nation’s leadership to adopt rational energy use and efficient business processes. We believe this can be achieved if the business community comes together and collectively adheres to a sustainable procurement policy.”
Sustainable products currently procured by the Group include recycled paper, recycled plastic, energy and water efficient products, alternate fuel, and more. The Group has converted part of its fleet to compressed natural gas in addition to electric and hybrid vehicles.
“The world is watching us more closely than ever after Abu Dhabi became the headquarters of International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).This increases the responsibility of the private sector to cooperate towards creating a sustainable economy through best procurement practices”, added Eng. Yahya Lootah.
The Group has been pursuing an active procurement program with members of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Est. for SME Development (MBRE) for which it was recognised with the ‘Mohammed Bin Rashid Award for Young Business Leaders’.
