Alina Oprea • 24 July, 2023 at 5:30 PM
Aquila's total carbon footprint decreased by 6.5%, amounting to 36,837 metric tons of CO2 equivalent (tCO2e), on location-based calculation, according to the sustainability report. The company is the market leader in the field of integrated distribution and logistics services for consumer goods, in Romania and the Republic of Moldova. Aquila achieved significant progress in reducing its carbon footprint and waste in 2022, in line with its sustainability strategy. The emission intensity (based on location) relative to revenues improved by 18.4%, while the one relative to the number of kilometers traveled improved by 4.6%.
The company, with almost 30 years of experience, continues to implement measures to achieve its decarbonization targets set for 2026, a 3% reduction in the carbon footprint of the warehouses and a 20% reduction in the vehicle fleet's carbon footprint. These measures involve increasing energy efficiency, investing in renewable energy sources, and gradually replacing the fleet with low-emission vehicles.
" At Aquila, we prioritize Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, which are firmly embedded in our core values and drive our actions, evident in our Sustainability Strategy which aligns with international standards and best practices in the capital market. Our achievements in reducing the carbon footprint can be attributed to strategic initiatives such as vehicle fleet replacement programs and meticulous optimization of transport routes. Moreover, in line with the sustainability strategy, we have invested in renewable energy sources, with approximately 53% of our electricity consumption derived from eco-friendly sources. We are fully committed to achieving and maintaining high sustainability performance. As we embark on this journey, we will advance our sustainable practices, making a positive global impact”, says Răzvan Bagherea, Director of Organization and Human Resources at Aquila.
The carbon footprint breakdown shows that 67% of emissions are direct (Scope 1), which the company can control, while 33% are indirect (Scope 2 and 3), including those from the value chain, which are more difficult to control. The company's energy consumption decreased by 3.1%, and energy efficiency relative to revenues improved by 15.4%.
Regarding waste management, the Aquila Group reduced the generated waste by 19% through more efficient packaging and handling methods.
In March-April 2023, Aquila conducted a materiality analysis involving both internal and external stakeholders. Through this analysis, 18 material topics were identified, of which 6 were considered to have a significant impact on the company's activities. These topics include data confidentiality, product safety and quality, workplace health and safety, company administration and governance, employee management and administration, and waste management. Consequently, the group will continue to develop and implement measures to address all 18 identified material topics, with a focus on aspects significant for the company and stakeholders.
Aquila transports goods of all temperature categories (ambient, refrigerated, frozen) nationally and internationally to over 20 countries in the EU, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and others. The company concluded the year 2022 with a net profit of €85 million, a 20% annual increase, and revenues of RON2.2 billion (€440 million), growing by 15%. For the year 2023, Aquila has budgeted investments of €12.7 million, including €7.6 million for leasing transportation means.