Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Policy

Purpose

Niveus is committed to integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into its operations and decision-making processes. This policy outlines our dedication to sustainability, social responsibility, and ethical governance, ensuring that we contribute positively to our stakeholders, society, and the environment.

Scope

This policy applies to all employees, contractors, suppliers, and stakeholders involved in or impacted by Niveus’ operations. It covers environmental management, social responsibility, and governance frameworks across the company’s activities.

Approach

Our approach to ESG is guided by our core values: 

• Integrity
• Customer success
• Innovation
• Empathy
• Sustainability

and the principles outlined in the National Guidelines on Responsible Business Conduct,

1. Business should conduct and govern themselves with Ethics, Transparency and Accountability
2. Businesses should provide goods and services that are safe and contribute to sustainability throughout their life cycle
3. Businesses should promote the wellbeing of all employees
4. Businesses should respect the interests of, and be responsive towards all stakeholders, especially those who are disadvantaged, vulnerable and marginalised
5. Businesses should respect and promote human rights
6. Business should respect, protect, and make efforts to restore the environment
7. Businesses, when engaged in influencing public and regulatory policy, should do so in a responsible manner 
8. Businesses should support inclusive growth and equitable development 
9. Businesses should engage with and provide value to their customers and consumers in a responsible manner

Environmental Commitment

We recognize the importance of minimising our environmental impact and commit to sustainable practices. Our environmental strategy focuses on:

1. Waste Management: Responsible handling of all waste, including the leasing of IT assets and disposal of e-waste through authorised vendors.
   
2. Resource Efficiency: Reducing energy, water, and material consumption. Efforts include implementing energy-efficient technologies and limiting paper use
3. Carbon Footprint Reduction: Supporting hybrid work models to reduce commuting, operating in Tier 2 cities, and maintaining energy-efficient office spaces.
4. Sustainability in Procurement: Ensuring suppliers adhere to sustainability standards aligned with our code of business conduct and ESG principles.

Social Commitment

Niveus strives to foster a socially responsible and inclusive environment. Key areas of focus include:

1. Employee Well-being: Promoting flexible work arrangements, including remote work options, to enhance work-life balance. Conducting employee wellness programs in collaboration with a health & wellness partner
2. Diversity and Inclusion: Encouraging a workplace culture that values diversity, inclusivity, and equal opportunities for all employees.
3. Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH): Conducting regular training and awareness programs to ensure a safe and respectful workplace free from sexual harassment. Enforcing strict adherence to POSH policy, aligned with legal requirements and best practices.
4. Fire Safety and Emergency Preparedness: Providing regular fire safety training to all employees, conducting periodic drills, and ensuring compliance with local fire safety regulations to maintain a safe and secure working environment across all offices.
5. Community Engagement: Supporting initiatives that benefit local communities, especially in Tier 2 cities where we operate.
6. Supply Chain Responsibility: Ensuring that suppliers adhere to our Code of Conduct, which covers ethical business practices, labour standards, and human rights.
7. Employee Development and Training: Providing access to courses on upskilling and reskilling in IT, leadership development, and soft skills, both in-house and through external platforms. Promoting a culture of continuous learning.

Governance Commitment 

Strong governance is fundamental to our operations and long-term success. We are committed to:

1. Ethical Leadership: Upholding the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability in all business dealings.
2. Compliance and Risk Management: Ensuring compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and industry standards, including implemented ISO standards
3. Stakeholder Engagement: Regularly engaging with our stakeholders (employees, customers, suppliers, and the community) to address their concerns and incorporate their feedback into our governance structures.
4. Data Privacy and Security: Maintaining robust data protection practices in line with our ISO 27001 certifications and customer privacy expectations.
5. Transparent Financial Reporting and Accountability: Recording and reporting of Financial information will be done honestly and accurately in order to make responsible business decisions and to comply with applicable statutory and regulatory requirements.
6. Anti-Bribery and Corruption (ABC) Measures: Niveus takes a strong stance against corruption and bribery consistent with the anti-bribery and anti-corruption laws that exist. We demand the same from our business partners, agents, representatives and other individuals or companies that may act on behalf of Niveus.
7. Whistleblower Protection: Niveus Employee, contractor, supplier or otherwise a member of Niveus family is encouraged to promptly report any practices or actions that they believe to be inappropriate and in violation of Niveus Code of Business Conduct.

Governance of the ESG initiatives

ESG Committee Formation:

• An ESG Committee will be formed with representatives from the Operations, People Operations, and Compliance teams, with guidance and oversight from members of the Board, as sponsors.
• The ESG Committee will be responsible for overseeing the development, execution, and alignment of ESG initiatives with the company’s strategic objectives.

Monitoring and Review:

• Key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure our ESG initiatives will be established and the Compliance team will be tasked with regularly monitoring and reviewing the progress of all ESG initiatives. This will include ensuring that the targets are met and that any challenges are addressed in a timely manner.
• Quarterly reports on the status of ESG initiatives will be presented to the Leadership sponsors to facilitate informed decision-making and alignment with company-wide goals.

ESG Reporting:

An annual report will be published to provide transparency on the company’s sustainability efforts, social impact, and governance practices. This ESG report will be made available to all stakeholders, including employees, customers, and partners.

Employee Responsibility:

All employees are expected to adhere to this ESG policy and actively contribute to the achievement of our ESG goals through their daily activities and decision-making. Their participation is critical to fostering a culture of sustainability and accountability across the organisation.