Our Journey » 2006

Winner of the ECO prize from the American Chamber of Commerce in Brazil for our collective efforts towards our ongoing Personæ Project which was launched in 2004 to address safety and health risks throughout the company.

Obtained ISO 14001 certification for the construction works at both developments completed in 2006 and eight more operational shopping centres.

Third place in the Euronatura Climate Responsibility ranking, which evaluates the ability of participating companies across different sectors, operating in Portugal, to manage and adapt to future climate change.

Our mission statement refers to Corporate Responsibility for the first time as our environmental and social awareness grows.

CR Steering Group and CR Working Groups established for all key CR impacts. The Working Groups consist of representatives across Sonae Sierra who are responsible for driving performance in their area of corporate responsibility. The heads of the Working Groups are represented on the CR Steering Committee, which is chaired by the CEO and oversees the company's CR Strategy and its delivery.

Published our first CR report to comply with the Global Reporting Initiative's Guidelines, following a recommendation from a major shareholder. We attained level C⁺ as verified by external auditor Deloitte.

Review of significant CR issues performed to allow us to develop a more focused CR strategy, built around the nine material CR impact areas.

Sustainable Development training programme (Chronos - WBCSD tool) launched for all employees across the business.

Developed a long-term carbon management plan to reduce our Greenhouse Gas emissions.

Created a volunteer programme for staff to participate in social activities.

Introduced road safety and eco-driving training for our staff. Training was provided by firemen, police and medical staff and aimed to raise environmental and safety awareness among personnel who drive regularly.