Sustainability is in our DNA
TVH’s unstoppable journey towards sustainability
Sustainability has always been a core value for TVH. In 2021, we took our vision one step further and made it a building block of our company strategy. This decision was motivated by our respect for people, the planet, and the growing challenges we face. With over 5,000 colleagues worldwide, TVH is an important global player. As a sizable business partner and employer, we understand we have a significant and lasting impact on communities and the environment.
“Sustainability is more than a fashionable word,” explains Daniel Rossi (Director of Sustainability). “It’s a mindset ingrained in the very fabric of our business model and a vision for everything we do.”
Our journey is ongoing, and our actions drive long-term changes. Changes that benefit us and our surroundings. We want to be ahead of the curve in a world in perpetual transition so we can change, adapt and improve our processes to have a lasting social impact.
“To achieve meaningful results, we have aligned our strategy according to TVH’s four Sustainability Pillars,“ Daniel continues. “They are the foundation for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, keeping our people safe and happy, doing business in an ethical way and making sure we have an impact across the entire value chain.”
Carbon Footprint Reduction
“To make a change, we must reduce greenhouse gasses,” says Daniel. “Think of remanufacturing or investments in markets such as solar inverters and electric vehicle chargers … But that’s not enough. We can and will do more; for example, we are limiting waste as much as possible. Reducing packaging is also a big focus point. Additionally, we are investing in electric cars and optimising transport to be as sustainable as possible.”
‘We have a clear goal for our emissions: By 2030, we want to emit 57% less CO2 than we did last year,” highlights Bram Lannoo (Director of Real Estate, Facilities and Indirect Spend). “We invest in solar panels, move towards green energy, and make our buildings as energy-efficient as possible.”
“But reducing global warming is one goal,” he continues. “Being resilient against changing weather patterns is another. We’re facing heat waves, drought and storms. TVH makes sure we can stand those tests of nature.”
Employee Wellbeing
“The environment is important, but so are our employees.” Peter Geiregat (Chief People Officer) puts people at the heart of the organisation: “To realise sustainability, it’s also important to keep their professional skills relevant. TVH University holds great potential in this regard. We also provide a good work-life balance. And let’s not forget other important topics such as health & safety and DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion).”
Business Conduct
Kurt Wellens (Head of Assurance) compares doing business with professional sports: “As with sports, when doing business, there’s a playing field with lines, agreements and rules that everyone must follow. Through our Code of Conduct, we have set clear guidelines for everyone to behave ethically. That is why we will not accept corruption, bribery or child labour.”
A Sustainable Value Chain
“That’s all great,” says AJ Sidhu (Director of Product & Procurement),” but we can’t do all this alone. We’re only one part of the value chain. To make a difference, everyone has to put in some effort. That’s why TVH expects business partners to be real sustainability partners. Together, we’ll look to reduce our collective carbon footprint. Partners must also have the same ethical standards, respect health & safety and human rights in their day-to-day operations. We build these relationships and together find a brighter future.”
Time for Action
“It’s time for action,” Daniel concludes. “We need to do this now. Because now, more than ever, sustainability is everybody’s business.” TVH’s sustainability journey is ongoing, and we’re proud to drive long-term change for our people, business partners, and the planet.