Fortum joined Bettercoal initiative promoting improvements in coal mining
PRESS RELEASE 23 April 2012
Fortum has joined the Bettercoal initiative, an independent, non-profit organisation promoting continuous improvement of corporate responsibility in the coal supply chain. The formal establishment of the Bettercoal was announced on 18 April. The initiative has been set up by its founding members DONG Energy, EDF, Enel, E.On, GDF SUEZ, RWE and Vattenfall. Fortum is the first new member and the only Finnish utility to join the initiative.
"Sustainability of fuel procurement and especially sourcing of fossil fuels and biomass has become a topic of concern. Coal mining can be challenging in terms of environmental protection and can create occupational health and safety concerns, and therefore industry wide dialogue and actions are required to address issues systematically. Sustainability is an integral part of Fortum’s supply chain management. We are actively participating in industry and stakeholder dialogues on responsible fuel sourcing", says Ulla Rehell, Vice President, Sustainability, Fortum.
“Our members are keenly aware of the potential negative impact of mining activities. We need greater assurance that our coal is coming from mines that are taking a responsible approach to protecting workers, communities and their local environment. This is why we have established Bettercoal”, says Joachim Löchte, Chair of the Bettercoal Board of Directors.
The basis of the work of Bettercoal initiative is the Bettercoal Code that will build upon existing standards applied to mining, setting out the social, environmental and ethical standards that coal mining companies are expected to align with. Over time Bettercoal also expects to develop appropriate tools, training and capacity building activities to further support suppliers. Bettercoal is working through engagement with its stakeholders, including mining companies and operators.
Fortum’s long-term aspiration is to be a carbon dioxide-free power and heat company. In 2011, 65% of Fortum’s total electricity production and 85% of the company’s electricity production in the EU was CO2-free.
Fortum Corporation
Corporate Communications
Further information:
Ulla Rehell, Vice President, Sustainability, Fortum, tel. +358 10 45 29251, ulla.rehell@fortum.com
Pirjetta Soikkeli, Vice President, Internal and Sustainability Communications, Fortum, tel. +358 10 453 2240, pirjetta.soikkeli@fortum.com
Fortum
Fortum's purpose is to create energy that improves life for present and future generations. We provide sustainable solutions that fulfil the needs for low emissions, resource efficiency and energy security, and deliver excellent value to our shareholders. Our activities cover the generation, distribution and sales of electricity and heat as well as related expert services.
Fortum's operations focus on the Nordic countries, Russia, Poland and the Baltics. In the future, the integrating European and fast-growing Asian energy markets provide additional growth opportunities. In 2011, Fortum’s sales totalled EUR 6.2 billion and comparable operating profit was EUR 1.8 billion. We employ approximately 10,800 people. Fortum’s shares are quoted on NASDAQ OMX Helsinki.
Further information: www.fortum.com