SEKO Logistics Releases Inaugural ESG Report, Showcasing Strong Commitment to Sustainability and Social Responsibility

In a decisive move towards strengthening its commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, SEKO Logistics (SEKO), a global leader in end-to-end logistics solutions, has unveiled its inaugural ESG report. The release of this comprehensive report marks a significant milestone following SEKO’s journey in pursuit of ESG goals, underlining the company’s dedication to responsible practices across its operations and global footprint.

Guiding the Path Ahead: SEKO’s ESG Roadmap

SEKO’s ESG report is poised to serve as a pivotal guide for SEKO’s future endeavors, shaping the company’s decisions and actions concerning employee welfare, community engagement, and environmentally conscious business practices. By aligning their strategies with ESG principles, SEKO is set to establish a higher standard of operation, cementing its position as a responsible steward of the environment in every region it operates.

SEKO began in 1976, operating out of a single office in Chicago. Since, the company has grown to over 150 offices across 60 countries worldwide, delivering sustainable client-first service, expert reliability and tech-driven shipping solutions that turn supply chains into a competitive differentiator. SEKO’s commitment to giving back through the logistics industry further supports its customers and the people they support and serve. Without people, there is no progress in sustainability, and SEKO is committed to supporting its people throughout every area of its business.

Precision and Progress: ESG Goals in the Limelight

Throughout 2023, SEKO Logistics has been working to reinforce its ESG leadership position by finalizing key initiatives, including the development of precise carbon calculation tools, conducting facility energy audits, and engaging in thorough vendor assessments. These strategic moves are anticipated to not only enhance SEKO’s sustainability credentials but also set a benchmark for other industry players to follow.

Milestones in Action: SEKO’s ESG Achievements

Over the past year, SEKO’s SEKO CARES program has yielded remarkable progress in the realm of ESG. The company’s pioneering efforts, which began as a response to the global uncertainty and unrest caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, encompass an array of achievements, notably:

  • Relocation to Sustainable Headquarters: SEKO’s global headquarters transitioned to a state-of-the-art building in Schaumburg, Ill., boasting prestigious certifications like LEED Gold, ENERGY STAR, BOMA 360, and WiredScore Gold. This move underscores SEKO’s future facility strategy and commitment to reducing its environmental footprint.
  • Humanitarian Aid Efforts: Collaborating with global humanitarian organizations, Airlink and Project C.U.R.E, SEKO facilitated the donation and shipment of 914 tons of aid through 140 shipments, benefitting 2.2 million individuals across conflict-ridden regions such as Ukraine, Türkiye, and Syria. SEKO leveraged its assets, coordinating airline partners, trucking companies, destination handling companies and numerous other parts of the complex supply chain puzzle, to make the difference in delivering aid in often difficult circumstances.
  • Empowering Women in Logistics (W.I.L.L.): In 2023, SEKO established the Women in Logistics Leadership (W.I.L.L.) employee resource group, signifying the company’s pledge to empower women within the organization and foster their growth both professionally and personally.

SEKO has also taken a significant step in reducing its carbon emissions by engaging with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), a collaboration involving leading organizations like Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP), the United Nations Global Compact, World Resources Institute (WRI), and World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). As part of the We Mean Business Coalition commitments, SEKO’s climate objectives are aligning with the latest scientific data to establish precise emission reduction goals, driving the company towards its ultimate aim of carbon neutrality by 2050 and acknowledging the critical role of addressing transport emissions, responsible for 25% of global CO2 emissions and experiencing rapid growth.

Navigating Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity and Ambiguity

Despite the challenges posed by the global economy in the latter half of 2022, which ushered in unprecedented supply chain complexities, SEKO has remained steadfast in its pursuit of strategic growth. Amid these challenges, SEKO upheld its sustainability commitments, demonstrating its unwavering dedication through investments in human capital, cutting-edge technology, and expert partnerships

As SEKO navigates the intricate landscape of ongoing economic volatility, climate change concerns, and geopolitical intricacies in 2023, the company remains committed to forging resilient partnerships with customers and suppliers. The company’s focus on securing value-driven relationships underscores its determination to weather uncertainties collectively and guide customers, suppliers and the greater logistics industry with its expertise.

Recognizing the essential role of logistics providers in extending humanitarian assistance during times of crisis, SEKO emphasizes the responsibility to leverage its expertise, networks, and technology for the betterment of communities in need. SEKO’s commitment to contributing positively to humanitarian relief efforts underlines its dedication to societal well-being.

While SEKO acknowledges that its journey towards ESG excellence has just begun, the company is resolute in its mission to continually evolve and expand its efforts. The commitment to ESG principles forms an integral part of SEKO’s future trajectory, bolstering its position as both an industry professional and a responsible corporate citizen. With a deep-rooted commitment to the well-being of people and communities, SEKO stands poised to shape a more sustainable and responsible future.

Issue 125

SBM 125

Sustainable Business Magazine