HMM, Global ESG Evaluation 'Gold' Grade for 2 Consecutive Years

HMM announced on the 23rd that it has received the 'Gold' rating for two consecutive years in the ESG evaluation by EcoVadis.

EcoVadis is a global ESG rating agency based in France that evaluates companies' sustainability and supply chain sectors. Experts in these fields assess companies' ESG policies and performance using scientific evaluation methods. It is one of the top agencies among over 600 global ESG rating organizations and is a representative ESG evaluation institution used by companies worldwide.

EcoVadis evaluates more than 100,000 companies across over 170 countries worldwide in four categories: Environment, Labor & Human Rights, Ethics, and Supplier Management. It awards ratings such as Platinum (top 1%), Gold (top 5%), Silver (top 25%), and Bronze (top 50%).

In this evaluation, HMM received a significantly higher score in the environmental category compared to the previous year, earning the Gold rating for two consecutive years. After receiving the Silver rating in 2021, HMM became the first company in the domestic shipping industry to achieve the Gold rating in 2022. This year, it received an evaluation placing it in the top 3%, an increase from the previous year's 4%.

HMM has quantitatively set and is implementing reduction targets for energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. It was recognized for excellent environmental management by establishing policies and detailed plans to reduce air pollution and waste.

ESG management is emerging as a key issue in business and is increasingly important as a necessity rather than a choice. Recently, the number of global major shippers requiring global ESG evaluation ratings has increased, and in some cases, it is a mandatory condition for participation in bids. Therefore, this evaluation result is expected to greatly contribute to strengthening HMM's business capabilities.

Kim Kyung-bae, CEO of HMM, stated, “Through this evaluation result, the trust of stakeholders such as customers, shareholders, and local communities in our ESG management performance will be greatly enhanced,” and added, “We will strive to become a trusted company by receiving high evaluations not only in the environmental sector but also in all other areas.”