Achmea is undertaking significant steps to transition towards sustainability. Their journey, influenced by national agreements and regulatory mandates, highlights their dedication to addressing climate change comprehensively. As part of their sustainability journey, Achmea is subject to the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and, in the near future, the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CS3D). These regulations necessitate rigorous sustainability practices and reporting. Achmea’s proactive stance is evident as they align with these directives, ensuring all sustainability-related activities are meticulously addressed.
In 2019, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Achmea, alongside other financial sector entities, entered into an agreement with the Dutch Ministry of Finance. This accord mandated the development and disclosure of a climate plan by 2020, with the first comprehensive plan published by 2022. The financial sector committed to assisting the Dutch government in achieving its climate goals, emphasising the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
Achmea’s climate plan, initiated in 2019, focuses on disclosing greenhouse gas emissions and establishing concrete reduction targets. By 2020, they had begun disclosing these emissions, setting the stage for the comprehensive climate plan released in 2022. This plan serves as a blueprint for Achmea’s sustainability initiatives, outlining strategies to mitigate their environmental impact.
The company’s commitment extends to participating in industry-wide working groups. Notably, Achmea chairs both the Prudential Regulation and Corporate Reporting working groups. These groups play a pivotal role in shaping industry standards for sustainability reporting, ensuring that Achmea remains at the forefront of sustainable practices.
Recognising the importance of internal engagement, Achmea has implemented extensive education programmes for their employees. These programmes aim to foster a deep understanding of sustainability issues, ensuring that all staff members are aligned with the company’s goals. By embedding sustainability into their corporate culture, Achmea ensures a cohesive approach towards achieving their climate objectives.
Moreover, Achmea emphasises the importance of stakeholder engagement. They actively collaborate with various stakeholders, including customers, investors, and regulatory bodies, to ensure transparency and accountability. This collaborative approach enhances the credibility of their sustainability efforts, fostering trust and confidence among all parties involved.
Looking ahead, Achmea is poised to further enhance its sustainability initiatives. The upcoming compliance with CS3D will introduce additional responsibilities, particularly in due diligence processes. Achmea is preparing to meet these challenges by refining their strategies and reinforcing their commitment to sustainability.
