At SPROUT(ED), we recognise the profound impact our business activities have on the environment, society, and governance. We are deeply committed to conducting our operations with responsibility, integrity, and sustainability at their core. Our Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) policy is integral to our corporate strategy, serving as a roadmap to minimise negative impacts while maximising our positive contributions to the world.

1. Environmental Commitment

Climate change and environmental sustainability are among the most critical challenges of our time. At SPROUT(ED), we take proactive steps to address these challenges and promote sustainable development.

Key Initiatives

• Reducing Our Environmental Footprint:
  We aim to achieve ambitious reductions in our greenhouse gas emissions through renewable energy investments, enhanced energy efficiency measures, and comprehensive waste reduction programmes.
• Sustainable Supply Chain Management:
  Sustainability is at the heart of our supply chain. We engage with suppliers to promote environmentally responsible practices and incorporate green products and services wherever possible.
• Climate Risk Evaluation:
  Environmental considerations are integrated into our strategic decision-making processes to address potential climate risks and future-proof our operations.
• Continuous Monitoring and Reporting:
  We track and report on our environmental performance regularly, holding ourselves accountable to our goals and striving for continuous improvement.

2. Social Responsibility

At SPROUT(ED), we are committed to fostering sustainable development, protecting human rights, and creating a positive societal impact.

Key Initiatives

• Human Rights and Labour Standards:
  We adhere to the principles of the United Nations Global Compact, ensuring compliance with human rights and labour laws across our supply chain. Mitigation measures are implemented where risks are identified.
• Safe and Inclusive Workplace:
  We are dedicated to maintaining a workplace that is safe, healthy, and inclusive. Policies to prevent discrimination and harassment are rigorously enforced, and diversity and inclusion are prioritised at all levels.
• Employee Development:
  Continuous training and development opportunities are offered to empower employees, foster skill enhancement, and support career progression.
• Community Engagement:
  We actively engage with stakeholders and local communities to understand their needs and ensure our operations contribute positively to their well-being.

3. Governance Practices

Sound governance is the bedrock of our business integrity and long-term success. At SPROUT(ED), we are committed to upholding the highest standards of governance in every aspect of our operations.

Key Initiatives

• Adherence to Best Practices:
  We align with the principles of the International Corporate Governance Network (ICGN) to ensure transparency, accountability, and effective decision-making.
• Transparent Reporting:
  Regular updates on financial and non-financial performance are provided to shareholders and stakeholders, ensuring full accountability for our ESG initiatives.
• Board Oversight and Accountability:
  Our Board of Directors actively oversees the implementation and monitoring of ESG policies, ensuring alignment with our business strategy.
• Robust Compliance Programme:
  A strong internal audit and compliance programme ensures adherence to ESG policies, complemented by external audits and third-party certifications to validate performance and address challenges promptly.

4. Continuous Improvement

Sustainability is an evolving journey, and we are committed to remaining adaptive and forward-thinking.

• We regularly review and update our ESG policies to ensure their relevance and effectiveness.
• Feedback from stakeholders informs our decisions, enabling us to refine our practices and enhance our positive impact.

At SPROUT(ED), we are unwavering in our commitment to minimising our environmental footprint, upholding social responsibility, and maintaining exemplary governance standards. Our ESG policy is not just a framework, it’s a promise to create a positive, lasting impact on the world and future generations.

SPROUT(ED)
Date: 23rd January 2024