Orkla's zero vision is not just a moral obligation, it is also a prerequisite for efficient, profitable operations. The fundamental precondition for sustainable value creation is a good, safe work environment. This means that our activities must be well organised,
so that we can operate without risk to life or health, and can make optimal,
productive use of our workforce.
Orkla still faces many challenges in terms of preventing negative impacts on people
and the environment. Some of our companies have made a great deal of progress,
while others still have a way to go. There must be full focus on preventive efforts
in every part of our operations. This is a management responsibility, but every Orkla employee has a responsibility for actively engaging in efforts to avert and prevent injury and adverse effects.
Environment, health and safety (EHS) performance is a value driver at Orkla, as identified in Orkla's Goals and Values. Consequently, EHS must be an integral component of Orkla's business operations.
Day-to-day EHS work is carried out primarily at the local level, but benchmarking and the introduction of best practices are important aspects of EHS activities at Orkla. Orkla has become increasingly proficient at exchanging lessons learned and making EHS improvement a cross-cutting objective in every company and business area of the Group.
At Orkla we have defined EHS in a broad sense. This means that climate protection is an important focus in our environmental work. Our aim is to reduce our emissions and minimise our energy consumption. Orkla is also investing heavily in solar energy through Elkem Solar and REC.
Orkla will engage in sound, long-term, sustainable operations, reflecting recognition of our responsibility for our employees, society at large and the environment. Our vision of zero harm is universal and applies wherever in the world we operate.
Dag J. Opedal
President and CEO
Orkla ASA