Skoda’s Drive for Change – Sustainability Report 2019-2020

Czech automobile giant, Skoda Auto, released its Sustainability Report for 2019/2020 which details the company’s social responsibility efforts and the contribution made towards environmental protection and sustainable development.

The comprehensive report clearly outlines the brand’s corporate strategy when it comes to sustainability targets and corporate governance. Skoda’s commitment towards setting new benchmarks when it comes to sustainable development, social responsibility, and corporate governance activities has been clearly addressed in the report as well.

Green Future – Skoda

Being one of the largest private companies in the Czech Republic, Skoda has taken upon itself to set exemplary standards when it comes to compliance with its company-wide rules and social responsibilities. The automobile manufacturer announced its intention to work within the framework of the ‘Green Future’ strategy through the adoption of green technology in its products. The process will be guided by three pillars – ‘Green Factory’, ‘Green Product’ and ‘Green Retail’. Skoda’s aim here is to reduce carbon emissions and minimize its ecological footprint.

Skoda is taking it a step further by adopting measures to switch completely to CO₂-neutral energy in all of its Czech plants by the end of the decade. Presently, the Vrchlabi site has been leading in this regard since 2020. Skoda also employs industry 4.0 technologies like the OPTIKON AI-app to reduce environmental impact along its entire value chain. The technology has allowed the manufacturer to save 505 containers and around 180 tonnes of CO₂ emissions last year alone.

One Call Away

The global pandemic threw multiple curveballs our way which caught us off guard. Skoda’s social engagement over the course of last year focused primarily on pandemic-related programs that sought to tackle the global menace. As part of its COVID-19 initiatives, Skoda utilized its HoppyGo car-sharing platform and BeRider, an e-scooter sharing service, to provide 200 vehicles and 150 electric scooters for organizations providing aid and frontline medical workers.

Significant resources were invested by the carmaker for the production of FFP3 respirators through 3D printing when critical medical supplies started to hit the red. Financial assistance and laptops with internet connections were also provided to disadvantaged children as part of its social program.

One Tree For Every Car

The ecological project started by Skoda Auto wherein a tree would be planted in lieu of every Skoda car sold has been an astounding success. Launched in 2007, the project has contributed to the large-scale restoration of forests in the country. Emphasis is given to regions where the manufacturer’s plants are located. As of 2020, a total area of 210 hectares has been reforested – a testament to Skoda’s ingenuity.

Skoda Auto has always compiled a biennial report of its activities in Good Corporate Governance since 2005. This is the brand’s eighth report and if this year’s report is anything to go by, the coming years will be a knockout.