Our operations are sited in very different climates and in countries at all stages of economic development. This means addressing issues and challenges in ways which take account of local conditions and frameworks. For example, Illovo operates in diverse environments, many of which are predominantly rural, with limited infrastructure and significant development needs, and the company has an active social investment programme structured to meet the respective needs of the communities in which it operates.
Although the challenges of sustainability can be wide-ranging and there are many local and regional issues, AB Sugar is working with its businesses to develop appropriate solutions in a number of areas including energy efficiency, agricultural productivity and water use.
As a responsible corporate citizen, AB Sugar aims to act in a socially responsible manner at all times and as such we will devise procedures appropriate to and compliant with local laws, culture and operating conditions but within the context of the following overriding principles:
Food safety
We recognise and acknowledge that consumer confidence in the quality and safety of our food products is essential. To this end a high priority is placed on all aspects of food safety.
To manage food safety risks, our sites will implement and operate food safety systems which are regularly reviewed to ensure they remain effective, including compliance with all regulatory requirements for hygiene and food safety.
Environment
AB Sugar recognises the impact that its businesses have on the environment. Therefore as a minimum, it aims to comply with current applicable legislation and its operations are conducted with a view to ensuring that:
Emissions to air, releases to water and land filling of solid wastes do not cause unacceptable environmental impacts and do not offend the community.
Significant plant and process changes are assessed and positively authorised in advance to prevent adverse environmental impacts.
Energy is used efficiently and consumption is monitored.
Natural resources are used efficiently.
Raw material waste is minimised.
Solid waste is reduced, reused or recycled where practicable.
The amount of packaging used for group products is minimised, consistent with requirements for food safety and product protection.
Health and safety
We consider health and safety as equal in importance to that of any other function of the company and its business objectives.
Harassment
We will not condone sexual, mental or physical harassment in the workplace. We expect incidents of harassment to be reported to the appropriate human resources director.
Human rights
Managers must take account of the core International Labour Organisation labour conventions and strive to observe the UN Declaration on Human Rights.
Communication
We will brief employees and their representatives on all relevant matters on a regular basis.
Security
The security of our staff and customers is paramount and we will at all times take the necessary steps to minimise risks to their safety.
Customers
We seek to be honest and fair in our relationships with our customers and above all to provide the standards of product and service that have been agreed whilst at the same time offering value for money. At all times we take all reasonable steps to ensure the safety and quality of the goods or services that we produce.
Suppliers
We will carry out our business honestly, ethically and with respect for the rights and interests of our suppliers. We will settle our bills promptly and we will co-operate with suppliers to improve quality and efficiency. We seek to develop relationships with supplier companies consistent with these basic principles, and specifically with respect to human rights and conditions of employment.
In some circumstances, for example in the case of a new acquisition or joint venture, some of these goals may not be achievable immediately; however, they will form an integral part of our forward plan for such businesses.
Employees

We are committed to offering equal opportunities to all people in their recruitment, training and career development, having regard for their particular aptitudes and abilities.
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