The full version of our Code of Ethics can also be downloaded here
For more than 50 years, REMONDIS has been involved in recovering and processing recyclable materials. Our aim is to make as many suitable materials as possible available for reuse and to continuously develop existing recycling processes. We focus on technological innovation, our own research and development activities, and patented processes. In this way, we create new opportunities for raw material recovery and support businesses and local authorities in keeping materials in circulation.
What drives us is our commitment to developing further material cycles and continuously improving existing recycling processes.
The circular economy as part of the European Green Deal
Through the European Green Deal, the EU aims, among other things, to achieve climate neutrality by 2050 and improve resource efficiency. Recovering and reusing raw materials can help reduce demand for primary raw materials. Depending on the material and process, this can also reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. REMONDIS develops and operates solutions for recycling, services and water management. Our activities cover a range of sectors, including industry, construction, energy supply and municipal infrastructure. They include processing recyclable materials, recovering raw materials and continuously developing recycling technologies.
Transformation is on our DNA
The REMONDIS Code of Ethics. Our principles for responsible business conduct
The REMONDIS Code of Ethics sets out the principles that guide our business activities. These include the use of resources, respect for human rights, fair working conditions and responsible corporate governance. The guidelines provide a common framework for our business activities. Below you can explore selected topics covered by our Code of Ethics.
Environmental sustainability
We are committed to conserving natural resources and protecting the environment across all of our business divisions. We fully back the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and do everything in our power to contribute towards all of these 17 goals. It goes without saying that we comply with all environmental protection standards. With recycling being one of our key activities, protecting natural resources and preventing carbon emissions and pollution are at the very core of our company philosophy. In addition to this, we take every step possible to reduce emissions across all of our business divisions. To achieve this goal, we operate both an environmental management programme and an energy management programme. Moreover, we also provide information and training courses for our employees to raise awareness of environmental and climate issues and promote an environmentally conscious workplace.
Respect for human rights
The REMONDIS Group respects human rights and adheres strictly to the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). We do not tolerate any form of forced labour or any form of child labour. We comply with the legal minimum working age determined by each country or set out in collective wage agreements provided that this age is not below the minimum working age prescribed by the International Labour Organisation (ILO). No matter where in the world we operate, we ensure that the statutory labour laws of the country in question form the basis for the minimum working standards for our employees – for example regarding working conditions, health & safety, remuneration and employer contributions. One of our fundamental aspirations is to establish German and European standards, even if these are not necessarily guaranteed by local laws.
Non-discrimination
Any decision made by the company to recruit or promote members of staff is based solely on their qualifications and job performance. We promote equal opportunities and the equal treatment of employees. We do not tolerate any form of discrimination for reasons of race or ethnic origins, sex, religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation. Discriminatory measures that may undermine the premise of interactions being free of distinction, exclusion, preference or harassment are forbidden without exception, no matter how minimal their impact may be.
Legally compliant working hours
We always respect and comply with all working time regulations. The permitted maximum working time set out in legislation and work regulations is never exceeded. Overtime is limited to the statutory and/or contractual conventions applicable at the respective location. We ensure that all required rest breaks are adhered to and attach the greatest importance to the health, safety and satisfaction of our employees. It goes without saying that there is an unrestricted right to freedom of association and collective bargaining at our company.
Health & Safety
Comprehensive measures are taken to protect and safeguard the health and safety of our employees. Besides adhering to all country and industry-specific health and safety regulations, we also have our own dedicated health and safety programmes that our managers must promote and monitor. These programmes focus on the health and safety aspects of our work processes and working conditions as well as the safety behaviours of individuals and the work safety culture at the company as a whole. People from all levels of the business are continuously sharing information as part of our zero accidents culture, so that even better results can be achieved when it comes to preventing accidents and work-related illnesses.
Fair competition
The REMONDIS Group is fully committed to free markets. Breaches of competition law – no matter where, for what reason or to what extent – are absolutely forbidden at our company. This standpoint is reflected and adhered to across all of our business processes. When working with our suppliers and customers, we prohibit any action that could even remotely promote illegitimate influence on competition. This includes agreements made regarding prices, market shares, capacities and the allocation of customers and regional markets as well as any other form of influence that may be problematic under competition law. Any company disposals, acquisitions and joint ventures are subject without fail to merger control by the antitrust authorities responsible for the relevant country.
Financial responsibility
Handling company assets and company property responsibly is the economic basis for our successful operations. Any decisions we make are always aimed at safeguarding and growing our company assets. Our ethical and moral guidelines apply to our financial decisions and investments as well. We never speculate on raw materials or on rising or falling prices. Moreover, we never participate in fields of business that involve short-term gains or put the company at risk. We handle our company’s resources in an appropriate, responsible, sustainable and legitimate way. Moreover, we protect our company against misuse, damage, ruin, loss and theft. Any form of fraud, disloyalty, theft, embezzlement and tax evasion is forbidden, regardless of whether such action damages the assets of the company or of a third party.
REMONDIS – working for the future all around the globe
REMONDIS is one of the world's leading companies for recycling, services and water. With more than 45,000 employees, we operate in over 30 countries. Our activities include the collection and processing of recyclable materials, the recovery of recycled raw materials, water management and industrial services. Our headquarters are located in Lünen, Germany. Across the REMONDIS Group, we continue to develop technical solutions and recycling processes to meet the different requirements of industry and local authorities.
Find out more about our company at remondis.com
REMONDIS’ commitment to sustainability has also been recognised by the German Sustainability Award which has already named our company one of the TOP 3 most sustainable large businesses three times
This recognition confirms our ambition – as does the EcoVadis Bronze Medal, which recognises the sustainability performance of the entire REMONDIS Group.
Responsibility as part of business conduct
How can environmental, social and economic considerations be incorporated into business decisions? In this episode of the SUSTAINX podcast, Sebastian Schwarz, Head of ESG at REMONDIS, discusses responsible corporate governance, practical measures and the continuous development of business processes.
