Telefónica gets sustainability cred

Telefónica has topped the Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI) based on categories such as code of conduct and corporate citizenship.

In its annual review, the rating agency Sustainable Asset Management (SAM), based on corporate economic, environmental and social performance, has rated Telefónica with a score of 86 which is 28 percentage points more than the industry average and up from its score of 81.4 points in 2008.

General manager of the chairman’s technical office of Telefónica Luis Abril said: “For Telefónica sustainable management is not only a necessity but an opportunity to differentiate and enhance our long-term value. To be leaders in sustainability in our industry, is the proof that we are doing things correctly. This milestone comes three years ahead of Telefónica’s target to lead the DJSI by 2011. Additionally, Telefónica has been recognised as the best company in economical sustainability.

“We will continue building on our 2009-20111 strategy, which includes three pillars: sustainability, innovation and transformation.”

Telefónica was recognised as having the best practice in seven key areas: risk and crisis management; standards for suppliers; reducing the digital divide; impact of telecommunications services in societies in which the group operates; brand management; codes of conduct and anti-corruption policies, and corporate citizenship.