Sands China Ltd, a prominent casino operator in Macau, has made significant strides in its environmental sustainability efforts as detailed in its 2024 Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Report. The company announced that it has surpassed its previously set target of a 17.5-percent reduction in emissions, achieving a remarkable 60-percent reduction in its scope 1 and 2 emissions from a 2018 base year. This achievement underscores Sands China's commitment to environmental stewardship and positions the company as a leader in the industry's move towards sustainability.
The report, released on Wednesday, not only highlights the company's past successes but also sets forth new ambitious goals. Sands China has outlined a new target to reduce scope 1 and 2 emissions by 30 percent by the end of 2025. This new objective is part of a broader strategy that includes the company's first low-carbon transition plan, demonstrating a proactive approach to combating climate change.
Detailed Achievements and New Targets
"The new target complements our existing SBTi-validated 17.5 percent emission-reduction target by aligning with the 1.5°C temperature goal of the Paris Agreement," stated the casino firm. This alignment with global climate goals reflects Sands China's dedication to not only meeting but exceeding international standards for environmental responsibility.
Sands China, a subsidiary of the U.S.-based Las Vegas Sands Corp, operates five casino complexes in Macau. The company's 2024 ESG report also detailed other areas where it has performed well on sustainability targets. For instance, in 2024, potable water use remained below the 2019 base year and above the 3-percent intensity-reduction target, showcasing the company's effective water management strategies.
Further demonstrating its commitment to sustainability, all five of Sands China's Macau properties obtained ISO 14001 Environmental Management System certification in 2024. This certification is a testament to the company's ongoing efforts to maintain high environmental standards across its operations.
Additionally, Sands China completed 17 projects that reduced energy consumption by 13,848 MWh and resulted in estimated annual energy savings of US$2 million among its Macau properties. These initiatives are part of a broader effort to enhance energy efficiency and reduce the company's carbon footprint.
Broader Impact and Future Aspirations
Sands China's president and chief executive, Grant Chum, emphasized the company's holistic approach to sustainability in a message included in the report: "We have established a number of targets to drive progress and create sustainable impact, including a flagship ambition for each ESG pillar." He further noted the company's satisfaction with the progress made after completing year four of the 2021–2025 ESG reporting cycle.
In terms of social impact, Sands China reported delivering 2.3 million hours of workforce training in 2024, bringing the total to 8.6 million hours and exceeding the 2025 target of 7 million hours. This extensive training program underscores the company's commitment to developing its workforce and enhancing employee skills.
The company also exceeded its target of contributing 200,000 team member volunteer hours to local community service organizations. In 2024, Sands China's team members logged 17,761 volunteer hours, bringing the total to 205,154 since 2021. This significant contribution to community service reflects the company's dedication to social responsibility.
Last year, the group's Sands Cares Ambassadors marked 15 years of community service, further highlighting the long-term commitment to making a positive impact in the community.
"Our goal is to not only comply with regulatory requirements, but also to establish a benchmark for excellence in ESG practices as we move forward," said Mr Chum. This statement encapsulates Sands China's vision for the future, aiming to set new standards in environmental, social, and governance practices within the industry.
Source: Sands China outlines new target to reduce carbon emissions, GGRAsia, March 28, 2025.
Posted by Wizard
Mar 28 2025
Mar 28 2025
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