Vicinity unwrapped: our Sustainability story

Vicinity Centres has released its FY21 Sustainability Report, showcasing its industry leading sustainability program that has been included on the CDP’s Climate A-List for a second consecutive year.

Over the year, Vicinity has seen significant progress in all areas of its sustainability strategy, despite challenges faced due to the pandemic, and has also expanded its COVID-19 community response by providing spaces within its centres for testing clinics and vaccination hubs.

“We are so proud of what we have achieved over the past financial year. From progressing towards our net zero carbon emissions by 2030 target, publishing our inaugural Modern Slavery Statement, and reinforcing our commitments to the indigenous community under our Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), we have continued our commitment to act on climate change, strengthen our communities and build an ethical supply chain,” Ms Banks said.

A key highlight is the commencement of a three-year strategic partnership with the Australian Red Cross (ARC). Central to the partnership is the implementation of ARC’s WorkREDi and Youth Connect programs which focus on addressing some of the challenges facing young people and our communities.

“Vicinity’s community investment strategy focuses on addressing important social issues that impact our centres and our communities right across Australia. Programs like WorkREDI will allow us to address this issue head-on and play an important role in shaping stronger and more thriving communities”, said Ms Banks.

• Progressing towards a net zero carbon emissions target by 2030 for the common mall areas of our wholly-owned retail assets.

• Becoming formal supporters of the Task Force for Climate-related Financial Disclosure (TCFD) and participants to the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC).

• Publishing the inaugural Modern Slavery Statement and advanced management of Modern Slavery risks within Vicinity’s supply chain.

• Procuring $6.2 million through social and indigenous enterprises over a four-year period to 30 June 2021 and becoming members of Supply Nation to further Vicinity’s commitments to indigenous businesses.