exo-is/governance-reporting-on-listed-companies huggingface dataset:
Keyword: governance
Governance, Safety, and Public
Policy Committee charter
FedEx 2023 ESG Report 1133Our Practical Sustainability philosophy emphasizes severe weather events, and we maintain system
strategic and transformational stewardship flexibility to minimize impacts on our customers.
to mitigate our environmental impacts and We recognize the strategic risk climate change
add tangible value to our stakeholders. This poses to our business and stakeholders while
philosophy, coupled with our regularly conducted simultaneously creating opportunities around
materiality assessments, steers our environmental sustainable products and services that advance
strategy, which aims to increase efficiency, reduce our customers’ environmental goals.
costs, and protect against fut
Keyword: governance
Social governance structure In this section
Our focus on our people enables us to recruit and retain talented team members Social governance structure
who bring our mission to life. We enhance our business performance by Our culture
supporting a diverse and engaged workforce. Across our operating companies,
Human resource management
we use a multifaceted approach to best support our people. Our Board of
Diversity, equity, and
Directors oversees our social governance approach and ensures our culture
inclusion create opportunity
aligns with our values and long-term strategy. The Compensation and Human
Health and safety
Resources Committee reviews our key human resource management strategies
and programs, while the Governance, Safety, and Public Policy Committ
Keyword: governance
DEI is integrated into our global governance structure with DEI committees
at FedEx Corporation and a DEI team at each operating company. Our DEI
Corporate Council connects DEI representatives from across the HR, Sourcing,
and Communications functions of our operating companies through bi-monthly
meetings to foster collaboration, discuss best practices, and support programs
in the communities we serve.
FedEx 2023 ESG Report 2255Furthermore, we are expanding pathways within Our culture These values apply consistently to all team
and across each operating company to uphold members, regardless of role, region, or
our commitment to DEI and continue creating Throughout our 50-year history, the FedEx culture operating company.
opportunities for our people. FedEx Express has driven our succ
Keyword: corruption
policies, and topics such as anti-corruption, antitrust, measures needed to close identified gaps. members seeking information on any violations or
conflicts of interest, and data privacy. Discipline for violations is progressive, up to and control deficiencies in our major compliance risk areas.
including termination.
In FY23, we received more than 18,600 reports Key links
and inquiries from team members, customers, and
98%
the public concerning various topics, including Corporate Integrity & Compliance website
employment concerns, safety or security issues, and
Code of Conduct
of team members completed assigned other business integrity matters. We closed out over
97% of these reports, and resulting actions included Supplier Code of Conduct
compliance training courses in FY23
coachi
Keyword: corruption
Global Anti-Corruption Policy
our Compliance Champions program.
officers, directors, and senior managers to gauge
FedEx Alert Line
their awareness of and compliance with the Code.
Managers are also equipped with a compliance toolkit,
Global Privacy Policy
which includes an Ethical Leadership Guide and an
array of resources for them to cascade to their teams. Social Media Guidelines
FedEx 2024 ESG Report 9Cybersecurity The FedEx Trust Center website serves as a valuable Additionally, the Data Privacy team has developed Key links
resource, providing detailed insights into how we processes to review generative AI use cases to
and data privacy safeguard customer privacy, along with information to manage compliance with applicable laws. Global Privacy Policy
empower
Keyword: tax
tax policy, the adoption of autonomous delivery Key links
technologies, the modernization of truck regulations
and infrastructure, and the expansion of electric Investor Relations webpage
vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure and alternative
Policy Perspectives webpage
fuels, with a focus on sustainable aviation fuels.
Policy on Political Contributions
The department also oversees our U.S. political
Governance, Safety, and Public Policy
activities, encompassing both direct and indirect
Committee Charter
political spending, and monitors our memberships and
engagement in trade associations and tax-exempt 2023 CDP Climate Change
organizations. These organizations often take positions Questionnaire > C12 Engagement
FedEx 2024 ESG Report 11Supply ch
Keyword: tax
its own revenues, employment, taxes, and capital Global Economic Impact Report
the tools they need to succeed, such as training,
investments to their national and local economies. In
mentoring, networking, access to capital, and other Supplier diversity
FY23, FedEx indirectly contributed an estimated $35.3
resources to assist in growing their business while
billion to global net economic output based on analysis Global Entrepreneurship | FedEx Cares
navigating challenges.
from Dun & Bradstreet. Additionally, this analysis
Delivering for Good | FedEx Cares
showed that FedEx supported an estimated 1.1 million
jobs outside of FedEx.
FedEx 2024 ESG Report 12Delivering a sustainable future
Our planet
Environmental governance structure
The Governance, Safety, and Public Policy Com
Keyword: tax
and regional regulations, taxes, charges, mandates, or requirements relating to greenhouse gas emissions, carbon
costs, or climate-related goals; labor-related regulations and requirements that restrict or prohibit our ability to
impose requirements on third parties who provide contracted transportation for our transportation networks;
adapting products to customer preferences and customer acceptance of sustainable supply chain solutions; the
actions of competitors and competitive pressures; and other factors which can be found in FedEx Corp.’s and its
subsidiaries’ press releases and FedEx Corp.’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Any
forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made. We do not undertake or assume any
obli
Keyword: governance
About this ESG report ................................................................3 Social governance structure ................................................26
About FedEx ...................................................................................4 Our culture ....................................................................................27
Letter from the CEO ...................................................................5 Human resource management ...........................................28
Diversity, equity, and inclusion
Our principles ................................... 6
create opportunity ....................................................................31
Governance structure and ESG risk management ......6 Health and safety ......................................................................34
Corporate i
Keyword: governance
Governance ..................................................................................43
Our planet ....................................... 13
Environmental governance structure..............................13
Strategic approach and climate change .......................14
Vehicle electrification ..............................................................18
Sustainable fuels ........................................................................20
Aircraft fuel conservation
and fleet modernization ........................................................21
Facilities ..........................................................................................22
Sustainable customer solutions .........................................24
FedEx 20
Keyword: governance
and governance (ESG) strategies, objectives, and Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions data.
Reporting framework index
initiatives. This report highlights our commitment to
ESG leadership in the transportation and logistics This report references indicators from the Global
Scope 1 & 2 GHG verification statement
industry and reflects our dedication to our core Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards and aligns with
values and goals. applicable industry-specific standards provided Corporate social responsibility webpage
by the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board
Investor relations webpage
This report covers the ESG performance for each (SASB), along with recommendations from the Task
FedEx operating company across all geographic Force on Climate-
Keyword: governance
world, shaping commerce, communities, and the make supply chains smarter for everyone. social, and governance (ESG) goals. mobility, entrepreneurship, and support for women-
very concept that business can be a force for good. and minority-owned businesses in every corner of
But we’re not stopping there. To get there, we’re unleashing the power of our data From ensuring a strong culture of accountability the globe.
—transforming the insights from our unmatched with our FedEx Code of Conduct and Supplier Code
We know that connection also propels human progress physical network into real-time intelligence and digital of Conduct to publishing an updated materiality I am proud of the progress we are making on these
and that our impact on people’s lives extends beyond solutions—that can help FedEx and our customers assessment this summer, we’re committe
Keyword: governance
Governance structure and ESG risk management
Board of Directors and global ESG governance In this section
At FedEx, we recognize that integrating ESG topics See the Our planet and Our people sections for
Governance structure and ESG risk management
into our company’s strategic focus is fundamental more details on our environmental and social
to mitigating business risks, enhancing long-term governance approaches, which we are preparing Corporate integrity and compliance
financial performance, and achieving success as to streamline as we consolidate our operating
Cybersecurity and data privacy
a global business. Our enterprise ESG initiatives companies into one organization.
and programs are overseen by the FedEx Board of Public policy and advocacy
Di
Keyword: governance
for our business, customers, team members, and governance. We strive to maintain a diverse board
stockholders. ESG performance is an integral part of that encompasses a wide range of experiences,
Key links
our culture, and we align our sustainability approach perspectives, and knowledge, as well as a mix of
with our mission, values, and long-term strategy. gender, race, ethnicity, age, and background.
Board of Directors
Corporate governance guidelines
ESG | Investor relations webpage
Our most recent materiality assessment
2023 Proxy Statement
FedEx 2024 ESG Report 6The Board has four standing committees comprised In 2023, the Board remained committed to
entirely of independent members, each entrusted overseeing key ESG priorities, including our
with oversight of specific ESG aspects. ambitious go
Keyword: governance
The Governance, Safety, and Public Policy Governance, Safety, and Public Policy Committees
Committee actively oversees our Corporate have reviewed this ESG report and discussed its
Social Responsibility (CSR) goals, strategies, contents with management.
and programs, which includes managing our
sustainability- and climate-related risks. This
committee is also responsible for monitoring
our safety programs and political activities. 36%

The Compensation and Human Resources
Committee oversees diversity, equity, and inclusion of Board members are female
(DEI), culture, workforce demographics, enterprise
healthcare initiatives, and other key aspects of our
human resources management strategies.
 The Audit and Finance Committee is responsible 29%
These risks are subsequently categorized into fi
Keyword: governance
members, and other stakeholders. The Governance,
senior business leaders to establish prioritized action
Safety, and Public Policy Committee oversees our
plans. See our Public Policy and Advocacy webpage
public policy and advocacy initiatives.
for more details on FedEx activities, including our
engagements with policymakers and trade associations.
Our Corporate Vice President for Government
and Regulatory Affairs leads the department in
our commitment to responsible engagement with
Climate advocacy
policymakers worldwide. This department drives our
initiatives by regularly evaluating matters related to Sustainability and climate policy that positively affects
global public policy, political, and legislative trends the transportation and logistics industry remains a critical
with potenti
Keyword: governance
Governance, Safety, and Public Policy
activities, encompassing both direct and indirect
Committee Charter
political spending, and monitors our memberships and
engagement in trade associations and tax-exempt 2023 CDP Climate Change
organizations. These organizations often take positions Questionnaire > C12 Engagement
FedEx 2024 ESG Report 11Supply chain FedEx also lends our global network and Supplier diversity Now finishing its third year, the FedEx E-Commerce
unparalleled logistics expertise to organizations Learning Lab, powered by Accion Opportunity
FedEx enhances the resiliency of its supply chain by
with mission-critical needs in times of disaster. For Fund and woman-owned social enterprise 37 Oaks,
To maintain our operations, FedEx contracts wi
Keyword: governance
robust policies and governance practices. To help provided almost $2 million to more than 120 small
ensure FedEx remains on a path of continuous businesses to help accelerate their growth. In FY23
Additionally, in FY23, we launched the FedEx
improvement, our Sourcing Sustainability Impact ESG integration in our supply chain alone, recipients received over $300,000 in grant
Entrepreneur Fund in collaboration with Hello Alice
Team shares best practices and advances our money, with 40% given to women-owned businesses
and the Global Entrepreneurship Network, designed
We are founding members of the Sustainable
sustainability goals within our supply chain. and 30% given to minority-owned businesses. We
to uplift veterans and small business owners with
Purchasing Leadership Co
Keyword: governance
Environmental governance structure
The Governance, Safety, and Public Policy Committee Additionally, each operating company has internal In this section
of the FedEx Board oversees our sustainability environmental sustainability departments that report
strategy, which informs our CSR goals, management, progress on goals and initiatives to the CSO. Further,
Environmental governance structure
and programs. The committee is responsible for under the oversight of our CSO, our enterprise-
Strategic approach and climate change
overseeing sustainability- and climate-related risks wide Environmental Management System sets the
and discussing sustainability matters with senior processes and practices we implement daily to
Vehicle electrification
leadership on at least an an
Keyword: governance
Governance, Safety, and Public Policy Committee charter
2023 CDP Climate Change Questionnaire > C1.2 & C1.3
FedEx 2024 ESG Report 13To advance our shared journey toward a more
Strategic approach Our Strategy
sustainable future, FedEx supports global sustainability
and climate change initiatives with nongovernmental organizations and
conservation groups. Through the Sustainable Decarbonize what’s possible
Logistics pillar of FedEx Cares, we focus on expanding
Managing our environmental impact to create
sustainable transportation in cities to reduce Minimize our emissions as much as possible
meaningful change requires strategic investment and
congestion and emissions, scaling innovative climate through cost-effective technology and
action. Delivering a
Keyword: governance
Social governance structure
At FedEx, our people are at the heart of our success across the enterprise. Each FedEx operating company The FedEx Ground Equity, Inclusion, and Engagement
and are the foundation of our strong reputation. takes responsibility for formulating its own safety department takes ownership of conceiving, driving,
Our Board of Directors works to ensure that our policies and programs, aligning with the FedEx Safety and assessing strategic DEI initiatives and team
culture aligns with our core values and long-term Above All philosophy. member engagement efforts. Additionally, the
strategy. The Compensation and Human Resources Culture Leadership team at FedEx Freight diligently
Committee regularly evaluates our human resources DEI is intrins
Keyword: governance
ically woven into our global governance evaluates our culture of inclusion, ensuring that we
management strategies and programs, while the structure. Our DEI Corporate Council connects adhere to our commitments and drive progress.
Governance, Safety, and Public Policy Committee representatives from various functions of our
oversees our safety strategies, policies, and initiatives. operating companies through regular meetings to
foster collaboration, exchange best practices, and In this section
Within each operating company, the human resources support community programs. Additionally, we
department manages various social initiatives, such implement DEI management systems at each Social governance structure
as career development, training, health, well-being, operating company to
Keyword: governance
we serve. The Governance, Safety, and Public Policy
teams incorporate proactive risk identification and driver and community safety, the FedEx Office of model safe behaviors, FedEx Express maintains the
Committee of the FedEx Board of Directors regularly
mitigation through a safety by design approach. This Transportation Safety offers the FOCUS Safe Driving Stay Sharp employee recognition program.
reviews key operating company safety metrics and
includes safety reviews for equipment or operating Program, which focuses on preventing accidents by
performance and discusses safety-related programs
procedures as part of the design life cycle assessment. teaching defensive driving techniques.
and developments with management.
FedEx Freight uses a data driven approach, i
Keyword: bribe
conflict of interest, bribery, excessive gift giving, disclosure of
information, intellectual property, fair business advertising and
competition, privacy and non-retaliation.)
• Conflict minerals
414-2 Negative 5 In 2021, First Solar conducted six audits which included environmental
impacts on and social criteria based on the RBA Code of Conduct and one supplier
social impacts completed a third-party VAP audit. Due to COVID-19 travel restrictions
in supply chain in 2021, most of the audits were conducted virtually. There were zero
and actions priority non-conformances and only one (or 14%) of the suppliers were
taken identified as having significant actual or potential negative social
impacts. Five major non-conformances were identified in the areas
of labor, health a
Keyword: bribe
respect to corruption, money laundering, and/or bribery. We require all direct suppliers to
agree to follow such principles. First Solar’s Conflict Mineral Policy is communicated to our
suppliers and is publicly available on our website. We have an operating, cross-functional
internal governance team with representatives from our supply chain, compliance, and legal
departments to ensure policy statements and control processes are followed.
We support sourcing from the covered countries when performed in accordance with
accepted international standards, specifically within the guidance from the Organization for
Economic Co-operation and Development (“OECD”). Suppliers with minerals not found to be
conflict free in their sourcing will be given a reasonable amount of time to begin sourcing
mineral
Keyword: bribe
degree and, in certain circumstances, strict compliance with anti-bribery
laws may conflict with local customs and practices. First Solar’s Global Anti-
Corruption Policy requires all associates to comply with the U.S. Foreign
Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) and all other applicable local anti-corruption
laws. The Global Anti-Corruption Policy prohibits bribery, kickbacks, and the
giving of other improper payments to obtain or retain business and covers any
person engaged to perform work on behalf of First Solar including freelancers,
independent contractors, temporary contractors, independent professionals,
agents and consultants. We communicate our anti-corruption and anti-bribery
policies in our customer and service contracts. FCPA training is provided to
associates in higher risk profile jobs and tailored accor
Keyword: corruption
Anti-Corruption ................................................................................................56
Data Security and Privacy .................................................................................57
ESG Recognition and Awards ............................................................................58
External Sustainability Initiatives ......................................................................59
ABOUT THIS REPORT ................................................................................................60
Sustainability Materiality Assessment ...............................................................61
Stakeholder Engagement..................................................................................
Keyword: corruption
• Business ethics (including corruption, extortion, embezzlement,
conflict of interest, bribery, excessive gift giving, disclosure of
information, intellectual property, fair business advertising and
competition, privacy and non-retaliation.)
• Conflict minerals
414-2 Negative 5 In 2021, First Solar conducted six audits which included environmental
impacts on and social criteria based on the RBA Code of Conduct and one supplier
social impacts completed a third-party VAP audit. Due to COVID-19 travel restrictions
in supply chain in 2021, most of the audits were conducted virtually. There were zero
and actions priority non-conformances and only one (or 14%) of the suppliers were
taken identified as having significant actual or potential negative social
impacts. Five major non-conf
Keyword: corruption
respect to corruption, money laundering, and/or bribery. We require all direct suppliers to
agree to follow such principles. First Solar’s Conflict Mineral Policy is communicated to our
suppliers and is publicly available on our website. We have an operating, cross-functional
internal governance team with representatives from our supply chain, compliance, and legal
departments to ensure policy statements and control processes are followed.
We support sourcing from the covered countries when performed in accordance with
accepted international standards, specifically within the guidance from the Organization for
Economic Co-operation and Development (“OECD”). Suppliers with minerals not found to be
conflict free in their sourcing will be given a reasonable amount
Keyword: corruption
Anti-Corruption
First Solar performs risk assessments that consider the possibility of fraud
and related indicators. We currently operate in, and may expand into, many
parts of the world that have experienced governmental corruption to some
degree and, in certain circumstances, strict compliance with anti-bribery
laws may conflict with local customs and practices. First Solar’s Global Anti-
Corruption Policy requires all associates to comply with the U.S. Foreign
Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) and all other applicable local anti-corruption
laws. The Global Anti-Corruption Policy prohibits bribery, kickbacks, and the
giving of other improper payments to obtain or retain business and covers any
person engaged to perform work on behalf of First Solar including
Keyword: corruption
agents and consultants. We communicate our anti-corruption and anti-bribery
policies in our customer and service contracts. FCPA training is provided to
associates in higher risk profile jobs and tailored according to the region. First
Solar has implemented processes and procedures to help ensure compliance
with all applicable anti-corruption laws. These processes and procedures are
monitored and audited on an ongoing basis.
First Solar Sustainability Report 2022 56Governance
Data Security And Privacy
First Solar is committed to complying with all data protection and privacy laws
applicable to our business. First Solar’s global data protection compliance
program operates as part of our global compliance program. First Solar’s
Global Data Protection Policy establishes minimum standards that First S
Keyword: tax
a substantial, gradually rising, revenue-neutral carbon tax with the revenue
distributed to citizens.
• E PEAT: First Solar is a member of the EPEAT Advisory Council, a non-fiduciary body
formed to provide input and advice to EPEAT management. EPEAT is a globally
recognized Type 1 Ecolabel which enables public and private purchasers to
identify environmentally leading products from socially responsible companies.
The EPEAT PV modules and inverters category launched in October 2020.
• International Energy Agency (IEA) Photovoltaic Power Systems Program Task
Committees 12: As a member of Task 12, First Solar promotes international
collaboration on PV safety and sustainability.
• International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA): First Solar is a founding
member of IRENA’s multi-stakeholder Coalition for
Keyword: tax
Committees, Tax Audits • Environmental compliance
& eco-efficiency
• Ethics & compliance
• Hazardous materials
• Public policy
• Quality & reliability
NGOs External Surveys, Ongoing basis, • Circular economy
Partnerships, Group annually • Community impact
Meetings, Workshops, • Environmental compliance
standards development & eco-efficiency
• Hazardous materials
• Health & safety
• Job creation
• Labor practices
• Responsible sourcing
& human rights
• Sustainable products
& innovation
Scientific Conferences, Workshops, Ongoing basis, • Circular economy
Community Meetings, Working annually • Energy & emissions
Groups, Technical • Environmental compliance & eco-
Seminars, Collaboration, efficiency
Peer Reviews, standards • Health & safety
development • Raw
Keyword: governance
GOVERNANCE ...........................................................................................................53
ESG Oversight at First Solar .............................................................................54
Leadership ......................................................................................................55
Ethical Business Conduct .................................................................................55
Collective Bargaining and Freedom of Association ..............................................56
Anti-Corruption ................................................................................................56
Data Security and Privacy ..................................................................
Keyword: governance
governance (ESG) strategy and differentiation. Our approach
can be sustainably scaled without people and the planet paying
to Responsible Solar is interwoven into every aspect of our
a high price.
business and product life cycle- from raw material sourcing to
In the context of the fight against climate change, it is important end-of-life recycling.
to recognize that not all solar panels are created equal - how and
Since allegations of forced labor in the Chinese solar supply
where they are manufactured determines how many greenhouse
chain emerged two years ago, customers increasingly value our
gas emissions they will be able to avoid and displace. Thin film
comprehensive approach to responsible sourcing and supply
CdTe solar modules manufactured in t
Keyword: governance
ENVIRONMENTAL SOCIAL GOVERNANCE
• L owest environmental • P romote a safe, inclusive • E SG oversight at Board level
footprint in the industry and diverse workplace
• T ransparent reporting
• R esource-efficient and • E ngage in local and disclosure
RE100-committed operations communities and contribute
• E PEAT Silver Rated
to a just transition
• I ndustry leading high-value
• M ember of the Responsible
PV recycling services • R esponsible sourcing with
Business Alliance (RBA)
zero tolerance for forced labor
Our approach to Responsible Solar is underpinned by the belief that solar
should never come at the price of people or the planet. It’s a focus that is 01
RESPONSIBLE
HIGH-VALUE
interwoven into every aspect of our business and product life cycle, from raw RECYCLING SO
Keyword: governance
environmental, social, governance (ESG) aspects to identify CERTIFICATION
high-risk suppliers based on industry, geography and spend. First Solar’s supplier agreements
require compliance with applicable
laws and regulations in addition
REPORTING
1 to First Solar requirements,
First Solar has established
which may exceed local legal
a third-party operated
requirements. Under the terms of
Ethics Hotline to provide an
First Solar’s supplier agreements,
anonymous and confidential
suppliers must commit to comply
solution to communicate
with the Responsible Business
serious legal, financial, ethical
or human rights concerns. No 5 At First Solar, we take a 2 Alliance (RBA) Code of Conduct
and require their suppliers to do
human rights concerns were
comprehensive approach the same
Keyword: governance
internal governance team with representatives from our supply chain, compliance, and legal
departments to ensure policy statements and control processes are followed.
We support sourcing from the covered countries when performed in accordance with
accepted international standards, specifically within the guidance from the Organization for
Economic Co-operation and Development (“OECD”). Suppliers with minerals not found to be
conflict free in their sourcing will be given a reasonable amount of time to begin sourcing
minerals responsibly and in a manner consistent with the principles of responsible sourcing
from conflict-affected areas. First Solar reserves the right to take appropriate actions up to
and including identifying an alternate source of supply or di
Keyword: governance
First Solar’s Board of Directors’ Nominating and Governance committee has
overall oversight of the company’s environmental, social, governance (ESG)
strategy and policies, as defined in their charter. First Solar’s ESG Steering
Committee, led by our Chief Executive Officer and consisting of our Executive
Leadership Team, has the highest level of direct responsibility for ESG matters
and reports into the Board of Directors on a biannual or more frequent basis.
First Solar's ESG and Sustainability team coordinates the cross-functional
taskforce of ESG focus leaders responsible for defining, measuring and
reporting on progress to the ESG Steering Committee on a quarterly basis.
First Solar’s ESG focus leaders help advance the company’s approach to
Responsible Solar by driving progress on key strategic
Keyword: governance
In 2020, we revised our Nominating and Governance Committee Charter to
underscore that we are “actively seeking highly qualified women and minority
candidates as part of the search process for new Board members,” and
better defined diversity to include background, gender, race and ethnicity. In
2021, we further revised our Nominating and Governance Committee Charter
and Corporate Governance Guidelines to state that “the search process
for new Board members… shall include one or more racially or ethnically
diverse candidate in each search process for new Board members.” For more
information, please visit our website: http://www.firstsolar.com/en/About-
Us/Leadership
Executive Management
First Solar’s CEO and executive management team are responsible for managing
the company’s day-to-day bu
Keyword: governance
Demonstrating best-in-class environmental, social, governance performance
• 2 021: Ohio EPA Encouraging Environmental Excellence PLATINUM Award
Most prestigious environmental recognition in Ohio
• 2 021: EPEAT Silver Rating
1st PV products in the EPEAT registry for sustainable electronics
(Series 6 and Series 6 Plus)
• 2 020: Kedah Department of Environment State Environmental
Excellence Award
In recognition of First Solar Malaysia’s leadership and manufacturing
operations
• 2 020: CDP Climate Change A- rating
For leadership on climate change and disclosure and management of climate-
related risks
• 2 020: CDP Water Security A- rating
For leadership on water stewardship and disclosure and management of
water-related risks
• 2 020: Global Challenges Index
Among 50 companies making pioneering contribut
Keyword: governance
global governance
• 2 019: PV Magazine Sustainability Award
Selected joint winner in recognition of Series 6’s industry leading
environmental profile
First Solar Sustainability Report 2022 58Governance
External Sustainability Initiatives
• C arbon Disclosure Project (CDP): First Solar has participated in and publicly
reported to CDP since 2011.
• Climate Leadership Council: As a founding member, First Solar supports the
Climate Leadership Council’s mission and carbon dividends plan as a cost-
effective, equitable and politically-viable climate solution. The plan calls for
a substantial, gradually rising, revenue-neutral carbon tax with the revenue
distributed to citizens.
• E PEAT: First Solar is a member of the EPEAT Advisory Council, a non-fiduciary body
Keyword: governance
Governance and Supply chain
accountability resilience Circular economy
Responsible sourcing
and human rights Public policy
Environmental
Community compliance and Ethics and
impact eco efficiency compliance
Health
Product and safety
Hazardous materials quality and
Labor practices reliability Data security
Diversity, inclusion, and privacy Talent
belonging attraction
Talent development
Lower Materiality Environment
Medium Materiality Social
Higher Materiality Governance
hgiH
Moderate High
etaredoM
About this ReportAbout this Report
Stakeholder Engagement
First Solar engages with various stakeholder groups including employees,
customers, industry associations, NGOs, local communities, scientific
organizations, media, investors and shareholders. The foll
Keyword: governance
development • Governance & accountability
• Labor practices
• Responsible sourcing
& human rights
Local Meetings & Town Ongoing basis • Circular economy
Communities Councils, Presentations • Community Impact
to Community • Environmental compliance
Organizations, School & eco-efficiency
Visits, Local Tours, • Health & safety
Training Programs • Job creation
• Quality & Reliability
First Solar Sustainability Report 2022 63About this Report
Government/ Meetings & Ongoing basis • Circular economy
Regulators Hearings, Conference • Community Impact
Presentations, • Economic performance
Seminars & Workshops, • Energy & emissions
Committees, Tax Audits • Environmental compliance
& eco-efficiency
• Ethics & compliance
• Hazardous materials
• Public policy
• Quality & relia
Keyword: governance
102-18 Governance structure Governance
102-40 List of stakeholder groups Stakeholder Engagement
102-41 Collective bargaining agreements Collective Bargaining and Freedom of Association
102-42 Identifying and selecting stakeholders Stakeholder Engagement
102-43 Approach to stakeholder engagement Stakeholder Engagement
102-44 Key topics and concerns raised Stakeholder Engagement
102-45 Entities included in the organization’s Annual Report and 10K
consolidated financial statements
102-46 Defining report content and topic About this Report
boundaries
102-47 List of material topics Sustainability Materiality Assessment
102-48 Restatements of information Our 2018- 2020 greenhouse gas emissions inventory
was adjusted based on the latest market-based grid
electricity emissions factor f
Keyword: bribe
conflict of interest, bribery, excessive gift giving, disclosure of
information, intellectual property, fair business advertising and
competition, privacy and non-retaliation.)
• Conflict minerals
414-2 Negative 3 In 2022, First Solar conducted three onsite audits which included
impacts on environmental and social criteria based on the RBA Code of Conduct
social impacts and one supplier completed a third-party VAP closure audit. Out of the
in supply chain four audits, there were zero priority non-conformances and only one
and actions (or 25%) of the suppliers were identified as having significant actual or
taken potential negative social impacts. Three major non-conformances were
identified in the areas of health and safety relating to inadequate risk
assessment and sa
Keyword: bribe
laundering, and/or bribery. We require all direct suppliers to agree to follow such principles. First
Solar’s Conflict Mineral Policy is communicated to our suppliers and is publicly available on our
website. We have an operating, cross-functional internal governance team with representatives
from our supply chain, compliance, and legal departments to ensure policy statements and control
processes are followed.
We support sourcing from the covered countries when performed in accordance with accepted
international standards, specifically within the guidance from the Organization for Economic Co-
operation and Development (“OECD”). Suppliers with minerals not found to be conflict free in their
sourcing will be given a reasonable amount of time to begin sourcing minera
Keyword: bribe
bribery laws may conflict with local customs and practices. First Solar’s Global Anti- Corruption Policy
requires all associates to comply with the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) and all other
applicable local anti-corruption laws. The Global Anti-Corruption Policy prohibits bribery, kickbacks,
and the giving of other improper payments to obtain or retain business and covers any person
engaged to perform work on behalf of First Solar including freelancers, independent contractors,
temporary contractors, independent professionals, agents and consultants. We communicate our
anti-corruption and anti-bribery policies in our customer and service contracts. FCPA training is
provided to associates in higher risk profile jobs and tailored accor
Keyword: corruption
Anti-Corruption ................................................................................................64
Data Security and Privacy .................................................................................65
ESG Recognition and Awards ............................................................................66
External Sustainability Initiatives ......................................................................67
ABOUT THIS REPORT ................................................................................................68
Sustainability Materiality Assessment ...............................................................70
Stakeholder Engagement..................................................................................
Keyword: corruption
• Business ethics (including corruption, extortion, embezzlement,
conflict of interest, bribery, excessive gift giving, disclosure of
information, intellectual property, fair business advertising and
competition, privacy and non-retaliation.)
• Conflict minerals
414-2 Negative 3 In 2022, First Solar conducted three onsite audits which included
impacts on environmental and social criteria based on the RBA Code of Conduct
social impacts and one supplier completed a third-party VAP closure audit. Out of the
in supply chain four audits, there were zero priority non-conformances and only one
and actions (or 25%) of the suppliers were identified as having significant actual or
taken potential negative social impacts. Three major non-conformances were
identified in the areas of health
Keyword: corruption
or trade of minerals. Similarly, we have a no-tolerance policy with respect to corruption, money
laundering, and/or bribery. We require all direct suppliers to agree to follow such principles. First
Solar’s Conflict Mineral Policy is communicated to our suppliers and is publicly available on our
website. We have an operating, cross-functional internal governance team with representatives
from our supply chain, compliance, and legal departments to ensure policy statements and control
processes are followed.
We support sourcing from the covered countries when performed in accordance with accepted
international standards, specifically within the guidance from the Organization for Economic Co-
operation and Development (“OECD”). Suppliers with minerals not found to be conflict free in their
sourcing will be given a reasonable amoun
Keyword: corruption
Anti-Corruption
First Solar performs risk assessments that consider the possibility of fraud and related indicators.
We currently operate in, and may expand into, many parts of the world that have experienced
governmental corruption to some degree and, in certain circumstances, strict compliance with anti-
bribery laws may conflict with local customs and practices. First Solar’s Global Anti- Corruption Policy
requires all associates to comply with the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) and all other
applicable local anti-corruption laws. The Global Anti-Corruption Policy prohibits bribery, kickbacks,
and the giving of other improper payments to obtain or retain business and covers any person
engaged to perform work on behalf of First Solar includin
Keyword: corruption
anti-corruption and anti-bribery policies in our customer and service contracts. FCPA training is
provided to associates in higher risk profile jobs and tailored according to the region. First Solar
has implemented processes and procedures to help ensure compliance with all applicable anti-
corruption laws. These processes and procedures are monitored and audited on an ongoing basis.
First Solar Sustainability Report 2023 64Governance
Data Security and Privacy
First Solar is committed to complying with all data protection and privacy laws applicable to
our business. First Solar’s global data protection compliance program operates as part of our
global compliance program. First Solar’s Global Data Protection Policy establishes minimum
standards that First
Keyword: tax
neutral carbon tax with the revenue distributed to citizens.
• E PEAT: First Solar is a member of the EPEAT Advisory Council, a non-fiduciary body formed
to provide input and advice to EPEAT management. EPEAT is a globally recognized Type 1
Ecolabel which enables public and private purchasers to identify environmentally leading
products from socially responsible companies. The EPEAT PV modules and inverters
category launched in October 2020.
• International Energy Agency (IEA) Photovoltaic Power Systems Program Task Committees
12: As a member of Task 12, First Solar promotes international collaboration on PV safety
and sustainability.
• NSF 457 Photovoltaic Module Sustainability Leadership Standard (NSF/ANSI 457- 2019):
First Solar is part of the Joint Commi
Keyword: governance
GOVERNANCE ...........................................................................................................61
ESG Oversight at First Solar .............................................................................62
Leadership ......................................................................................................63
Ethical Business Conduct .................................................................................64
Collective Bargaining and Freedom of Association ..............................................64
Anti-Corruption ................................................................................................64
Data Security and Privacy ..................................................................
Keyword: governance
environmental, social, governance (ESG) strategy and differentiation.
Environmental Social Governance
• L owest environmental • P romote a safe, inclusive • E SG oversight at Board level
footprint in the industry and diverse workplace
• T ransparent reporting
• R esource-efficient and • E ngage in local communities and disclosure
RE100-committed operations and contribute to a just
• E PEAT Silver Rated
transition
• I ndustry leading high-value
• M ember of the Responsible
PV recycling services • R esponsible sourcing with
Business Alliance (RBA)
zero tolerance for forced labor
Our approach to Responsible Solar is interwoven into every aspect of our
business and product life cycle- from raw material sourcing and manufacturing
01
RESPONSIBLE
HIGH-VALUE to end-of-life recycli
Keyword: governance
social, governance (ESG) aspects to identify high-risk suppliers CERTIFICATION
based on industry, geography and spend. First Solar’s supplier agreements
require compliance with applicable
laws and regulations in addition
REPORTING
1 to First Solar requirements,
First Solar has established
which may exceed local legal
a third-party operated
requirements. Under the terms of
Ethics Hotline to provide an
First Solar’s supplier agreements,
anonymous and confidential
suppliers must commit to comply
solution to communicate
with the Responsible Business
serious legal, financial, ethical
or human rights concerns. 5 First Solar takes a 2 Alliance (RBA) Code of Conduct
and require their suppliers to do
comprehensive approach
No human rights concerns
the same. Suppliers
Keyword: governance
website. We have an operating, cross-functional internal governance team with representatives
from our supply chain, compliance, and legal departments to ensure policy statements and control
processes are followed.
We support sourcing from the covered countries when performed in accordance with accepted
international standards, specifically within the guidance from the Organization for Economic Co-
operation and Development (“OECD”). Suppliers with minerals not found to be conflict free in their
sourcing will be given a reasonable amount of time to begin sourcing minerals responsibly and in
a manner consistent with the principles of responsible sourcing from conflict-affected areas. First
Solar reserves the right to take appropriate actions up to and including identifying an alternate
source of supply or d
Keyword: governance
Governance
61Governance
ESG Oversight at First Solar
At First Solar we define sustainability as our “capacity to endure and scale.” Our sustainability
approach enables us to achieve long-term growth while following environmentally and socially
responsible practices. First Solar’s sustainability program drives our commitment to the
triple bottom line of “people, planet and profit” through our approach to responsible life cycle
management, environmental footprint analysis, resource efficiency and greenhouse gas emissions
reduction, waste management, global charitable giving, operational cost reduction, responsible
sourcing and human rights, as well as our global PV module recycling services. We are committed
to minimizing the environmental impacts and
Keyword: governance
First Solar’s Board of Directors’ Nominating and Governance committee has overall oversight of
the company’s environmental, social, governance (ESG) strategy and policies, as defined in their
charter. First Solar’s ESG Steering Committee, led by our Chief Executive Officer and consisting of
our Executive Leadership Team, has the highest level of direct responsibility for ESG matters and
reports into the Board of Directors on a biannual or more frequent basis. The Board’s Nominating
and Governance committee takes an active role in reviewing and overseeing the company’s climate
change goals and strategy, monitoring progress on environmental targets, as well as reviewing and
overseeing the company’s human rights due diligence efforts. The full Board of Directors approves
the Company’s Modern Slavery S
Keyword: governance
In 2020, we revised our Nominating and Governance Committee Charter to underscore that we are
“actively seeking highly qualified women and minority candidates as part of the search process
for new Board members,” and better defined diversity to include background, gender, race and
ethnicity. In 2021, we further revised our Nominating and Governance Committee Charter and
Corporate Governance Guidelines to state that “the search process for new Board members …
shall include one or more racially or ethnically diverse candidate in each search process for new
Board members.”
For more information, please visit our website:
http://www.firstsolar.com/en/About-Us/Leadership
Executive Management
First Solar’s CEO and executive management team are responsible for managing the company’s
day-to-day bu