Overview
The DKS Group follows an ESG strategy aimed at seamlessly integrating ESG factors into all areas of the company. This promotes the sustainable development of the business and reflects our awareness of our responsibilities in environmental protection, social responsibility, and corporate governance.
We consider it our mission to lead the DKS Group into a sustainably successful future through our ESG strategy.
To develop this strategy, a materiality analysis was conducted to identify the most important ESG factors. These were classified into the three core areas: Environment, Social, and Governance. The identified ESG factors serve as parameters for achieving medium- to long-term sustainability improvements at DKS.
ESG-Compass
As a parent organization, we aim for stable growth through nationwide success. Fulfilling the expectations of our clients, employees, and stakeholders is part of our long-term, sustainable growth strategy. ESG factors are essential components of a forward-looking and responsible business model.
To ensure the implementation of sustainable practices, we adhere to the UN Global Compact framework, the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative, offering a globally recognized standard.
The initiative seeks to align business strategies and operations with universal principles on human rights, labor, environmental responsibility, and anti-corruption.
We at DKS Group fully align with the UN Global Compact principles, which reflect our corporate values and support our long-term ESG-driven success.
Human Rights
- 1) Businesses should support and respect the protection of internationally proclaimed human rights; and
- 2) Ensure they are not complicit in human rights abuses.
Labor Standards
- 3) Businesses should uphold the freedom of association and the effective recognition of the right to collective bargaining;
- 4) Eliminate all forms of forced and compulsory labor
- 5) Abolish child labor; and
- 6) Eliminate discrimination in employment and occupation.
Environment
- 7) Businesses should support a precautionary approach to environmental challenges
- 8) Undertake initiatives to promote greater environmental responsibility
- 9) Encourage the development and diffusion of environmentally friendly technologies.
Anti corruption
- 10) Businesses should work against all forms of corruption, including extortion and bribery.
ESG Overview
The following chart provides an overview of the Environmental, Social, and Governance topics at DKS Group, compiled in May 2023.
Stakeholder Dialogue
Knowing and considering the needs and interests of our stakeholders – and continuously improving through open exchange – is fundamental to our ESG approach. Due to our responsibility toward society and the environment, we aim to involve stakeholders closely in all company-relevant decisions and processes.
Key stakeholders include employees (and potential hires), customers, suppliers, lenders, investors, and municipalities.
Employees are our greatest asset. Regular training and continuing education are offered to foster ongoing professional development. Leadership and staff engage on equal footing. Feedback meetings and an open-door policy allow everyone to shape the company culture.
Continuous communication with our suppliers also allows us to assess and enhance the efficiency of our supply chains.
Environmental
Our efforts to lead DKS sustainably are demonstrated in our commitment to minimizing environmental impact through conscious actions. We aim to reduce environmental strain by increasing resource efficiency.
Resource-Efficient Operations
One core aspect of our work is trenchless pipe and sewer rehabilitation, a technique that preserves underground infrastructure. Compared to open construction methods, no roadways or walkways need to be excavated, minimizing disruption to public life and requiring only limited underground space. It also protects tree roots and reduces soil displacement.
Thanks to a guaranteed service life of 50 years (for lining techniques), short construction times, and excellent cost-efficiency, trenchless rehabilitation is both an ecological and economical alternative to traditional methods.eil ist, dass keine neue Trasse und nur ein begrenzter Bauraum unter der Oberfläche nötig sind, da minimalinvasiv gearbeitet wird.
Social
Corporate social responsibility is central to DKS. We aim to create a positive social impact both within and outside the organization, responding to societal needs. This is not only ethically important, but essential for sustainable success.
Occupational Safety
We ensure the use of certified, safe tools and equipment. Our staff are qualified and receive regular training to ensure a safe work environment. We provide and maintain all necessary personal protective equipment and safety systems for both employees and external partners.
Employer Attractiveness
Expectations of employees have evolved. We actively involve them in decision-making and promote transparent internal communication. Especially in a craft-based industry facing skilled labor shortages, this is key to retaining talent.
Governance
DKS promotes awareness of fair business practices, data protection, and lobbying transparency.
Fair Business Practices
We advocate for ethical business relationships. Employees are prohibited from offering or accepting gifts, payments, invitations, or services that could influence transactions beyond normal hospitality or are illegal.
Data Security
Protecting personal data is a core governance priority. We comply with national laws and the EU GDPR. We treat client, partner, and employee data with utmost care.
Lobbying
We do not engage in lobbying or political activities, nor do we hire third parties to do so on our behalf.
ESG-Roadmap
DKS continuously evolves its ESG strategy and initiatives across all sustainability dimensions. Our focus remains on conserving resources. We regularly review ESG factors and update our approach as needed to ensure maximum impact and fulfill our responsibilities.
ESG-Beauftragter
To ensure ongoing development and implementation of our ESG strategy, Jan Jörgenshaus (CEO) has been appointed as the ESG Officer. As a senior leader, he is well positioned to advance the company’s sustainability goals. He ensures that our ESG strategy is implemented, regularly reviewed, and continuously improved.