Hyvity is committed to developing a long-term strategy in which every project must be part of a local environment and must be designed to create a solution to local needs. Every project must go well beyond standard impact assessments and include the local population in its development. Although the methodology of ‘avoid, reduce, compensate’ is embedded in our DNA, we wanted to equip ourselves with tools that allow us to concretely measure these impacts.
That’s why, in collaboration with the consultancy firm Insuco, we have designed a comprehensive, operational Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS) that can be mobilized across all our projects. This system is now the major pillar that supports our actions and decisions. It allows us to anticipate essential elements that determine the conditions of our engagement in a territory and to precisely establish the specifications for studies to be carried out in order to develop action plans when necessary.
To analyze the impacts of our projects on the environment and local communities, regardless of their status (to be developed, to be constructed, in operation, or to be renovated), we have developed a versatile reading grid that complies with the World Bank’s environmental, social, and governance standards and the European taxonomy.
Sustainability criteria
We integrate sustainability, efficiency, and accessibility criteria throughout the life cycle of our projects. Through our construction choices and good management of our hydroelectric developments, we design equipment with the aim of producing energy for several decades with optimal yields according to the available resources.
Rigorous policies and practices
This management system incorporates strict policies and practices aimed at preserving the aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems surrounding our hydroelectric facilities. We adopt environmentally friendly technologies and approaches to minimize our ecological footprint. Thus, we ensure a harmonious coexistence between our activity and the natural riches around us.
A social commitment
At the heart of our concerns is our social commitment. Our ESMS includes a comprehensive reading grid and specific measures aimed at understanding, respecting, and supporting the needs of local populations. By working closely with these communities to minimize our social, economic, and cultural impacts while promoting sustainable development of territories, we encourage positive externalities around our projects. We scrupulously respect the different uses of water, ensuring that our activities do not alter the availability and quality of this essential resource.
Solid partnerships
We are convinced that the success of a project relies on establishing strong partnerships, consultation, and aligning the interests of all stakeholders. This collaborative approach promotes a lasting positive impact for each of our projects. Listening to and respecting the needs of local populations also allows us to identify environmental and social initiatives that we can support around our projects.
