Keti Zhvania, Public Relations and Digital Communications Manager of EFES Georgia, has been named the SDG Pioneer 2024 by the UN Global Compact Network Georgia in the category of large local or international companies. The winner was selected by an independent jury composed of representatives from the UN Global Compact Board, the United Nations, and the non-governmental sector.
As a reminder, the ‘Corporate Sustainability Award – Business for SDGs’ was organized by the UN Global Compact Network Georgia with the financial support of Sweden for the 7th time this year. At the annual ceremony, in addition to the SDG Pioneer Award, winners were recognized across six key categories. Based on the evaluation of an independent jury composed of Georgian and international members, EFES Georgia received awards in two nominations within the large business category – ‘Decent Work and Economic Growth’ and ‘Responsible Consumption and Production’.
We spoke with Keti Zhvania, Public Relations and Digital Communications Manager of EFES Georgia.
–Keti, congratulations on receiving the 2024 SDG Pioneer Award in the large business category from the UN Global Compact Network Georgia. What additional responsibility does this recognition bring for you?
– The 2024 SDG Pioneer Award in the large business category, granted by the UN Global Compact Network Georgia, highlights that EFES Georgia, together with its employees, is actively contributing to the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals in Georgia. It is especially important that the winners were selected by an independent jury composed of representatives from the UN Global Compact Board, the United Nations, and the non-governmental sector. This recognition is, of course, an additional responsibility. The SDG Pioneer Award is a source of pride for me personally and for EFES Georgia as well. Since joining the EFES Georgia team in 2018, I have shared the values of our company and have been highly motivated to engage in sustainability initiatives — and I intend to continue doing so in the future.
– More broadly, what does corporate sustainability mean for EFES Georgia?
– For EFES Georgia, corporate sustainability is a declared priority, fully aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. For over 16 years, we have been implementing various projects in the field of corporate responsibility. Therefore, the awards we’ve received for sustainability reflect the recognition of our ongoing efforts and affirm that we are moving in the right direction. In general, corporate responsibility at EFES Georgia encompasses several key areas, including caring for employees and the community, environmental protection and sustainable resource use, ensuring fair labor conditions, ethical business practices, and more. We consistently strive to align our operations with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
– EFES Georgia also received awards in two large business category nominations: ‘Decent Work and Economic Growth’ and ‘Responsible Consumption and Production.’ Could you tell us more about the company’s efforts and activities in these areas?
– The company continuously strives to ensure that these efforts are not one-off initiatives but rather are embedded in our strategic vision and supported by formal documentation. We were honored to win in two highly significant categories.
For us, our employees and their well-being are top priorities. EFES Georgia actively supports the professional development of its team members by creating individual growth plans. The company promotes equal opportunities and rights for all employees, ensuring their health, well-being, and safety. For example, EFES Georgia offers a comprehensive health insurance package and covers 100% of maternity leave. We have a formal Code of Ethics and an Ethics Committee in place. We treat all colleagues fairly and equally, regardless of their characteristics.
Regarding the second nomination, this award reflects our ongoing efforts across multiple sustainability projects. The company prioritizes the efficient use of resources during production, the implementation of waste management systems, the reduction of environmental impact, and the development of a sustainable supply chain.
Since 2012, we have been operating a biological Wastewater Treatment Plant, which fully complies with EU standards and requirements.
In addition, we have a very important update, which refers to the company’s transition to the use of renewable energy. This implies transferring all energy sources and the production process to electricity obtained from renewable sources.
Among other environmental initiatives, EFES Georgia was the first company in Georgia to join the National Forestry Agency’s program ‘Forest Friend’, and we fully fund the restoration and maintenance of approximately 12 hectares of forest land.
For years, we’ve also implemented a variety of environmental protection initiatives, including energy efficiency and conservation programs, waste management, sustainable use of natural resources, and awareness campaigns on environmental issues.
Additionally, I’d like to highlight our GO Green entrepreneurship program, which we launched in partnership with Impact Hub Tbilisi and Startup Büro. The program aimed to promote sustainable entrepreneurship in Georgia and empower startups and individuals working in this direction.
– What other upcoming initiatives do you have planned in the area of corporate responsibility?
– Going forward, we are committed to continuing and expanding our activities aimed at strengthening a decent work environment, contributing to the economic growth of both the company and the country, and further promoting responsible consumption and production.
