The CEO and Chairman of Corticeira Amorim, António Rios de Amorim, was selected as the 'SDG Pioneer 2024 - Portugal', in the 'Large Companies' category, in recognition of his dedication, innovation and leadership in promoting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), at the head of the world's largest cork processing group, a group responsible to global challenges and committed to creating a better, more inclusive, equitable and sustainable future for all.
The 'SDG Pioneers' are an annual initiative of the UN Global Compact, which aims to honour leaders worldwide who advocate a positive approach for their companies based on the 17 SDGs, setting ambitious environmental, social and governance targets.
António Rios de Amorim was distinguished among several professionals from the national private sector, after a rigorous and competitive selection process that included a multi-stakeholder panel made up of representatives from the UN Global Compact Network Portugal board, United Nations entities, representatives from the IOM - International Organisation for Migration, AdP- Águas de Portugal and Nova SBE - Nova School of Business & Economics.
In addition to being recognised for his work at national level, as SDG Pioneer 2024 - Portugal, António Rios de Amorim will also be considered in the Global Round, which will identify the UN Global Compact Global Pioneers in September 2024.
According to Anabela Vaz Ribeiro, Executive Directo, UN Global Compact Network Portugal "António Rios de Amorim stands out as a visionary in the area of sustainability, leading innovative initiatives that demonstrate his passion for nature. Under his guidance, there has been an ongoing commitment to sustainable development with a particular focus on environmental sustainability, demonstrating that it is possible to combine economic growth with the sustainable use of resources. His work has been decisive in driving sustainability in the sector, serving as an inspiration to other leaders and companies around the world."
Under the leadership of António Rios Amorim, Corticeira Amorim consolidated its leading position in environmental sustainability in 2023, with a 9.1% reduction in energy consumption, an increase to 68.3% in the use of controlled renewable energy and an 8.8% reduction in CO2 emissions.
At the same time, the company also reinforced its commitments in the social dimension, implemented a plan to promote equality, diversity and inclusion and strengthened its practices with the younger generations, in particular the launch of the Young@CorkProgramme, which promotes the integration of young people, as well as their development and training.
Corticeira Amorim increased its independence and transparency in terms of governance in 2023, ensuring the responsible and ethical management of its business.
To find out more about the annual initiative of the UN Global Compact, check out the SDG Pioneers 2024 programme.