Thai telecom giant Advanced Info Service (AIS) has been listed as a member of Dow Jones Sustainability Indices (DJSI) 2021 for the third consecutive year.
The inclusion demonstrates the firm's strong commitment to building a better world while increasing business growth.
Somchai Lertsutiwong, AIS's chief executive, welcomed the news and stressed the importance of balancing the firm's business operations in crucial areas in environment, society and governance (ESG) towards sustainable development.
"AIS is committed to building sustainability to support powering the digital economy to create mutual development and growth," said Mr Somchai.
"We operate our business in a framework of sustainable development, including economic, social and environmental dimensions which incorporate the interests of all our stakeholders through creating digital products and services which can level up quality of life and enhance the potential of our business to make things happen, and bring about genuine change through their application."
AIS supports Thais with its 5G network and innovative digital technology that comes with high-security standards. These prevent clients from potential cyber threats and protect their personal data at the same time.
The telecommunication firm also launched the "Fit Fun Fair" programme for employees' professional development and fosters an environment that encourages knowledge sharing.
As for the environment, AIS has improved the efficiency of electrical power distribution within the firm and expanded the virtual machine server system, which helps conserve energy.
AIS also has been using more renewable energy. In 2020, the company installed solar panels at 2,747 base stations and four data centres and mobile switching centres. As a result, the firm was able to reduce gas emissions by 3,503 tonnes in 2020.
Another critical component that helps AIS make the DJSI is its waste reduction and management initiatives. More than 6.7 million customers have switched from paper billing to e-payment. The company also raises awareness of its electronic waste programme and has collected over 234,463 pieces of e-waste from over 2,400 drop-off points nationwide.
"Our being chosen as a member of Dow Jones' Sustainability Indices this year, including both the DJSI World Index and DJSI Emerging Markets Index, is a source of motivation for us and another confirmation of AIS teams' dedication to creating sustainable growth and resilience of digital infrastructure for the Thai people," said Mr Somchai.
"AIS has applied DJSI principles of evaluation as part of our operations plans. This has enabled us to manage our organisation sustainably in the interests of every group of stakeholders, and aligned with international standards. In the end, this also benefits the country overall."