Apa Nova, the provider of water supply and sewerage services in the Municipality of Bucharest, has published its sustainability report for the year 2023, which highlights the solutions implemented, the achievements and the company’s firm commitment to sustainable development. With a particular focus on responsibility, the report demonstrates the integration of sustainability principles in every aspect of operations, according to the new European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) and the methodology provided by the Romanian Sustainability Code.
In 2023, Apa Nova has made significant progress, recording reductions in CO₂ emissions of 623 tons through the use of photovoltaic panels, increasing the share of renewable sources in total energy consumption to 42% and reducing the carbon intensity of operations by 5% compared to the previous year.
The company also achieved a 91.07% achievement rate of implementing action plans to protect the natural environment and biodiversity in sensitive areas. Strategic investments and innovation efforts have materialized in essential projects such as the construction of photovoltaic energy production units, with a total value of 7.7 million euros, and a pilot project for the recovery of thermal energy from sewage water, with an investment of approximately one million lei. Also, Apa Nova invested 1.3 million lei in the purchase of electric vehicles for the fleet, thus demonstrating the continuous commitment to reduce the impact of the company’s activity on the environment.
“We are confident in achieving the assumed sustainability objectives given the significant progress we have made in 2023, by reducing carbon emissions and increasing the use of renewable energy sources. Investments in modern infrastructure and innovative technologies reflect our continued dedication to a sustainable future for all Bucharest residents. We will continue to make efforts in the development of sustainable projects and in adapting our strategies to meet the needs of today, but especially of tomorrow, ensuring a greener future for our community”, said Mădălin Mihailovici, General Director of Apa Nova Bucharest.
In 2023, Apa Nova distributed a volume of drinking water of approximately 9.55 million cubic meters to neighboring towns and took over a volume of waste water of approximately 12.61 million cubic meters. At the same time, the yield of the drinking water supply system was assessed at 77.87%, 5.87% above the objective standard of 72%. Another notable aspect highlighted in the sustainability report is the reduction of waste from water treatment and purification equipment by 24.7%, thus exceeding the objective set for 2023.
In addition, Apa Nova managed to completely eliminate work accidents with temporary incapacity in the year 2023, registering a decrease from three cases in 2022 to zero in 2023. In terms of human resources development, the company provided an average of 50 hours of professional training per employee, thus promoting a safe and progressive work environment. Apa Nova’s results in the field of sustainability are also recognized internationally.
The evaluation of the independent rating agency EcoVadis placed the operator in the top 10 worldwide, with a global score of 45/100. Within the “Sustainable Supply Chain Finance” program, developed together with banking partners, EcoVadis’ ESG score is integrated into the interest calculation, facilitating suppliers’ access to financing and supporting cash flows. Apa Nova Bucharest reaffirms its commitment to invest in environmental protection and continue the development of sustainable projects, with an investment plan of approximately 9 million lei for the year 2024.
The company will continue to implement environmental, social and governance projects, thus ensuring a long-term positive impact on the community and the environment.
