Sustainability in the BPO Sector in Mauritius

Companies worldwide face mounting pressure from customers, NGOs and the government to disclose information about their value chain on sustainability. Legislative measures, such as the French Duty of Care Law and the EU's Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directives, require large companies to enhance transparency and address sustainability risks within their supply chains, including subcontractors. Mauritian companies engaged in subcontracting services find themselves directly affected by these regulations, highlighting the universal reach of sustainability mandates in contemporary business practices. For outsourcing decisions, factors such as cost and quality have traditionally held sway. However, a new imperative has emerged : sustainability. It has evolved into a fundamental concept that serves as a pivotal criterion for establishing new partnerships and strategic alliances, as well as renewing existing ones. 

Environmental Responsibility

Mauritius, like many nations, recognizes the importance of addressing climate-related challenges to secure its economic prosperity. While it's true that the island faces increased physical risks from climate-related events, it is important to note the proactive steps being taken to mitigate these risks. For example, companies in the sector are embracing initiatives such as promoting remote work, not only reducing environmental footprints but also ensuring uninterrupted business activities during climatic events. The BPO sector's notable 5.9% contribution to GDP underscores its significance, and its readiness for climate challenges can further enhance its economic impact. While Mauritius' contribution to global emissions is minimal (0.01%), the companies operating within the country play a crucial role in the supply chains of large international corporations, which are mandated to decrease emissions across their supply chains (scope 3). Consequently, there will be increasing pressure for these companies to decarbonize their operations by implementing CO2 reduction strategies, energy efficiency measures, and transitioning to clean energy sources and sustainable e-waste management systems. 

Social Responsibility

Social responsibility, frequently overlooked yet integral to sustainability. With more than 32,000 workers in the BPO industry, it is crucial to uphold fair work practices .Since 2023, an increasing number of BPO companies have been striving to attain Great Place to Work certification, emphasizing the importance of maintaining fair labour practices. Furthermore, these companies are placing increased emphasis on mental health and well-being, recognizing the amplified importance amid the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, they are prioritizing workplace flexibility and competitive remuneration while implementing robust human resource policies to foster an inclusive organizational culture.

Ethical responsibility

Ethical compliance is a cornerstone of sustainability. Ethical considerations crucial to the BPO sector include anti-corruption, money laundering, and data privacy. Implementing a sustainability management system is essential to mitigate non-compliance risks and safeguard reputation. Compliance is indeed the first necessary step to sustainability. However, EcoVadis rating system goes beyond this by measuring the active implementation of sustainability in the company’s management system. A study conducted in 2023 by Bain & Company and EcoVadis uncovers a significant correlation between ESG initiatives and financial profitability and growth. These findings emphasize the opportunities for private companies particularly in the BPO sector to improve their ESG efforts.

Sustainability In EcoVadis (Mauritius) Ltd

EcoVadis around the world proudly upholds the value of "Make Sustainability Real." Established in Mauritius in 2011, EcoVadis boasts a dedicated workforce of nearly 400 professionals deeply entrenched in the mission to uphold the core values encapsulated by "Make Sustainability Real." The Mauritius office has established an environment committee dedicated to promoting environmental practices internally coordinating initiatives, such as awareness campaigns, energy audits, waste management efforts, and more. Additionally, the Community Dodo team engages socially through partnerships with charities, donation and clean-up activities. Moreover we allocated 1 working day per person to engage in community service. In 2023, EcoVadis Mauritius prioritized employee well-being through initiatives such as a hybrid work model and wellness budgets psychological support. Market-based compensation practices and comprehensive health and safety, psychological support underscored the company's commitment to employee welfare. In 2023 we were certified a Great Place to Work Mauritius ranking 4th in the category of Large Companies (250+ employees) solidifying its reputation as an employer of choice. As a purpose-driven company under French law, EcoVadis exists to help global business be more sustainable, ethical and responsible. We drive positive impact and scalable change and more importantly, we walk the talk