Fortinet, the global cybersecurity leader driving the convergence of networking and security, has released its 2023 Sustainability Report, highlighting significant progress in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance. The report underscores Fortinet's commitment to sustainability, with a focus on reducing carbon emissions, promoting responsible business practices, and fostering an inclusive cybersecurity workforce.
This annual report outlines the company's approach, commitments, and progress on the sustainability issues that matter most to Fortinet and its stakeholders, including employees, investors, suppliers, partners, and customers.
Four Sustainability Pillars
As detailed in the report, Fortinet’s sustainability approach has four pillars: addressing cyber risks to society, diversifying cybersecurity talent, respecting the environment, and promoting responsible business across its value chain. In support of the company’s commitment to sustainability and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Fortinet joined the UN Global Compact in 2023 and adheres to its human rights, labor, environment, and anti-corruption principles.
Additionally, Fortinet was recognized in the 2023 Dow Jones Sustainability Indices (DJSI) World and North America indices for the second year, underscoring the company's continued commitment to sustainability and its endeavors towards shaping a more sustainable future for everyone.
According to the report, in 2023, Fortinet achieved a 62% average reduction in product energy consumption, contributing to a 0.1% decrease in its overall carbon footprint. The company also made strides in renewable energy, achieving 100% renewable electricity in 80% of its owned sites. Furthermore, the company has effectively prevented approximately 455 tons of CO2 emissions by implementing eco-friendly packaging initiatives. These efforts align with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, which prioritizes sustainability and environmental conservation.
Commenting on the report, Sami AlShwairakh, Senior Director for KSA at Fortinet, said, “The report reflects Fortinet’s commitment to sustainability and responsible business practices. This commitment reinforces our dedication to, and alignment with, Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. Our goal of building a safer digital world has become mission-critical and essential to our society and economy. We are proud of the progress in this year’s sustainability report, while being mindful that advancing our sustainability goals and efforts is a continuous journey of improvement.”
Fortinet's Sustainability Strategy
Fortinet's sustainability strategy is guided by globally recognized frameworks, including the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB), the Taskforce on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD), and the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC). By adopting these frameworks, Fortinet demonstrates its dedication to transparency and accountability in its sustainability reporting.
In addition to environmental stewardship, Fortinet is committed to promoting responsible business practices. In 2023, the company joined the UNGC, pledging to uphold the organization's ten principles in the areas of human rights, labor, environment, and anti-corruption.
Fortinet is also dedicated to nurturing a diverse, equitable, and inclusive (DEI) cybersecurity workforce. Moreover, the company has implemented an Environmental Management Systems (EMS) platform to track its energy, water, and waste impact, aiming to establish goals that align with limiting global warming to 1.5°C.
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