SEPTEMBER 2025
2024 ESG Sustainability Report
1 2 3 4 6 7 5 Gift by Gift, Commitment by Commitment Environment About this Report GRI Table Governance • Business Ethics • Materiality • Sustainability Strategy • Stakeholder Engagement • Climate Change Mitigation • Pollution • Water Management • Circularity
AODACi: Changing the World, Gift by Gift
• Message from the CEO • 2024 Highlights • Sobre a AODACi • About AODACi
Social
• Labour Practices and Employee Development • Employee Well-being • Diversity, Equity and Inclusion • Supply Chain Workers • Social Investment • Responsible Customer Management
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Sustainability Report 2024 Gift by Gift, Commitment by Commitment
Environment Social Governance About this Report
GRI Table
AODACi: Changing the World Gift by Gift
1
Message from the CEO
3
2024 Highlights
4
About AODACi
6
Governance Structure
9
Sustainability Report 2024
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AODACi: Changing the World, Gift by Gift
1.1
MESSAGE FROM THE CEO
“In particular, in the Sustainability area, remarkable groundwork was carried out throughout 2024, which will translate, in 2025, into a significant pipeline of certifications and audits successfully completed... ” “The year 2024 was AODACi’s first year in the market. Like any new project, it faced major challenges that demanded exemplary commitment from all members of the organization. This is, from the outset, the aspect I value and highlight the most in the year that ended: the creation of a strong DNA and a resilient team, which gives us confidence for the challenges ahead. From the very beginning, we wanted AODACi’s offer to be innovative and stand out for its sustainability in the promotional industry. The market’s response could not have been more positive. Throughout the year, we held hundreds (yes, hundreds) of meetings with clients and almost unanimously, the feedback highlighted the relevance and originality of the collection, which filled an existing gap in the market.
In particular, in the Sustainability area, remarkable groundwork was carried out throughout 2024, which will translate, in 2025, into a significant pipeline of certifications and audits successfully completed (at the time of writing this text, I already know that several goals have been achieved). We currently face several challenges that go beyond the objectives initially defined for this project. The renewal and growth of the collection must aspire to higher levels of sustainability, as well as increasing the percentage of products sourced from the European market. It is also essential to expand the set of metrics we make available to our clients, making them more effective and relevant in communication with the end consumer. At the same time, as a growing organization, we must adopt a stricter set of indicators to assess our operational practices, particularly their sustainability. This is just the beginning of our journey and we hope that this first AODACi ESG report clearly and accurately portrays where we are today and where we want to go in our commitment to sustainability.”
Alexandre Gil, CEO
If the market’s feedback was a motivating mechanism from the start, countless operational challenges also arose, which gave us the sense that our journey is only just beginning.
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1.2
FROM PURPOSE TO PRACTICE: 2024 HIGHLIGHTS
86,8%
290
hours of volunteering: 18,1 hours per employee
of sustainable materials in products sold
60%
of female employees
7,8T
CO 2 E and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions (scope 1 and 2 – market-based)
6
0
shares within the AODACi Exchange programme
of the methodology to calculate Product Carbon Footprint certification
incidents of non-compliance with labelling and marketing
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AODACi: Changing the World, Gift by Gift
Certifications:
0
13
JAN 2025
cases of bribery, corruption and conflict of interest registered
policies developed and approved
Memberships:
100%
of stakeholders informed regarding the Code of Conduct
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1.3
ABOUT AODACi
positive transformation, by promoting brands with environmental awareness and social impact.
By choosing AODACi , our partners are not just purchasing products, they are establishing a partnership with an organization that values integrity, sustainability and innovation ...
Sustainability is the central axis of our value proposition. Our portfolio includes a wide range of products developed from recycled materials and responsible sources, contributing to the reduction of our clients’ environmental footprint and promoting more sustainable consumption habits. Innovation is also one of the fundamental pillars of our activity. We invest in differentiated design and creative solutions that challenge the conventional, allowing brands to stand out in an increasingly competitive market. From the latest technological gadgets to utilitarian items with bold design, our products reflect our commitment to originality, quality and responsibility. By choosing AODACi, our partners are not just acquiring products. They are establishing a partnership with an organization that values integrity, sustainability and innovation as drivers of lasting positive impact, both for people and the planet.
WHY DOES AODACi EXIST AND HOW DO WE CONTRIBUTE TO A BETTER WORLD?
At AODACi, we combine innovation, sustainability and creativity when developing promotional solutions that reflect the values and commitments we assume as a responsible organization.
We believe that promotional products can go beyond their traditional communication function, becoming instruments of
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AODACi: Changing the World, Gift by Gift
OUR PURPOSE INNOVATE IN THE PROMOTIONAL INDUSTRY TO INSPIRE SUSTAINABLE CONSUMER CHOICES
Our purpose helps us improve every aspect of our business, product by product. To achieve our purpose, we:
Differentiate ourselves through product design , choosing sustainable raw materials and packaging design and influencing our suppliers’ production processes; Carefully select our suppliers , integrating ESG criteria into procurement processes and conducting regular audits; Empower all people, promoting sustainability literacy through market communication, training activities and information sharing;
•
Build trust-based relationships along the value chain, based on transparent communication and tangible performance indicators; Reduce our carbon footprint through the acquisition of carbon credits and the purchase of forest areas.
•
•
•
•
We do this through sustainable promotional products, designed with sustainably sourced and ethical materials, which represent a more conscious and positive choice for People and the Planet.
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OUR VALUE CHAIN
At AODACi, the value chain is designed to ensure positive impact at all stages, from material selection to final delivery. We work with partners who share our sustainability principles, ensuring ethical and responsible practices aligned with our values.
UPSTREAM
DOWNSTREAM
OWN OPERATION
Raw Materials
Final Client
Energy
• Electricity • Gas
Primary Activities
• Recycled / Non-recycled • Natural origin / Anthropogenic
• Inbound logistics • Product design • Outbound logistics • Marketing and sales • Service
Transport • Land
Transport
Factories • Product manufacturing • Portugal / India / China
Final Consumer
Support Activities
• Maritime • Land
• Human resources management • Business development • Technological development • Procurement
Transport • Land
Transport
Warehouse
End-of-life Product Management
• Air • Land
• Product storage • Product customization
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AODACi: Changing the World, Gift by Gift
GOVERNANCE STRUCTURE 1.4
AODACi ’s governance structure is based on a simple but effective model, aligned with the principles of transparency, accountability and agility in decision-making. The organization’s leadership is ensured by two members of the Executive Committee: the CEO and the CTO, who together guarantee strategic definition, operational oversight and the integration of ESG principles across all areas of activity. This governance model enables close, cohesive and responsive management, ensuring that decisions are made with deep business knowledge, a focus on innovation and a commitment to sustainability.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE:
ALEXANDRE GIL CEO | CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER 14 years of experience in the Industry Experienced wholesale sector manager, specialized in marketing management, strategic planning, international business and market analysis.
MARCO RAMOS CTO | CHIEF TECHNICAL OFFICER 12 years of experience in the Industry Experienced IT Director, specialized in managing complex systems, large-scale projects and achieving successful results. Graduated in Computer Engineering, stands out for his strategic problem-solving capacity in various sectors of activity.
Holds a Master’s degree in Economics, with a specialization in Corporate Finance.
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Sustainability Report 2024 Gift by Gift, Commitment by Commitment
Environment Social
Governance
About this Report
GRI Table
Gift by Gift, Commitment by Commitment
2
Materiality
11
Sustainability Strategy
14
Stakeholder Engagement
17
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Gift by Gift, Commitment by Commitment
2.1
MATERIALITY
THE DOUBLE MATERIALITY ASSESSMENT PROCESS
At AODACi , we believe we can only make conscious and lasting strategic decisions when we clearly understand what matters most to our business , to society and to the planet .
5. Identification and evaluation of IROs: We organized and analyzed the information gathered, considering both impact materiality (actual and potential impacts of our activity) and financial materiality (risks and opportunities relevant to the company). 6. Building the Double Materiality Matrix: We concluded the exercise by constructing the matrix, consolidating the data and positioning the material topics by their relevance in terms of impact and financial risk and/or opportunity, creating a clear, decision-oriented tool.
We adopted a robust approach aligned with current best practices, structured in six major steps:
1. Sector benchmarking: We analyzed the sustainability practices of reference companies in our sector to identify common themes and emerging trends. 2. Reference framework review: We considered the ESRS requirements, the CSRD, applicable legislation and other sector-relevant guidance. 3. Context analysis: We assessed internal and external factors that influence our activity, including economic, environmental, social and regulatory aspects. 4. Stakeholder mapping and engagement: We held an internal workshop with representatives from several areas of the company to identify our main stakeholder groups and then ran surveys and interviews to collect perceptions and to identify impacts, risks and opportunities (IROs).
In this context, we conducted our first Double Materiality Assessment, which allows us to identify the sustainability topics where AODACi has the greatest impact on the economy, the environment and people (including human rights) and also to understand the financial risks and opportunities these topics represent for the company. The main objective of this exercise is to set strategic priorities in sustainability, keeping us focused on what truly matters for our stakeholders and for AODACi’s future, while aligning the analysis from the outset with the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) under the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD).
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25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10
Circularity and waste management Supply chain workers
Climate change mitigation
Data security Purchasing practices
Responsible Customer management
Labor practices and employee development Business ethics
Diversity, equity and inclusion
Employee well-being
9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0
Pollution
Social investment
Biodiversity and ecosystems
Water management
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25
Impact Materiality
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MATERIAL TOPICS
Through this process, we identified the following priority material topics for AODACi :
E Climate change mitigation Pollution Water management Circularity and waste management S Labor practices and employee development Employee well-being
Diversity, equity and inclusion Workers in the supply chain Community investment Responsible customer management
G Business ethics
This reinforces our commitment to responsible, well-informed and forward-looking management. By integrating these topics into our strategy, we are building a more resilient, sustainable and relevant AODACi for everyone.
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2.2 SUSTAINABILITY STRATEGY
SUSTAINABILITY ROADMAP
2024
+ 10ha of local forest + 10% carbon footprint offset + 5% of sustainable materials in our collection 2026
• Product carbon footprint • Code of ethics and conduct • Sustainable procurement policy • ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certifications • Aquisition of 10ha of local forest
Our commitment to sustainability is based on the use of sustainable and recycled materials, the preservation of the environment and the reduction of our carbon footprint. In this regard, we have set a goal to offset 10% of the carbon footprint associated with all purchased stock through investment in duly certified projects. We want to drive a positive transformation in the world around us through conscious and responsible actions. To this end, we have developed a Sustainability Roadmap that compiles all our sustainability commitments, from obtaining certifications to acquiring forest land, incorporating sustainable materials into our products and creating policies.
• +5% of sustainable materials in our collection • Mitigate 10% of carbon footprint of all stock
2023
2025
• FSC certification • Pending B CORP • Product carbon footprint
• ECOVADIS Certification • B CORP Certification
• AMFORI and SMETA audits • First sustainability report • Product certifications: GRS and RCS • + 10ha of local forest • + 10% carbon footprint offset • + 5% of sustainable materials in our collection
• Products with 60% sustainable material • 5% of the collection made in Portugal
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SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS
The United Nations (UN) 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is a global action plan for people, the planet and prosperity.
At AODACi, we are committed to generating a positive and meaningful social and environmental impact, contributing to the fulfilment of the 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through well-defined strategies and concrete actions.
Sustainable development relies on responsibly meeting the needs of the present while safeguarding the future for the next generations.
The growing focus on ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) criteria is an unavoidable reality, reflecting the global trend toward investments and practices that create positive societal and environmental impact, as well as corporate alignment with the SDGs established by the United Nations. In this context, AODACi aligns its activities with the UN SDGs and, taking into account its field of action, organizational culture and business strategy, commits to actively supporting and contributing to five Sustainable Development Goals: SDGs 8, 9, 12, 13 and 15 .
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CERTIFICATIONS AND MEMBERSHIPS
At AODACi, we have been strengthening our commitment to best practices in sustainability, quality and social responsibility through obtaining certifications and joining leading initiatives. We currently hold the FSC® certification (since 2023), which ensures the responsible sourcing of forest-based materials, as well as ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certifications, obtained in 2024, which guarantee quality management and environmental management, respectively. In 2024, we also became members of GRACE - Responsible Companies and joined the Stepforward Pledge and Charte RSE initiatives, which promotes gender equality and sustainability within the business community.
At the beginning of 2025, we achieved new milestones with strategic impact, such as the validation of our product carbon footprint calculation methodology by Bureau Veritas , the Smeta 4 Pillar audit, the distinction of receiving the EcoVadis Gold Medal and joining leading international platforms such as the UN Global Compact , SEDEX and amfori BSCI . These advancements strengthen our commitment to continuous improvement, transparency and responsibility throughout the entire value chain.
Throughout 2025, we are committed to taking further steps, notably through obtaining B Corp certification as well as GRS (Global Recycled Standard) and RCS (Recycled Claim Standard) certifications, consolidating our alignment with the highest environmental, social and governance standards.
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2.3 STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT
At AODACi , we strive to maintain a close and continuous relationship with our stakeholders, prioritizing dialogue through follow-up meetings whenever possible.
Stakeholders
Expectations / Interests
Engagement Methods
Ensure the supply of sustainable products with low carbon footprint and responsibly sourced materials. Ensure services that meet AODACi’s operational needs. Essential contribution to the functioning and success of the project. Commercialization and acquisition of AODACi products.
Product Suppliers
Regular meetings.
Service Providers
Regular meetings.
Daily interaction and internal meetings. Regular meetings, trade fairs and promotional events (roadshows).
Employees
Customers
Following the stakeholder mapping workshop carried out as part of the Double Materiality Analysis and in accordance with our internal procedure PRD.008 – Organizational Context and Stakeholders, we have defined our main stakeholder groups.
Obtain financial return and monitor project performance.
Meetings and monitoring key performance indicators.
Investors
Obtain and maintain licenses required for operations. Ensure good relations and absence of negative impacts. Visibility, creation of synergies and collaboration on common goals. Obtain financial support and credit approval. Obtain certifications validating sustainable and quality practices. Contribute to social and environmental well-being of the surrounding community. Develop innovative solutions and adopt sustainable techniques and materials.
Legal compliance, issuance and renewal of licenses.
Regulatory and Legal Bodies
Neighbors
Occasional communication.
Participation in events, training and volunteer activities.
Non-Profit Organizations
Banking Institutions
Meetings.
Certification Bodies
Audits.
Local Community
Volunteer activities.
Meetings, participation in R&D projects and training activities.
Technology Centers and Universities
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Environment Social Governance About this Report
GRI Table
Environment
3
Climate Change Mitigation
19
Pollution
22
Water Management
23
Circularity
26
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Environment
3.1
CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION
Aware of the climate emergency and the role companies must play in the transition to a low-carbon economy, at AODACi we have been implementing concrete measures to mitigate climate change , focusing on reducing greenhouse gas emissions across the entire value chain.
Additionally, our clients increasingly value transparency and environmental performance. Therefore, measuring, monitoring and reducing our carbon footprint is a priority: not only to ensure alignment with legal and market requirements, but also to improve our processes and contribute to a low-carbon economy. The economic activity of distributing promotional gifts, often with a short life cycle or disposable, is associated with significant environmental impacts, namely the continuous emission of greenhouse gases (GHG). The lack of control over these indirect emissions represents a concrete challenge to the transition to a low-carbon economy. Transporting materials and products from countries far from our warehouses is associated with higher GHG emissions. Thus, we intend to increase the number of qualified suppliers located in Europe, thereby reducing that distance. In addition, we plan to introduce selection criteria that favour suppliers with carbon-offsetting practices, thus helping to improve the emission balance of the supply chain. The growing demand for products with a lower climate impact is an incentive for innovation and differentiation by presenting design solutions with a smaller carbon footprint. The use of recycled, recyclable or natural materials can not only reduce associated emissions but also strengthen our value proposition with clients and increase the market share of our products.
Aware of the climate emergency and the role companies must play in the transition to a low-carbon economy, at AODACi we have been implementing concrete measures to mitigate climate change, focusing on reducing greenhouse gas emissions across the entire value chain.
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APPROACH AND RESULTS
In 2024, we completed the calculation of the carbon footprint of all products in our collection (cradle-to-grave for technological products and cradle-to-gate for the remaining product categories), as well as the corporate carbon footprint (Scope 1 and 2 emissions). The product carbon footprint methodology we developed was audited by Bureau Veritas in February 2025. This process required detailed data collection from our suppliers, with whom we held several meetings to explain the methodology, clarify questions and ensure the consistency and reliability of the information provided. At our facilities, we directly weighed several products and packages. We also visited a domestic supplier and met with the technology centers CITEVE (Textile and Clothing Technology Center) and CTCV (Ceramics and Glass Technology Center). The conclusion of this work represents an important milestone in our approach to climate change mitigation, by providing a solid technical basis for more informed decisions and for more transparent communication with all stakeholders, namely through the Product Sustainability Identity Cards. The carbon footprint of products and operations was completed and audited in 2025, strengthening the basis for sustainable decisions and transparent communication. At the operational level, we already have photovoltaic panels at the Murtede facilities and use a fleet made up of electric vehicles. We also collected energy and structural data on the buildings we occupy, in
coordination with the landlord.
Within our Quality and Environmental Management System, certified to ISO 9001 and ISO 14001, we set annual goals, targets and indicators, which we monitor periodically.
For 2024, we set four goals directly linked to climate change mitigation:
• Annual acquisition of 10 hectares of forest in central Portugal;
• Offsetting 10% of the carbon footprint associated with our annual stock;
• A 5% increase in the proportion of sustainable materials in the annual collection;
• Improvement of the methodology for calculating the carbon footprint of products in the collection.
The main result achieved in this period was the completion of the new calculation of our products’ carbon footprint, in February 2025. This milestone provides the technical basis for more informed decisions and allows us to communicate our environmental performance more transparently, namely through the Product Sustainability Identity Cards.
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Environment
HIGHLIGHTED INITIATIVES CARBON FOOTPRINT CALCULATION
LOOKING AHEAD
In 2025 we aim to:
We developed our own methodology and an Excel tool for calculating the product-level carbon footprint, based on data collected from our suppliers. The initiative also made it possible to determine the percentage of sustainable material present in each item in the collection. Each product now has a Product Sustainability Identity Card, enabling clear communication of its environmental profile. Providing concrete data for each product is a significant step forward in our sustainability communication and is based on information audited by an external entity.
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Fulfil some goals that were not achieved in 2024, namely the acquisition of 10 hectares of forest in central Portugal and the offsetting of 10% of the carbon footprint associated with the annual stock; Continue the environmental improvement process by selecting, for the next collection, suppliers that meet more demanding criteria, ensuring progress in material choices and in the environmental performance of products compared with the 2024 collection.
•
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3.2
POLLUTION
Our approach focuses on reducing the potential environmental impact of products and packaging, prioritizing materials with a lower risk of contamination and promoting their reuse whenever possible. This material topic refers to water, soil and microplastics pollution, environmental impacts that originate mainly in AODACi’s value chain. The selection of materials and the design of products and packaging play a central role in preventing these impacts, which affect ecosystems, biodiversity and human health. The lack of control over toxic substances and hazardous waste in upstream production stages can compromise water quality and contaminate soils. The presence of microplastics and inadequate disposal practices exacerbate the degradation of ecosystems and promote the spread of persistent pollutants in the environment.
APPROACH AND RESULTS
exercise and applied reuse suggestions to all products in the catalog. The internally defined target was fully met; therefore, no specific performance indicators were set for this action.
Soil, water and microplastics pollution are among the potential impacts associated with the materials used and the end-of-life of the products and packaging marketed by AODACi. Although these impacts occur mostly outside the company’s direct operations, their mitigation depends on decisions made during the product design and development phase. In this context, priority was given to selecting materials with lower environmental impact, namely natural or recycled options, whenever available and technically feasible. Packaging was designed with a second-use function to avoid immediate disposal and delay its entry into the end-of-life phase. They can be reused, for example, as a pencil holder, keyboard support or base for objects.
For aodaci, every package is an opportunity to create value, not the end of a cycle.
By reducing the likelihood of early disposal, these measures help limit waste generation and the impacts associated with landfill disposal or the dispersion of microplastics in the environment.
Our Design Team conducted a benchmarking
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Environment
3.3
WATER MANAGEMENT
While AODACi is a service company without manufacturing , our direct water use is limited . However, we recognise the indirect impacts associated with our supply chain, particularly in the textile sector , and we are committed to understanding and attempting to mitigate those impacts . Water use management is a material topic for us given the importance of this resource across our value chain, especially in water-intensive production processes. High water consumption in some production activities can accelerate the depletion of freshwater resources and negatively affect local ecosystems. For this reason, we consider it essential to acknowledge this risk and to integrate it into our assessment of environmental impacts.
HIGHLIGHTED INITIATIVES SECOND LIFE FOR PACKAGING
AODACi’s Design Area, in Murtede, developed an initiative focused on creating a second life for the packaging of its products. The main goal was to prevent these packages from becoming waste and ending up in landfill, promoting their reuse through creative and functional suggestions integrated into the design itself. Each package now includes suggestions for reuse after the product has been unpacked, such as picture frames, footrests, birdhouses or pencil holders. This approach is intended not only to reduce the amount of waste sent for recycling or landfill, but also to enhance the value of products in the market, reinforcing AODACi’s commitment to sustainability and responsible design.
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APPROACH AND RESULTS
• Identify environmental aspects related to our premises, activities, products and services and to assess their impacts;
As a service company, without production processes, our direct water consumption is low and is essentially limited to human use, associated with restrooms and the kitchen, as well as the corresponding discharge of domestic effluents, which are managed by the Cantanhede Municipal Council. However, we recognise the indirect impacts associated with the consumption and discharge of water by our suppliers, particularly in the textile sector, a sector known for its intensive use of this resource, which represents the origin of a significant part of our product collection. Water management, although not a significant direct environmental impact in our activity, takes on particular relevance in the context of our value chain. As a company certified under ISO 14001, we have an effective Environmental Management System, aligned with the requirements of this international standard, which supports our practices, procedures, and working methods in the environmental field, enabling us to:
This procedure applies to all environmental aspects, direct and indirect, such as, those we control or influence, under normal, abnormal or emergency conditions and in relation to our premises, activities, products and services. In 2024 we did not define specific actions for water management within our direct operations, but we monitored water consumption at our Murtede facilities. At supplier level, we made initial contact requesting SMETA 4-Pillar (Sedex) and Amfori BSCI audit reports and analysed suppliers’ water consumption and management actions. We anticipate further engagement in future during which improvement actions may be requested.
•
Define, implement and monitor actions to improve effectiveness and efficiency via environmental management programmes; Define and implement operational control measures, prevention and emergency response capabilities and monitoring plans to control environmental aspects; Establish corrective and preventive actions if issues that could alter the company’s environmental performance are identified; Promote among all employees, at all hierarchical levels, the importance of responsibility for environmental protection and pollution prevention.
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•
•
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Environment
HIGHLIGHTED INITIATIVES SHARING AND ANALYSIS OF SMETA 4-PILLAR AND AMFORI REPORTS
LOOKING AHEAD
•
As part of our commitment to sustainability and to identify significant indirect impacts, in 2024 we launched an initiative to evaluate water- management practices across our supplier base. The aim was to understand the environmental maturity of our value chain and to determine whether urgent actions were needed, especially in regions more vulnerable to water stress. This analysis relied on information collected through recognised audits (such as SMETA 4-Pillar and Amfori BSCI), which provided data on supplier location, consumption monitoring, reduction targets and effluent management. Out of 64 suppliers contacted, 52 replied to the survey, giving us a representative sample. The main findings were:
57.5% of suppliers have set water-consumption reduction targets;
In the medium term we intend to:
• Strengthen our engagement with suppliers by analysing the reports and action plans resulting from SMETA 4-Pillar and Amfori BSCI audits and by following up on those action plans to optimise water management; • Deepen contact with textile suppliers to stay informed about sector innovations, adopt best practices and influence suppliers to implement them;
•
However, more than 60% of suppliers do not monitor or manage their effluents.
These results indicate that, while most suppliers are not in water-scarce regions and monitoring practices are underway, there is still significant room for improvement in effluent management. This information will be essential to guide our next steps in supplier engagement and in setting more demanding sustainability criteria in the future.
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Preferentially select suppliers that are not located in more geographically sensitive (water-stressed) areas.
•
Only five suppliers are located in water- scarcity areas; of these, only one is a textile supplier (responsible for five items in our total collection);
•
Over 50% of suppliers monitor their water consumption;
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3.4
CIRCULARITY AND WASTE MANAGEMENT
As distributors of sustainable promotional products , we embrace circularity as one of the guiding principles of our business model, incorporating sustainable materials, promoting smart design and extending the life cycle of the products we bring to market. The promotion of sustainable raw materials, the development of reusable items and the efficient management of waste are central aspects for us on the path toward a more circular business model. This approach allows us to minimize the use of virgin resources, encourage the reuse of materials and reduce waste generation, with significant positive impacts throughout our value chain. Initiatives such as investing in environmental certifications, using packaging with a second life cycle, or designing more durable and recyclable products, as well as engaging with clients and the community through product donations and proper guidance on disposal and reuse, reinforce this commitment. Even so, the sector in which we operate is associated with risks of increased waste generation with significant environmental impacts, which underscores the critical importance of this issue within the context of our sustainability strategy.
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Environment
APPROACH AND RESULTS
Circularity is one of the central pillars of our sustainability strategy and a differentiating element in the gifts sector, traditionally marked by products of low durability and high waste. We recognize the need to counter this trend and to adopt solutions that promote resource efficiency, product durability and the minimization of waste throughout the entire life cycle. In 2024, we made a clear commitment to integrating circular principles, from the design of our products through to their final use. Careful selection of materials was one of the main areas of focus, with the objective of ensuring that the items in our collection are composed, whenever possible, of more sustainable materials. We consider materials more sustainable when they present a lower environmental impact throughout their life cycle - from extraction and processing to disposal. For our products, we prioritize renewable, recycled or easily recyclable materials, which contribute to a long useful life and whose transformation requires low consumption of energy and water, as well as lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to equivalent conventional materials.
as bamboo, cork and wood, as well as recycled materials such as polyester, stainless steel and paper. This approach allowed us to surpass our initial target of 65% sustainable materials per product, reaching a final value of 86.8%, as reflected in our performance indicator of grams of sustainable materials per kilogram of product. The use of recycled materials in our products, particularly in the textile and metal segments, enables us to add value to already existing resources, reducing pressure on virgin resources and lowering the environmental footprint of the products. We exceeded our sustainability target by reaching 86.8% sustainable materials per product: a significant improvement compared to the initial goal of 65%. Product design was also conceived with a focus on circularity. From the very beginning of the collection’s development, we prioritized durable solutions that prevent premature disposal and enable longer product lifespans. This concern also extends to packaging, where we implemented a “second life” concept, encouraging users to reuse them as pencil holders, frames, paperweights, mobile phone stands, among others. These solutions are intended not only to avoid waste
generation but also to foster greater environmental awareness among our clients.
Regarding waste management, we collaborate with certified entities such as Novo Verde and ERP Portugal, ensuring the proper management of packaging as well as waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) and batteries and accumulators (BA) placed on the market. Waste produced in the office, due to its nature and low volume, is classified as municipal waste and managed by the respective local authorities.
In defining our sustainable materials indicator, we included, for example, natural materials such
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HIGHLIGHTED INITIATIVES
SELECTION OF RECYCLED MATERIALS FOR THE AODACi COLLECTION
Between April 2023 and March 2024, we developed an initiative focused on the design and development of a sustainable product collection, with the aim of ensuring that at least 65% of the composition of the items would consist of sustainable materials. The work involved our internal Sustainability, Procurement and Compliance teams and was carried out from our facility in Murtede. Through a careful selection of materials, in close collaboration with our suppliers, we achieved an outstanding result of 86.8% sustainable materials by weight in the collection, significantly surpassing the target set. This result reflects our commitment to the circular economy and has allowed us to communicate our dedication to sustainability with transparency to stakeholders, strengthening our value proposition in the sustainable gifts market.
SECOND LIFE PACKAGING
Between July 2023 and January 2024, we launched the “Second Life Packaging” initiative, with the purpose of ensuring that all our product packaging included suggestions for reuse after opening. The initiative took place in Murtede, one of our operational sites and involved the Design team. Creative and functional proposals were developed to give packaging a new life, transforming them, for example, into frames, footrests, birdhouses, mobile phone stands or pencil holders. This approach enhances the value of our products, reduces the amount of waste sent to recycling or landfill and promotes more circular and conscious consumption habits.
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Environment
LOOKING AHEAD
PRODUCT DONATIONS
Throughout 2024, with the aim of giving a new life to items that, although not meeting commercialization criteria -either due to the customization process or after our quality inspection - still retain full functionality and usefulness, we formalized an internal procedure that allows these items to be redirected to employees, schools, fairs and social institutions. This initiative, carried out between January and December 2024, enabled the donation of products with a total value of 23.112,82 €, benefiting various entities such as the Cantanhede Municipal Council, Gafanha da Nazaré Secondary School, União Popular e Cultural de Chelo, Missão Saúde para a Humanidade, Banco de Recursos Colmeia (Municipality of Cantanhede) and the association ACREDITAR. This action reinforces our commitment to circularity and to creating social value from resources that would otherwise be discarded.
To strengthen our commitment to the circularity and sustainability of the materials we use, we have set the following concrete next steps:
•
Obtain GRS (Global Recycled Standard) and RCS (Recycled Claim Standard) certifications by September 30th 2025;
•
Gradually select materials and suppliers that hold recognised product certifications.
30 AODACi: Changing the World, Gift by Gift
Sustainability Report 2024 Gift by Gift, Commitment by Commitment
Environment Social Governance About this Report
GRI Table
Social
4
Labour Practices and Employee Development
31
Employee Well-Being
34
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
35
Supply Chain Workers
37
Social Investment
38
Responsible Customer Management
42
Sustainability Report 2024
31
Social
4.1
LABOUR PRACTICES AND EMPLOYEE DEVELOPMENT
At AODACi , we promote fair working conditions and invest in the continuous development of employees, ensuring their well-being , stability and recognition . We recognize that our employees are the driving force of our activity and, for that reason, we foster labour practices that value their experience, well-being and professional development. We are committed to guaranteeing fair, safe and motivating working conditions through equitable remuneration policies, performance recognition, job stability and growth opportunities. We continuously invest in skills development and career management, providing training programs, regular feedback sessions and support in role transition processes. We believe that creating a positive and structured work environment is essential to prevent dissatisfaction or demotivation that could compromise the personal fulfilment and balance of our employees.
APPROACH AND RESULTS
of initiatives such as the volunteering allowance, which enables each person to dedicate up to 20 annual hours to social or environmental projects of their choice. We created AODACi Exchange, an internal space for sharing knowledge and experiences, with sessions led by colleagues or guests, focused on personal and professional development. In 2024, AODACi launched innovative initiatives such as the volunteering allowance and AODACi Exchange, promoting personal and professional growth, knowledge sharing and stakeholder engagement. We also conducted the first performance evaluation, communicated transparently, as well as an internal study on the remuneration policy, with the goal of ensuring fairness and pay equity across the organization. Additionally, we provide a set of benefits that promote work–life balance, including flexible working hours, the possibility of remote work and health insurance.
As a start-up, AODACi’s first years have been marked by natural challenges of growth and structuring, accompanied by a strong commitment to build a solid and sustainable organizational culture. The year of 2024 stood out as a milestone, with the implementation of structuring practices that culminated in certification under ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 standards and in achieving the EcoVadis Gold Medal , with particular emphasis on the social dimension. During this period, we documented and implemented several internal procedures, setting objectives, targets and performance indicators, actively involving our employees and considering their needs and expectations. We drafted key policies, including the Code of Conduct and Ethics , the Human Resources Policy and the Well-Being Policy , fostering a culture of integrity and responsibility.
Employee appreciation was also a priority, with the launch
Sustainability Report 2024
32
HIGHLIGHTED INITIATIVES
This initiative involved all areas of the company and took place at AODACi’s headquarters, with the active participation of all employees and some external guests. The impacts were already visible, namely in greater awareness of the topics addressed, increased tolerance and empathy within the team, the incorporation of more sustainable practices in daily work routines and improvements in well-being and work efficiency.
AODACi Exchange is an internal initiative launched in 2024 with the purpose of promoting regular moments of knowledge sharing among AODACi employees and some of its stakeholders, strengthening continuous learning, skills development and the building of a culture of collaboration. Typically held once a month for one hour, each session features a speaker, either internal or invited, who addresses a topic previously identified based on the team’s interests.
Between July and October 2024, six sessions were held, covering diverse topics such as:
• •
Composting
Conscious Living: Sustainable Practices at Work and in Daily Life
• •
Sales
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion: From Theory to Practice
• •
Relaxation Exercises at Work
Keyboard Shortcuts to Increase Productivity
Sustainability Report 2024
33
Social
The AODACi Giving initiative encourages employees’ to participate actively in volunteer activities and the donation of products that do not meet commercialization criteria, giving them the opportunity to contribute to social and environmental causes, in line with the company’s values and the principles of the circular economy. Between September and December 2024, employees from all areas of the company took part in a variety of activities, such as supporting an association for parents of children and young people who have or have had cancer, cleaning waterways, maintaining outdoor spaces, supporting animals, supplying water and food and planting trees. At the same time, donations of goods, particularly notebooks, were organized for organizations and projects working with vulnerable communities. Notable contributions included support for the NGO Projeto João 3.16, the Academia Arte e Saber school in the Cuntum Madia neighborhood of Guinea-Bissau through the Missão Saúde para a Humanidade and the Boroma Mission in Mozambique, in collaboration with the Consolata Missionaries. The actions took place in several locations, including Aveiro, Coimbra, Cantanhede, Guinea-Bissau and Mozambique and made it possible not only to avoid wasting materials that would otherwise have been discarded, but also to generate positive impact in various communities. This initiative reinforces AODACi’s commitment to solidarity, sustainability and social responsibility, while fostering a spirit of mission and engagement among its employees.
Sustainability Report 2024
34
4.2
EMPLOYEE WELL-BEING
At AODACi , employee well-being is a central commitment, promoted through balance, safety and dialogue . The practices implemented are designed to prevent occupational risks and to enhance personal and professional development. At AODACi, employee well-being is understood as an essential pillar for the organization’s sustainability. For this reason, we have adopted a range of measures that promote balance between personal and professional life, physical and mental health, as well as workplace safety. Active management of schedules and workload, labour flexibility, the promotion of dialogue between the company and employees and the implementation of preventive practices demonstrate AODACi’s commitment to creating a healthy, safe and balanced environment. These actions are intended not only to prevent illness and workplace accidents, but also to ensure conditions that foster the personal and professional development of each employee.
APPROACH AND RESULTS
At AODACi, we ensure that every employee has the conditions and tools needed to perform their duties with comfort, safety and efficiency. We provide essential equipment such as laptops, mobile phones with data, ergonomic mouse and cushions, properly adjusted chairs, as well as additional monitors to guarantee a functional workstation adapted to individual needs. In 2024, we carried out an occupational risk assessment and, based on the results, we are implementing improvements in the identified conditions, reinforcing our commitment to health and safety in the workplace. The Health and Well-Being Policy was also approved, establishing guiding principles for promoting employees’ physical, mental and emotional well-being.
The health and well-being policy reinforces our commitment to the physical and mental health of the entire team. We also offer a set of benefits that contribute to work–life balance, namely flexible working hours, the possibility of remote work and health insurance, promoting a more inclusive, healthy and sustainable work environment.
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