Interview with V. Büchler-Bezzola and S. Bojanic
Sustainability is part of Swiss Post’s company identity
Swiss Post’s Corporate Responsibility (CR) unit is currently concentrating its activities on the “Environment” area of action, with a focus on climate and energy. In this interview, Co-Heads Vivien Büchler-Bezzola und Stefan Bojanic discuss the ongoing strategy period and take a glimpse at the next one.
Swiss Post takes responsibility for climate protection through targeted measures. What specific goals is Swiss Post pursuing?
Vivien Büchler-Bezzola: We want to be net zero from 2040. This means that we will reduce our greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by at least 90 percent by that date. One of the most important measures is electrifying our vehicle fleet. We already prevent around 9,700 tonnes of CO2 emissions a year thanks to our electric vehicles. However, despite all reduction measures, approximately 10 percent of unavoidable residual emissions will remain from 2040. For this reason, we are already investing in CO2 removal and storage. Net zero means that, as a whole, we will no longer generate any greenhouse gases from 2040. In line with this promise, companies with a net zero target have a responsibility to help tackle unavoidable emissions.
In 2023, our climate target was validated by the Science Based Targets initiative.
A responsible approach to resources is currently a key issue in corporate management. What will this look like in the future?
Stefan Bojanic: Society’s expectations and needs are evolving, and Swiss Post is evolving along with the needs, challenges and opportunities of our times − as it always has throughout its history. This requires us to think consistently about sustainability when we’re working on Swiss Post’s future viability. We will integrate the three aspects of sustainability − economical, social and environmental − even more deeply into our corporate strategy and ensure that sustainable business decisions are taken at all management levels. And we will communicate transparently on these issues − as in this report, where we are writing about all the subjects that are relevant to Swiss Post.
How will Swiss Post evolve when it comes to corporate responsibility?
Vivien Büchler-Bezzola: Our aim is to achieve the best possible impact for society within the conflicting goals of economic success, environmental action and social responsibility. This holistic approach is also critical for Swiss Post’s long-term success and existence. If we viewed each of these three issues in isolation, we would risk missing out on opportunities for the company and our stakeholders. That’s why Swiss Post always pursues both financial and non-financial goals. We plan to embed this idea within the company even more consciously in future. Sustainability is part of Swiss Post’s identity − yesterday, today and tomorrow, too. We don’t just expect to meet society’s needs; we also aim to lead by example as an enterprise affiliated with the Confederation. Our ambition is clear: Switzerland must be more sustainable with Swiss Post than without it.
Climate and energy activities will remain our focus in 2025 and beyond.
The strategy period ends in 2024. What priorities do you anticipate for the coming years?
Stefan Bojanic: Swiss Post is currently drawing up its strategy for 2025 to 2028. Corporate responsibility will still be a key component. We are now analysing completed projects, evaluating ongoing measures and reviewing the viability of our priorities as regards content. One thing is already clear: the issue of the environment, with a focus on climate and energy, will stay at the center of our activities in 2025 and beyond. Our responsibility as an employer and Swiss institution will also remain key. Besides these issues, we see three business development areas that will enable us to consolidate corporate responsibility as the core of our business. Firstly, integrating sustainability into our corporate strategy and decisions. Secondly, guaranteeing a holistic viewpoint across the company. And thirdly, developing management of non-financial performance. We need to act and not simply react.