“Sustainability is in our DNA”

Allinq is making its work processes more and more sustainable. But how well is Allinq actually doing? EcoVadis has the answer to that question. It assesses the sustainability of organizations on aspects such as the environment, labor, human rights, ethics, and procurement. “We score silver”, QHSSE coordinator Hans van Eck shares with pride. “Worldwide, we are now in the sustainability top 25% of the telecom industry.”

“Sustainability is in our DNA”, Hans begins. “We comply with environmental laws and regulations and are constantly looking for ways to do business more sustainably. Our motto is “connecting everyone”. This can only be achieved in the real world, by properly handling the materials and energy we use. It is important to take care of the planet while doing so.”

Repairing or upgrading

Allinq works as energy and climate neutral as possible. In the case of defective equipment, technicians first check whether it is necessary to use new materials. Often they can modify, repair or upgrade parts so that the equipment can last for years to come. Or they are looking at sustainable alternatives, such as recycled plastic for fiberglass tubes. It is a matter of researching, trying, and testing. Replacement is the last conceivable option, partly due to the current scarcity of chips and other raw materials and the long delivery times. “Sustainability is certainly not expensive”, says the QHSSE coordinator. “We offer our clients solutions that save raw materials and therefore costs.”

Electric driving

Allinq’s fleet is large and consists of more than 400 passenger cars and delivery vans. Hans: “We want to reduce CO2 emissions, but still offer the same service. And, for example, being able to be on-site quickly in the event of a technical malfunction.” An electric scooter is now in use at projects in the north and in Amsterdam, which means that technicians can reach a location more quickly. Leasing electric passenger cars is also possible. This is being investigated for delivery vehicles. Allinq closely follows developments of sustainable alternatives, such as hydrogen and Bio-CNG.

Benefits for the environment

Another aspect on which Allinq scores high on the sustainability ladder is coordinating or combining journeys. “As a result, we save a lot of time, kilometers, and fuel, which is highly beneficial for the environment. Supplying the company vans often takes place in the evening or at night at the mechanics’ doorstep. They then drive directly to their first appointment and do not have to go to the warehouse first. We ensure that the delivery process runs as efficiently as possible.”

Silver medal

EcoVadis assesses corporate social responsibility. Not only whether you separate waste, but also how you deal with terms of employment, equality, privacy, the environment, and diversity. “We are pleased with our silver medal for the international telecom industry,” says Hans. “Silver is nice, but gold is better. We know where we stand, now we are going to make our sustainable commitment measurable and communicable. For example, we want to provide insight into how much material we save annually and what that yields for the environment. As a result, awareness is growing among employees, clients, and suppliers.

Whatever CO₂ we still emit, we buy off. Think of planting trees or making additional investments in sustainable energy projects.”