Apa Nova 2023 Sustainability Report: Lower CO₂ emissions, more renewables, thermal energy from sewage

Apa Nova, Bucharest’s water supply and sewerage service provider, has published its 2023 sustainability report highlighting the solutions implemented, the achievements, and the company’s commitment to sustainable development. With a particular focus on accountability, the report demonstrates the integration of sustainability principles into every aspect of operations, in line with the new European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) and the methodology set out in the Romanian Sustainability Code.

In 2023, Apa Nova achieved significant progress, recording CO₂ emission reductions of 623 tons through the use of photovoltaic panels, increasing the share of renewable sources in total energy consumption to 42% and reducing the carbon intensity of operations by 5% compared to the previous year. The company also achieved a 91.07% realization rate in implementing action plans to protect the natural environment and biodiversity in sensitive areas.

Strategic investments and innovation efforts materialized in key projects such as the construction of photovoltaic energy production units, with a total value of 7.7 million euros, and a pilot project for the recovery of thermal energy from sewage water, with an investment of approximately one million lei. Apa Nova also invested 1.3 million lei in the purchase of electric vehicles for its fleet, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to reduce the environmental impact of the company’s activities.

“We are confident in achieving the sustainability goals we have assumed given the significant progress we have made in 2023, by reducing carbon emissions and increasing the use of renewable energy sources. Our investments in modern infrastructure and innovative technologies reflect our continued commitment to a sustainable future for all Bucharest residents. We will continue to strive to develop sustainable projects and adapt our strategies to meet the needs of today, but more importantly of tomorrow, ensuring a greener future for our community,” said Mădălin Mihailovici, General Manager of Apa Nova București.

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In 2023, Apa Nova distributed a volume of drinking water of about 9.55 million cubic meters to the neighboring localities and took a volume of wastewater of about 12.61 million cubic meters. At the same time, the efficiency of the drinking water supply system was assessed at 77.87%, 5.87% above the target standard of 72%. Another notable aspect highlighted in the sustainability report is the reduction of waste from water treatment and purification equipment by 24.7%, thus exceeding the target set for 2023.

In addition, Apa Nova managed to eliminate work accidents with temporary incapacity in 2023, recording a decrease from three cases in 2022 to zero in 2023. In terms of human resources development, the company provided an average of 50 hours of professional training per employee, thus promoting a safe and progress-friendly work environment.

Apa Nova’s sustainability performance is also internationally recognized. The assessment of the independent rating agency EcoVadis placed the operator in the top 10 worldwide, with an overall score of 45/100. As part of the “Sustainable Supply Chain Finance” program, developed with banking partners, the EcoVadis ESG score is integrated into the interest calculation, facilitating suppliers’ access to finance and supporting cash flows.

Apa Nova București reaffirms its commitment to invest in environmental protection and to continue the development of sustainable projects, with an investment plan of approximately RON 9 million by 2024. The company will continue implementing environmental, social, and governance projects, ensuring a long-term positive impact on the community and the environment.
The 2023 Sustainability Report is available in full at: https://www.apanovabucuresti.ro/assets/pdf/Raport-de-Sustenabilitate-Apa-Nova-2023.pdf.