“3D Systems was founded on a spirit of innovation, and the work we do makes an impact on businesses, people’s lives and our environment,” said Dr. Jeffrey Graves, president, and CEO, 3D Systems. “With the launch of our ESG platform, we’re formalizing the commitment to the values and operating principles that have been part of the fabric of our company since its inception. We’re making an impact and proud to be part of a movement for change.”
The 3D Systems ESG initiative includes three areas which are core to the company’s daily operations:
Environmental Responsibility highlights the commitment to identifying and advocating for more sustainable options to reduce 3D Systems’ and its customers’ effect on the environment by replacing, optimizing, and creating processes that will help eliminate waste and reduce carbon emissions. Additive manufacturing plays a vital role in sustainability efforts through optimized part designs. For example, an airplane component can now weigh less yet perform more efficiently resulting in lowered fuel costs and environmental impact. Additionally, because additive manufacturing only uses the material needed to produce the final part, there is substantially less production waste than traditional manufacturing. 3D Systems has also undertaken efforts within the company to reduce its carbon footprint. In 2019, 3D Systems reduced its real estate assets by 10% resulting in lowering CO2 emissions by nearly 2.8 million pounds.
Social Responsibility demonstrates an alliance with social causes and giving back to the communities where its employees live and work. 3D Systems’ efforts as the COVID-19 pandemic escalated showcased its desire to give back as the company issued a call to action to its customers and partners to share resources – producing and delivering much needed nasopharyngeal swabs, ventilator valves, and PPE. This month, the company also launched the 3D Systems Gives Back global giving campaign. This platform allows 3D Systems employees, families, and friends to donate to charities that are providing much-needed assistance for the COVID-19 response, as well as those advancing efforts that target social justice and diversity.
Responsible Practices & Governance whereby the company holds itself accountable to ethical and responsible practices and policies, including those related to employee health and safety. For 3D Systems, conducting its business on a highly ethical level is at the core of its business principles. The company’s Code of Conduct sets the ethical and legal standards of behavior and business practices that are required of all its employees and those of its subsidiaries globally. As a result, 3D Systems requires all board members and employees to complete training and certify compliance with its Code annually. 3D Systems’ employees are vital to the organizations’ success, and their health and safety is the company’s number one priority. As a result, 3D Systems not only continues to invest in safety standards and wellness policies and programs, but the company also continues to exceed industry-wide safety targets. For example, in 2019 3D Systems reported an incident rate of 0.72 which is 76% lower than the additive manufacturing industry standard of 3.0
