Sustainability
As a social organisation in the tradition of Saint Francis, we take responsibility for people, the environment and resources and promote ecological, social and economic sustainability.
Sustainability As a social organisation in the tradition of Saint Francis, we take responsibility for people, the environment and resources and promote ecological, social and economic sustainability.
Definition of
"Sustainability" was first defined in 1987 in the United Nations Brundtland Report, which states: "Sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs."
The GFO understands sustainability as a complex and multi-faceted concept that goes far beyond simple environmental protection. It refers to the ability to organise human activities in such a way that they are viable for the GFO and beyond in the long term and do not place excessive demands on economic, ecological and social resources.
Economic sustainability refers to the economic practices and strategies aimed at ensuring long-term financial stability. We are responsible for utilising (natural and human) resources in a way that maximises efficiency and minimises waste. In the same way, the GFO is open to innovation and technological progress, such as digitalisation, which will contribute to improved efficiency in the long term. Planning plays a major role here in order to be able to guarantee the GFO's services in the long term. Last but not least, the GFO assumes social responsibility by including society and the environment in our actions, offering fair labour practices, acting ethically and playing a supportive role in the community.
Ecological sustainability focuses on the protection and preservation of the natural environment. Negative impacts of GFO's activities on ecosystems must be minimised in order to preserve biodiversity. GFO is committed to protecting biodiversity and natural habitats in order to preserve the ecological balance and strengthen the resilience of ecosystems. With the help of our sustainability strategy, we aim to minimise emissions of pollutants into the air, water and soil. We rely on renewable resources to minimise the consumption of non-renewable resources and are actively involved in combating climate change by reducing CO2 emissions and promoting renewable energies.
Social sustainability emphasises the importance of social justice and the well-being of people. GFO is committed to social justice, promoting equal opportunities and social inclusion as an employer and through its offerings to society. We ensure fair working conditions through collectively agreed wages, safe working environments and respect for human rights . We promote social cohesion and the integration of communities through education, healthcare and social services. To this end, we stand for democratic structures and transparency to ensure that community needs and interests are taken into account.