Sands China: leading the way in sustainability and corporate responsibility

Sands China Ltd. has emerged as a beacon of corporate responsibility and sustainable development over the last two decades.

The company has not only established itself as a leader in the integrated resort industry but has also made significant strides in supporting the local community and fostering sustainable practices.

This year, the gaming operator had a remarkable achievement of earning Top 1% rankings in both the China and Global editions of the S&P Global Sustainability Yearbook 2024.

This prestigious recognition reflects its unwavering commitment to excellence in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices.

At Sands China, the group believes in making a positive impact through its three pillars of corporate responsibility: People, Community, and Planet.

With the dedicated efforts of its 26,000 team members and valued community partners, the gaming operator is the only company in the Casinos & Gaming industry to achieve this significant distinction from S&P Global.

Sands China has been a cornerstone of Macau’s workforce development, standing tall as the city’s largest private employer, having catalyzed the local tourism industry by creating more than 1,400 diverse job types and providing over 90,000 employment opportunities for Macau residents.

Supporting local  communities

Sands China’s commitment to community support is evident in its long-standing partnership with Caritas Macau.

Pun Chi Meng, Secretary-General of Caritas Macau, emphasizes the company’s role in providing essential resources.

“Sands China has always shouldered its corporate social responsibility and given back to the community,” he states. Their extensive volunteer efforts have been crucial in supporting various social enterprises, including Caritas.

Reflecting on a significant moment, Pun recalls how Sands China responded during Typhoon Hato in 2017: “When the typhoon hit Macau, many of our service vehicles were flooded and ruined. Sands China immediately donated to Caritas Macau and even lent us their vehicles and drivers.” This generous act allowed Caritas to maintain vital services for patients in need, showcasing Sands China’s unwavering commitment to community welfare.

Pun expresses gratitude for the ongoing support: “I hope that Sands China can continue to support Caritas Macau and other social enterprises, thereby providing loving help in times of need.” This commitment fosters awareness of disadvantaged groups and promotes a harmonious community.

Caring for community and environment

Sands China’s corporate social responsibility extends far beyond its properties.

The company actively engages in charity work and has organized or participated in more than 650 volunteer activities over the years to help address the needs of disadvantaged groups.

Through partnerships with local organizations and educational institutions, Sands China is making a significant impact on both the community and the environment. In one of its initiatives, the company helps fast-track nonprofit organizations toward the next stage in their evolution through a unique program, the Sands Cares Accelerator.

Joe Chan, from the small-scale environmental organization Green Future, speaks passionately about the partnership with the company.

“We are honoured to be a partner in the Sands Cares Accelerator program. I would like to thank Sands China for providing various substantive assistance,” he states.

This collaboration has been pivotal in establishing a resource-recycling enterprise and launching various recycling programs, benefiting environmental protection efforts across the region.

Chan recalls a memorable project that highlights Sands China’s commitment: “During a recycling promotional video shoot in a very crowded location, Sands China helped to contact its sources and provided many technical suggestions, which made the shoot a success.”

Nurturing local talent

Sands China is dedicated to nurturing local talent. Matthew T. Liu, PhD, from the University of Macau, emphasizes the impact of the “Professional Diploma in Management Studies for Sands China” program. “Taking part in this program is beneficial to staff career development in many ways,” he notes. The course is designed to enhance management skills across various critical topics, including innovation, finance, and project management.

Liu explains the broader implications of this education: “These skills not only help staff perform well in their roles but also lay a solid foundation for career development.” By welcoming employees without university diplomas, Sands China is opening doors for personal growth and professional advancement.

The collaboration between Sands China and the University of Macau has spanned over a decade, focusing on continuous improvement. “We discuss students’ feedback and up-to-date development trends every year,” Liu shares, highlighting the adaptive nature of the curriculum.

Recent additions include digital management and cross-cultural communication, ensuring that employees are equipped to thrive in a diverse environment.

Boosting social impact

The company has partnered with Clean the World to create impactful hygiene initiatives. “We are deeply grateful for Sands China’s support of Clean the World and applaud their leadership in giving back to underserved communities,” says Shawn Seipler, founder and CEO of Clean the World.

Since 2014, Sands China has assembled an impressive 356,000 hygiene kits, which have been distributed to schools, elderly centers, and various charities.

This initiative not only addresses immediate health needs but also transforms waste into valuable resources. “Their commitment has enabled us to recycle soap that would otherwise end up in landfills,” the representative shares, highlighting the significant social impact of these efforts.

Impressive achievements

Workforce Development: In 2023, Sands China invested an impressive 2.33 million hours in workforce training, showcasing its commitment to nurturing talent

Environmental Stewardship: The company achieved a 17.5% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions ahead of schedule, highlighting its proactive approach to environmental conservation

Community Engagement: The Sands Cares Ambassadors, the company’s volunteer team, have contributed over 310,000 hours of community service, exemplifying Sands China’s dedication to social responsibility