China General Nuclear Power Group (CGN) released its 2023 Sustainable Development Report in Chinese, English, and French at a press conference held in Paris, France, on June 23, during which they announced the company's efforts in implementing its sustainable development principles, fulfilling its social responsibilities, and protecting the environment.
China General Nuclear Power Group (CGN) releases its 2023 Sustainable Development Report in Chinese, English, and French at a press conference held in Paris, France, on June 23. [Photo/CGN]
As an international clean energy company, CGN has been committed to the development of nuclear power and is increasing efforts in the growth of clean energy sources, including nuclear, wind, and solar power. It has been practicing the corporate vision of "developing clean energy for the benefit of human society" through tangible actions.
At present, CGN is a clean power supplier in 15 countries and regions worldwide, including France, Malaysia, and Brazil. From 2018 to 2022, CGN's facilities outside its home market generated 237.8 billion kilowatt-hours of clean electricity, equivalent to a reduction in standard coal consumption of 71.7 million tons, or cutting CO2 emissions by 191.43 million tons or afforesting an area spanning 535,100 hectares.
In its international operation, CGN stays true to the principle of achieving shared growth through discussion and collaboration and strives to be an excellent corporate citizen. By the end of 2022, the proportion of local employees in CGN's overseas companies reached 93.31 percent, and the proportion of local management reached 72.73 percent. An increasing number of local employees are also involved in corporate management and operations.
In addition, CGN has been working on environmental cooperation with local communities where its projects are located.
To protect Namibia's national flower, the Welwitschia mirabilis, the company has made several modifications to the design plans of the Husab uranium mine in collaboration with local botanists.
CGN also values and advocates cultural diversity and inclusiveness. It has held a number of events, such as the Husab Cup marathon in Namibia, the Harvest Festival in Brazil, and the Night of Chinese Costume activity, to create strong bonds and foster understanding between people.
Bernard le Guen, a senior Executive (VP) at Electricite de France (EDF), shared photos of his work in China at the press conference, highlighting the long-standing friendship between EDF and CGN and the importance of mutually beneficial cooperation between China and France.
Jan Noterdaeme, Senior Advisor & Co-Founder of CSR Europe, provided a comprehensive and in-depth analysis of CGN's sustainable development report, emphasizing the crucial role of biodiversity and environmental protection in CGN's sustainable development roadmap. Noterdaeme noted that CGN's commitment to health and safety compliance is an integral part of its corporate responsibility.
Asteres think tank expert on energy economics Guillaume Moukala Same underscored the importance of wind power development during the panel session.
"Looking ahead to 2030, the growth of wind power as a viable energy source is expected to have a tremendous economic impact, with a projected net value of 1.1 billion euros and the creation of 17,500 additional jobs. Ultimately, the growth of the industry will have a significant influence on the local economy and employment in the coming years," he said.
Michel Derdevet, professor at the Institut d'Etudes Politiques in Paris and at the College of Europe in Bruges, explained the significance of Sino-French cooperation and the close relationship between nuclear energy and Europe.
"Cooperation between Europe and China in nuclear technology presents an opportunity for a rapid transition from fossil fuels to the extensive development of wind, photovoltaic, and nuclear power. Given the long-standing history of nuclear cooperation between France and China, the development of the partnership is vital for constructing a sustainable energy future," he added.
(Executive editor: Xie Yunxiao)
