Sustainability Standards

Bekaert’s responsible performance in 2023 has been recognized by its inclusion in the ISS ESG Screened Developed Markets Small Cap Index, the Solactive ISS ESG Screened Europe Small Cap Index, the ISS ESG Screened Paris Aligned Developed Markets Small Cap Index and the ISS SDG Aligned Global Markets All Cap Index - a reference benchmark for top performers in terms of corporate social responsibility based on Vigeo - Eiris’ research – as well as in Kempen SRI.

In 2023 rating agencies MSCI and ISS-ESG have analyzed the Environment, Social and Governance performance of our company, based on our publicly available information. Their reports are used by institutional investors and financial service companies. Bekaert received a rating of 'AA' in the MSCI ESG Ratings assessment (above average) and 'C' rating in the ISS-ESG rating (on a scale from D- to A+), which is on average within the sector.

Bekaert received a silver level in the EthiFinance 2023 campaign, based on its 2022 data disclosures. EthiFinance is an independent financial and nonfinancial rating, research and consulting agency.

In consideration of Bekaert's medium exposure and strong management, Morningstar Sustainalytics rated Bekaert to be at medium risk of material financial impacts driven by ESG factors. Morningstar Sustainalytics provides high-quality, analytical environmental, social and governance (ESG) research, ratings and data to institutional investors and companies.

Bekaert was awarded, for the company’s 2022 data disclosures, a gold recognition level from EcoVadis. Bekaert obtained a score of 75, which positions us in the 97th percentile of the peer group, unchanged from the previous year. EcoVadis is an independent sustainability rating agency whose methodology is built on international CSR standards.

In response to growing interest throughout the supply chain to report on the carbon footprint of operations and logistics, Bekaert also participates in the Climate Change and Supply Chain questionnaires of CDP. Bekaert received a B level for the Climate Change listing based on 2022 data disclosures.

Bekaert received an 'A' score in CDP’s Supplier Engagement Rating (SER), and is therewith a 'CDP Supplier Engagement Leader'. The Supplier Engagement Rating evaluates the companies’ engagement on climate issues in their value chain, both with suppliers and with customers. Bekaert received a 'B' score for CDP's Water questionnaire, a high score for our first participation.