| Title | Polaris renewable energy, empowering communities |
|---|---|
| Authors | M. Bascope, J. Lawless |
| Year | 2024 |
| Conference | New Zealand Geothermal Workshop |
| Keywords | Nicaragua, San Jacinto, Sustainability, Communities, Social investment, , Community Development, Stakeholder Engagement, Social impact, Community empowering, Materiality, Strategy |
| Abstract | As a Company, the opportunity to make a positive impact, while investing in our projects is a fundamental driver of our commitment to Sustainability. We are committed to contribute to the neighbouring communities of the projects we operate in, prioritizing those activities and projects of sustainable development and social investment that mean substantive changes in the quality of life and well-being of the entire community. We are determined to foster the local economy by maximizing local employment and procurement opportunities. For us, it is important to build trust-based relationships with all stakeholders while maintaining active listening and promoting open channels of consultation and participation. This philosophy is fundamental to align our Company with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), mitigate risks, build positive relationships, and generate a significant and lasting impact on the communities where we operate. For many years, starting with our operations in the San Jacinto-Tizate Geothermal Power Plant in Nicaragua, we have focused our community development efforts in areas that we consider fundamental, such as education, community infrastructure, agriculture, health and sports. This program positively impacts the lives of five communities and approximately 5,000 people. The social impact generated by the different actions we have carried out, whether small or large, have contributed to the fact that these communities are now more resilient; with access to water services, that positively impacts their human rights; with children and youth more prepared for life; with small producers that are now properly technified and equipped; as well as communities supported by infrastructure that assists healthy recreation and integration. In this way, our management has demonstrated that engaging positively with local communities helps to build trust and gain support for our projects and its operations. |