Sustainability ambassador program spreads company message

The Corporate Academy has launched its 2021 Aramco Sustainability Ambassador Program (ASAP).

The new program cohort consists of outbound Advanced Degree Program participants and College Degree Program Non-Employees who will learn about Aramco’s sustainability efforts.

Nabil K. Al-Dabal, vice president of Human Resources, said at the virtual launch that the program is directly aligned with the company’s strategy to develop and enable its young professionals to represent Aramco on a global stage.

“As we continue to focus on growing our sustainability portfolio, it is crucial to engage our young people,” Al-Dabal said.

“The company has invested in their development, and we are excited to prepare them to show the world how important this issue is for Aramco and for our future,” he said.

ASAP just in time

Abdullah Z. Al Otaibi, acting general manager of Training and Development, at the launch said that climate change was our era’s defining issue, and a critical focus area for Aramco and the Kingdom.

“The ASAP is timely and fully aligned with Aramco’s objectives, showcasing the organization’s commitment to sustainable development for internal and external stakeholders,” Al Otaibi said. 

Matthew G. Bateson, chief climate and sustainability officer from Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Strategy and Reporting, said the company strives to have an influential impact within the energy industry by reducing emissions, helping prevent climate change, and increasing involvement in biodiversity.

“Contrary to popular belief, sustainability is not only associated with the environment; it also combines and balances environmental, economic, and social factors,” Bateson said. 

Aramco is actively engaging in the climate discussion as a founding member of the Oil and Gas Climate Initiative, and a member of the International Petroleum Industry Environmental Conservation Association.

Sustainability shapes strategy

The company has a green energy program for forestation and recycling, a greenhouse gas emissions management program, and a biodiversity program.

Yasser M. Mufti, vice president of Strategy and Market Analysis, pointed out how sustainability shapes and defines the company’s business strategy.

“I believe it is essential that we equip our employees with the right understanding of this topic, and demonstrate how Aramco has and will continue to create long-term ESG value,” said Mufti.

Musaab M. Al Mulla, director of Global Economic and Energy Analysis in the Global Analysis Department, said, “The oil and gas industry will continue to play a key role in meeting economic development, as well as energy access in the future as both are a part of sustainability.

“This is where Aramco’s role comes as a leader in oil and gas,” Al Mulla added.

Previous participants

The launch takes place after 20 ASAP participants completed their program from last year.

A previous participant, Abdulaziz A. Johar, a reliability engineer from the Shaybah Producing Department, said, “I personally enjoyed the program as it was resourceful, and has prepared us to represent Aramco and Saudi Arabia in the right manner.”

Another previous participant, Hala A. Alwagdani, an exploration geoscientist from the Eastern Area Exploration Department, said, “I have learned more about sustainability, and I feel capable to knowledgably navigate the topic in a way that benefits the company.”