Yili Group is recognized as one of the China ESG Model Enterprises. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Dairy giant Yili Group was recognized on Dec 5 as one of the China ESG Model Enterprises, for its leading performance in environmental, social and governance or ESG.

Environmental, Social and Governance is a framework that assesses a company's or investment's sustainability and ethical impact and Yili was conferred with the appellation at the second China ESG Model Awards Ceremony, held in Beijing by the China Media Group.

As the sole dairy enterprise on the list, Yili was said to have demonstrated its exemplary commitment to ESG principles.

Yili's ESG strategy includes pioneering a "carbon footprint + water footprint" dual reduction model across its supply chain.

The company has established five zero-carbon factories, launched five zero-carbon products and participated in developing 13 national and group-level low-carbon standards.

The group has led the transformation of 88 percent of its "Zero Carbon Alliance" suppliers towards low-carbon practices.

Yili Group is one of the country's leading ESG players. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

In the realm of social responsibility, Yili has launched initiatives like the "Yili Nutrition 2030" initiative and the "Senior Nutrition Improvement Program" – which are said to have positively impacted numerous communities, including over 200 neighborhoods in seven provinces.

Yili's sustainability efforts have garnered extensive recognition. It's achieved a top ESG rating from international investment data and analytics services – the highest among Chinese dairy companies – and it has maintained top rankings in multiple Corporate Social Responsibility evaluations.

Looking ahead, Yili is said to remain committed to sustainable development, setting industry benchmarks and fostering collaborative progress.

That's in order to drive higher-quality growth within the health and nutrition sectors.

Yili signs a "Sustainable Palm Oil Procurement Strategic Agreement" with three major international suppliers. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]