Natech’s Commitment to ESG: A Blueprint for Sustainable Business

Natech is dedicated to sustainability, aiming to reduce its ecological footprint and enhance resource efficiency through comprehensive management systems and sustainable practices.

Environmental Management
Natech has a well-defined environmental policy with specific targets that are regularly monitored for compliance and improvement. Supported by top management, the company actively upholds and enhances this policy, showcasing its dedication to environmental sustainability. Natech adheres to ISO 14001 standards, integrating them as a core part of daily operations. This certification reflects a systematic approach to environmental management, crucial to Natech’s sustainability efforts.

Resources and Waste Management
Natech prioritizes environmental responsibility, implementing strategies to reduce energy consumption and mitigate environmental impact. The company practices energy conservation, such as turning off lights and managing electricity use, and operates a 500KWh renewable energy park. These initiatives not only have positive environmental effects but also offer cost savings and improve operational efficiency.

Measures for water conservation include installing water-efficient appliances and using drought-resistant plants and xeriscaping. Natech also promotes recycling among employees, encourages digital solutions to minimize paper use, and manages electronic waste through recycling, secure disposal, and refurbishment for donations, supporting a sustainable technology consumption model.

Sustainability Innovation in Products and Services
Natech focuses on serving tier 3-5 financial institutions and banks. Typically based in smaller towns or economically challenged regions, these institutions often lack the funds for expensive core banking and peripheral solutions. Natech has developed tailored solutions to meet their specific needs and constraints, enabling them to operate effectively and provide value to their local communities and clients.

Natech is deeply committed to corporate social responsibility, focusing on community welfare, inclusivity, and innovative products for underserved markets.

Community Involvement and CSR
NNatech actively engages in community initiatives and sponsorships, supporting charitable causes like “The Smile of the Child” and cultural and athletic events, especially in Ioannina, Greece, where the company is headquartered. These efforts build relationships and goodwill within local communities, reflecting a strong commitment to corporate citizenship.

Natech also hosts student visits to its Ioannina headquarters, where the CEO and management mentor students in technology, banking, and business. The company collaborates with the University of Ioannina, offering mentorship at academic events and providing internships. Additionally, the HR department supports and educates young people through various projects, highlighting Natech’s dedication to making a positive impact on the local community.

Impact of Product Innovation
Since its inception, Natech has been dedicated to supporting smaller banks and financial institutions in their daily operations, even before ESG initiatives and widespread compliance awareness became prevalent. Recognizing the financial limitations of many clients, Natech tailored its solutions to be affordable and meet their specific needs. This approach extended to serving clients in small towns and economically challenged areas, reflecting a strong commitment to inclusivity.

This customer-centric strategy enables innovation, providing significant value to clients and end-users and helping smaller financial players overcome unique challenges.

Inclusion (Physical and Online Infrastructures)
Natech emphasizes inclusivity and diversity by ensuring its physical and online infrastructures are accessible to everyone. The company’s website, which operates in English, accommodates individuals with vision difficulties, and its software solutions support Greek and English, with the capability to add other languages. This commitment enhances the user experience and reflects Natech’s dedication to equal opportunities and understanding diverse customer needs, in line with ethical standards. Natech is also enhancing accessibility at its Ioannina and Athens locations by adding ramps, demonstrating the company’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility despite architectural challenges.

Natech is committed to upholding the highest standards of governance, ensuring ethical leadership and integrity in all aspects of its operations.

Board and Management
Natech’s governance structure includes a board of directors selected for their expertise and values, ensuring diverse skills and effective governance. Board members possess strong analytical skills, business acumen, governance experience, industry knowledge, and effective communication skills, all underpinned by a commitment to integrity, accountability, and transparency.

To prevent conflicts of interest, Natech has safeguards in place for board assignments, enhancing decision-making integrity. Regular board meetings and detailed documentation ensure transparency and clear communication with stakeholders. Shareholders are regularly updated, keeping them informed about the company’s situation, goals, and challenges, promoting a proactive response to changes.

Equal Opportunities Policy
Natech ensures equal opportunities for all qualified individuals, without discrimination based on race, religion, sex, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, or other protected statuses. This policy covers all aspects of employment, including recruitment, promotion, training, and compensation. Employment decisions are merit-based and focus on job performance. To foster a respectful, professional, and fair workplace, Natech has implemented policies to prevent potential favoritism or, misuse of authority.

HR Policies and Ethics
Natech is committed to maintaining high ethical standards across its workforce, actively updating its code of conduct to reinforce these principles. The company has a clean record, with no history of bribery, corruption, or reported unethical behaviors. In alignment with international standards, Natech has introduced a whistleblowing policy, encouraging the reporting of any potential wrongdoing.

The board and management team lead by example, upholding the company’s code of conduct and ethical values, which are foundational to the organization’s integrity. This ethical leadership promotes a positive organizational culture, encouraging ethical decision-making at all levels. This commitment enhances trust internally and externally, significantly contributing to Natech’s sustained success and credibility.

Vendor Selection
In choosing vendors, Natech prioritizes shared values and aligned business principles. This approach is essential for building and maintaining long-term relationships. While ESG criteria have not yet been formally incorporated into vendor selection processes, they are considered potential future additions, ensuring that vendor relationships align with the company’s sustainability and ethical standards.

Natech is dedicated to the ongoing enhancement of its ESG practices, regularly reviewing performance, setting new targets, and adapting to regulatory and market changes. This proactive approach ensures that Natech leads in sustainable business practices, aiming for excellence in all ESG aspects.

Natech’s commitment to ESG reflects a deep dedication to sustainability, social responsibility, and ethical governance. While there are areas for growth, particularly in environmental management and governance, the company’s focus on transparency and ethical practices is evident.

By integrating these principles into its operations, Natech not only enhances its business performance but also contributes positively to society and the environment. As Natech continues to refine its ESG strategies, it aims to set a benchmark for others in the fintech industry, demonstrating that responsible and sustainable business practices are key to long-term success and societal well-being.