VDM Metals is part of the Acerinox Group and forms the High Performance Alloys (HPA) division. Sustainability-oriented processes and structures play a prominent role within the Acerinox Group and all Group companies strive to continuously improve their social, environmental and economic performance. EcoVadis assesses companies in terms of their measures relating to the environment, employment and human rights, sustainable procurement and ethics/compliance. With a score of 77 points (previous year: 71), VDM Metals is among the top three percent of all companies assessed by EcoVadis in terms of sustainability.

The evaluation by EcoVadis takes place in several steps. The main element of the data collection is a questionnaire that covers the topics of environment, labor and human rights, sustainable procurement and ethics/compliance. All information must be supported by suitable evidence. In a further step, the evaluation is carried out by EcoVadis.

In the area of the environment, the measures taken to date are assessed as consistently positive. These include, for example, recycling and reuse of water, use of waste heat recovery systems or combined heat and power units.  Greater energy efficiency has been achieved through the modernization of technologies and equipment.

In the area of labour and human rights, regulated collectively agreed working conditions and income and occupational safety standards as well as various health campaigns for VDM Metals employees were identified as strengths, as was the extensive training and development program for employees.

VDM Metals scored particularly well in the area of ethics. The consistent and regular training courses on ethics and compliance as well as corruption prevention to raise awareness among all employees are considered a strength of VDM Metals and were rated positively, as was the existing whistleblower system.

VDM Metals addresses the issue of sustainable procurement with appropriate guidelines. Through the integration of corresponding clauses in supply contracts, regular supplier evaluations and relevant training and courses for purchasers, this area with its various measures was also evaluated positively.