Veolia Environnement believes it is imperative that as many people as possible be given easy access to the services it provides. This is a crucial issue in emerging and developing countries. The company shoulders significant roles and responsibilities, not just in terms of facilities and the number of people it serves, but in terms of economic influence. This can also be a challenge in developed countries, helping the most disadvantaged members of the community.
The United Nations' International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR) includes public services such as drinking water and sanitation, street cleaning and waste disposal, energy distribution and public transportation in its definition of basic services essential for people to achieve an adequate standard of living.
Facilitating access to the services
Creating innovative solutions
Veolia Environnement provides innovative social support services to help those in need, including mobile offices, automatic water fountains with prepaid fixed fees, subsidized connections, and continuity of service in the event of payment problems. The company also works with local authorities to provide price adjustments to improve access to water, environmental services, energy and transportation for people suffering hardship. Measures may, for instance, include guaranteeing a set price over time or tailoring charges to people's ability to pay. Veolia Environnement is therefore actively involved in helping local authorities devise policies that promote sustainable development and reduce social inequality.
Reflecting local interests
The company weaves its approach into the fabric of local life by seeking to support small businesses linked to some of its operations within an acceptable social framework. Veolia believes that major developing cities can step up growth in facilities while respecting the balance between new urban services and "traditional" activities.
Teaming up with financial backers
Since 2008, the company has campaigned to strengthen partnerships with financial backers. Veolia Environnement has a reputation as a pioneering partner able to offer valuable expertise together with a range of bodies jointly financing programs linked to its core business activities. In some emerging countries, this partnership may even lead financial backers to acquire a stake in the company's business operations.
In France, Veolia Water has teamed up with Fonds Solidarité Eau, which provides those most in need with targeted financial aid to help pay their water bills. Veolia Water has pledged to write off the debts of a number of customers experiencing payment difficulties.
