MRS is strongly committed to its progress in ESG aspects and, to achieve the expected results, since 2021 it has the support of an external consultancy, which supported the Company in diagnosing and monitoring ESG performance. This process resulted in the definition of development goals that led the areas to adopt a series of indicators and implement various actions.
Aligned with the new Company cycle enabled by the renewal of the concession agreement signed in 2022 (learn more in Concession Operation), MRS updated its strategic framework after listening to different audiences, such as its employees, customers, government and society.
The new strategic framework called MRS Essence, is in line with ESG aspects, and is not only an inspiring content, but also a guideline for its business strategy and fundamental for the dissemination of a culture aligned to its strategic objectives.
New MRS Strategic Framework
Beliefs
The best logistic solutions go through the railroad. We are essential and we have the power to improve society and our surroundings.
It is the great inspiration and cause for all, which leads us to undertake a Purpose.
Purpose
To create and operate integrated logistics solutions that are increasingly competitive and reliable, thereby delivering results and well-being to society.
It is the Company’s raison d’être and the positive impact it seeks to cause. It guides the organization on how to put its beliefs into practice.
Aspirations
To be the provider of choice in integrated logistics, through more sustainable and profitable solutions. To be recognized and admired for its integrity and its positive impact on society and the environment.
It is the result to be achieved in a given period. It is the North Star that helps guide people in the organization.
Principles
• Integrity – Diversity – Focus on the customer – Openness to the new – Agility – Excellence – People – Safety
These are the limits, guides, the criteria that define the proper operation of the organization.
MRS Principles
Integrity
Fulfilling commitments, respecting others and being attentive to their well-being allows the Company to mitigate risks and build long-lasting relationships.
Safety
It is prerequisite for MRS operation. Stable systems and machinery ensure reliable relations with the railroad’s surroundings and are key to the business’ longevity.
Excellence
The relentless pursuit of improvement in our operational and management standards is the assurance of the Company’s competitiveness.
People
MRS engaged people make the difference. Inspiring, developing, and valuing deliveries allows talents to be more protagonist, collaborative, and achieve higher goals.
Focus on the customer
Each customer is unique. By assuming their perspectives and understanding their challenges, the Company will be able to exceed their expectations.
Agility
Agility is a matter of survival. MRS values simplicity, as it uncomplicates, facilitates understanding, creates security and streamlines decisions.
Diversity
Different perspectives are welcome. The greater the diversity and inclusion in an environment, the greater the potential to innovate and overcome challenges with efficiency and agility.
Openness to the new
Continuous learning and constant search for knowledge enables the Company to innovate and tread new paths.
With a five-year business plan, MRS has the investments resulting from the renewal of the concession agreement as a large part of the initiatives planned for the period, without neglecting the efforts to move forward on the ESG agenda.
In 2022, some works provided for in the new agreement have already started. An example is a large investment to improve rail access to the Port of Santos, which will allow MRS to more than double the volume transported by railroad up to 2056, reaching 109 million tons/year. Other highlight is the track segregation project in the state of São Paulo, the largest work set forth in the agreement and which will enable MRS to directly contribute to improving social mobility in several municipalities and significantly increase its production. (Learn more about the projects included in the new operation concession here).
Also important in 2022, was the progress of the Major Track Interventions project, which has been underway in phases for a number of years. The Company received the ballast cleaner acquired in 2020. Together with other equipment, the cleaner will support MRS in maintaining the railway structure to a very high standard. The project will be responsible for replacing wooden railway ties with concrete railway ties, promoting environmental and economic benefits.
In ESG aspects, the Company started to use one of the best software for management and control of suppliers, gaining more in-depth assessment and control of aspects of the agenda among its partners (learn more at Suppliers). In a further advance, it saw an increase in the number of women in the Company and in leadership positions and created a Diversity Committee (learn more here). It is also worth mentioning, among several initiatives, the kick-off of a robust project to expand the use of polymer sprinklers, mitigating a negative impact of the Company’s operations and improving air quality (learn more here).
For the next few years, MRS will continue to invest in works and other improvements driven by the renewal of the concession agreement and will concentrate efforts on advancing environmental, social and governance aspects.
