OREANDA-NEWS. Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), a leading IT services, consulting and business solutions organization, has been ranked number one amongst the top 100 companies in Asia in the inaugural Channel News Asia Sustainability Ranking. TCS also ranked number one of the top-three most sustainable companies in India. TCS achieved the top rankings against a broad-range of stringent criteria with particular recognition for its initiatives on water conservation and power consumption. Ranking first in the Sustainability Rankings is a strong testament to TCS' adherence to honorable behavior in business as mandated in the Tata Code of Conduct, the guiding principles of the Tata group.

The Sustainability Ranking is a joint initiative between Channel News Asia, CSR Asia and Sustainalytics, the research partner. It is a first of its kind ranking to identify regional corporate sustainability leaders in Asia and lists the Top 100 sustainable companies who were selected on the basis of their sustainability performance across a broad range of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) indicators. The Ranking was officially introduced at the CSR Asia Summit held in Hong Kong, September 16-17.

TCS emerged at the top for criteria including its focus on water conservation, including how rainwater harvesting systems are installed across the buildings it owns, allowing for rapid replenishment of the surrounding groundwater and for its goal to be 100 percent groundwater neutral by 2020. Additionally, TCS was noted for having all new offices worldwide designed in accordance with the LEED Rating System, amongst other criteria.

Loic Dujardin, Director of Research, Sustainalytics, "TCS exhibits strong Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) policies and management systems. By setting quantitative targets with clear deadlines for reducing GHG emissions, understanding that commitment to human capital development will not only be beneficial for its long-term position but also offer brand differentiation and by adopting the Tata Code of Conduct, which aligns its strategies with the ten principles of the UN Global Compact, the company has become a sustainability leader in Asia".

VishIyer, President, TCS Asia Pacific, "It is a great honor and fantastic accomplishment for TCS to be ranked number one overall in the Top100 of the Sustainability Ranking for Asian companies. Being part of Tata group, sustainability is in our DNA. While business performance is closely watched by analysts, getting recognized for sustainable practices reinforces our commitment to this important area. With operations across 46 countries and an employee base of over 300,000 globally, TCS has an impactful sustainability program while delivering industry leading business performance".

The Sustainability Ranking's Top 100 companies were selected on the basis of performance across a broad range of environmental, social and governance (ESG) indicators. These companies rank at the top of their respective industries and among other companies in their region in areas such as environmental initiatives, impact on local communities, treatment of employees and supply-chain management. Top 100 companies are those that demonstrated strong public disclosure on company-wide ESG management and performance. The research process includes a thorough examination of sources including: annual reports, financial reports, CSR reports, CSR websites, news releases, online databases, government sources, NGO research and direct communication with key stakeholders.

Erin Lyon, Executive Director, CSR Asia, "Many congratulations to Tata Consultancy Services, ranked top of the Channel News Asia Sustainability Ranking this year. By disclosing environmental, social and governance information Tata Consultancy Services is enabling investors and other stakeholders to understand the impact of the company on the sustainable development of the region. The ranking identifies leading companies in the region and we look forward to seeing more firms competing for the top spot in years to come."