Upsolar, an international provider of solar PV modules, was recently ranked as the fourth most sustainable and socially responsible PV module manufacturer worldwide. The distinction comes as part of the 2013 Solar Scorecard from the Silicon Valley Toxics Coalition (SVTC).
The SVTC Solar Scorecard assesses module producers corporate social and environmental responsibility (CSER) efforts to serve as a resource for consumers, potential partners and other key industry stakeholders. To compile its list, the SVTC analyzes key components of companies manufacturing processes, including emissions, materials, supply chain, energy consumption and labor.
Upsolar earned maximum scores in the areas of Emissions Transparency, Module Toxicity and Biodiversity, underscoring the organizations commitment to environmental and social stewardship through its sustainability initiatives. As one of the first solar providers to commission a comprehensive life cycle assessment (LCA) on its products, Upsolar works to ensure the company is maintaining the highest standards throughout its manufacturing process.
"From our trusted supply chain partners to our exceptional labor practices, Upsolars CSER initiatives are a pillar of our business. Our position on the Solar Scorecard is a strong validator for our efforts, and we are proud to see our name near the top of this list," said Zhe Jiang, CEO of Upsolar. "At the same time, we recognize that there is still much room for growth both within our organization and across the entire industry. Ultimately, our shared goal must be to optimize operations to make the module business as clean as the energy it produces."