In line with ASUS’ responsible practices in sustainable procurement, it promotes sustainable procurement projects which involve a wide range of relevant units, including procurement, outsourcing management, human resources, sustainability department, and legal affairs within the organization; and suppliers outside the organization. Sustainable procurement goes beyond traditional procurement thinking. In addition to considering cost, technology, quality, delivery and services, it also incorporates sustainability factors such as the environment, human rights, labor practices, and fair operating practices. In 2019, ASUS obtained the world’s first ISO 20400:2017 sustainable procurement certificate, which proves that ASUS has incorporated sustainable management principles into procurement policies and practices.

ASUS is a big proponent of digital inclusion and believes that all individuals should have equal opportunity to access and utilize information, regardless of their education level, gender, age, ethnicity, or residency. ASUS Foundation was formed in 2008 with the aim of bridging the digital divide. Since then, it has been establishing digital learning centres globally and resolving local digital divide issues in cooperation with non-profit organizations, volunteer groups, and government agencies. In 2018, ASUS has contributed to the establishment of digital schools in 38 nations with over 500 computer classrooms, and the donation of about 15,000 devices, including new notebook computers, refurbished computers, and tablets. In addition to the donation of the devices, ASUS also provided support services through its volunteer activities to promote digital learning and improve the digital skills of children in rural regions, underprivileged students and young adults, women, and the elderly.  Over 550,000 people have benefited from the project.

The ASUS Foundation has been continuously promoting its Refurbished Computer and Digital Training Programme since 2008. In Taiwan, the location of ASUS’ headquarters, it works with recyclers qualified by local governments and sets up free product recycling services and recycling sites. By recycling and repairing discarded computers, usable components can be reassembled, and software can be updated. Thus, waste electronic products can be recycled through reverse logistics, the concept of environmental protection can be promoted, and an information product infrastructure can be established as the first step toward promoting digital learning and bridging the digital divide. This programme is not only one of the company’s most socially influential projects; it is also a good practice scope for the circular economy.

Within ASUS, its people are highly encouraged to actively participate in social services. The ASUS Volunteer Club was established to encourage ASUS employees to participate in domestic and overseas services, share their knowledge and experience, and cultivate new scientific and technological talents. ASUS supports hundreds of employee volunteers each year, as they participate in philanthropic initiatives in countries such as Indonesia, India, Thailand, Philippines, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Tanzania. Assistance is based on local needs, and volunteers provide support in various ways, including teaching basic computer software skills, hosting cultural exchange activities, and tutoring students across a range of subjects.

Moreover, its employees take the initiative to organize fundraising events and collect donations for various charity organizations. In addition to the charity fundraising platform, ASUS also provides a materials collection platform, where employees are encouraged to donate any new or old items which will then be sold for charity or donated.

“ASUS is a big proponent of digital inclusion and believes that all individuals should have equal opportunity to access and utilize information”

Shanggari Balakrishnan, Chief Executive Officer, MORS Group.

“ASUS has evolved from a policy of passive pollution prevention to taking active, preemptive measures with the goal of further detaching economic growth from carbon emissions”

Dr. Jayanthi Desan, Lead Jury, ACES Awards.