In Conversation with Jihad Raad, Havelock One
Havelock One, is a returning Global Advocate sponsor to Surge for Water’s ‘Design, Dine, Make a Difference’ Gala. Shilpa Alva, Surge’s Founder, and Jihad Raad, Division Director, Havelock One, sat down to discuss Havelock One’s sponsorship, commitment to the environment, and more.
Why was it important for Havelock One to sponsor Surge?
Water is an important subject in this arid region in terms of how we’re sourcing it, how we are using it and how we are saving it. Water is life at the end of the day. Havelock One has embarked on a sustainability journey, and we are set to get better mileage in the coming years to make the topic an integral part of our day-to-day operations. We thought water was a good place to start because of its strategic importance in the Gulf region.
The theme of this year’s Gala is GAIA, and it’s all about being one with nature and protecting the environment. Can you talk a little bit about what your company has done or is planning to do to be more environmentally sustainable?
We’re doing a number of things. One of them is looking at our operations – we’ve got motion-sensor lighting to manage our energy use. We are also looking to partner with companies that take our leftover production material and use it responsibly. Furthermore, we recycle polishing material so that we can reuse solvents. And of course, we practice responsible vendor selection. Havelock One is FSC certified, therefore, we’re able to cater to projects that are FSC-compliant.
We want to do these things carefully and walk the talk effectively and efficiently. We are getting more and more familiar with how it’s done right, and we keep taking steps forward.
That’s really great! What has been the motivation to move in this direction?
What has really driven it is the need to have a purpose. Purpose; a business cannot just be about margins, profits, shareholder value, etc. We also need to be doing things with a strong sense of purpose and making sure that we are acting responsibly for future generations. That’s the biggest motivator.
That’s really incredible. Are you seeing the industry change in a way where there’s more demand for sustainable solutions?
I think there’s a massive movement in that direction. Everybody’s aware of the need to change. COP26 recently highlighted the fact that there should be a solid commitment. Nobody should underestimate the further damage caused by neglecting our impact and responsibility. This is not something to do for leisure, this is a must. It’s a critical action that must be done and we must all contribute.
In terms of our suppliers, we’re trying to engage with suppliers who are also catering to this mandate and demand. With clients, there’s been a massive wave to think and act sustainably. We recently attended the Arabian Hospitality Conference, and almost half of the show was about sustainability and sustainable practices. It’s great to see that there is such responsiveness. We’re happy to be playing an active part in the process by enabling and supporting it more.
Clearly your company is doing lots of things to be sustainable and to protect water. How have you seen that impact your own life?
That’s part of our DNA as a family. We’ve been recycling for several years. Even my kids, when they are visiting Bahrain, we take bags to the beach and we collect bottles and plastics. A few hours of doing that helps, and if everybody grabs a few bags and goes to the beach, imagine what an impact this would have!
Havelock One is driven by the need to have a purpose – not just a purpose based on profits and margins, but a purpose based on acting responsibly for future generations. Surge is thankful for Havelock One’s commitment to Mother Earth and for their continued support.