Our People
Addressing improvements for the planet can’t be separated from doing right by people. Ultimately, the complexities of decarbonisation are best solved by humans coming together in a range of ways to make powerful, cumulative change.
We continue to look for ways to enable our people to work safely, fairly and effectively.
Human Rights
It’s essential that the global transition to a decarbonised economy powered by renewable energy is a just transition that’s underpinned by respect for human rights.
Meridian is committed to respecting human rights and recognises human rights as being universal and inherent to us all regardless of nationality, sex or gender, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, language or any other status. Human rights include freedom from slavery, forced labour and child labour, the right to work and take part in cultural life, freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining, a safe and healthy work environment, freedom from discrimination and all other rights included in the International Bill of Human Rights.
We work within the framework of New Zealand’s human rights legislation, prohibitions on discrimination, and New Zealand’s labour laws, which include protections for the right to collective bargaining, equal opportunities and the prevention of unfair treatment on the basis of irrelevant personal characteristics.
We also recognise the indigenous rights of iwi, which are consistent with Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Our Board-approved Code of Conduct reflects this focus.
In addition, Meridian is committed to respecting internationally recognised human rights, in line with the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights. These include all rights under the United Nations International Bill of Human Rights and the principles concerning fundamental rights in the International Labour Organization’s Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work.
Our participation in the United Nations Global Compact means we’re committed to continually aligning our strategies and operations with 10 universally accepted principles in the areas of human rights, labour, environment and anti-corruption.
Diversity & Inclusion
We want our company’s culture to be inclusive, respectful and supportive as well as representative of the society and communities in which we live and operate.
It’s all about creating a workplace where all our people can go to work being their true, whole, authentic selves and feeling safe to be so.
A highly integrated business like ours requires diverse skills and a workforce that’s highly collaborative. Our Belonging programme recognises that diversity is a key requirement in solving current and emerging issues for our business and that, in order for diversified teams to perform well, everyone must feel recognised, welcomed and valued for their experiences and perspectives.
Tackling Zero
Tackling Zero is Meridian’s quarterly newsletter for people whose roles or studies are focused on sustainability, or for whom this is an area of interest. Each issue will offer Meridian’s insights into a topical sustainability issue, as well as stories on how we, our customers and supply chain partners are tackling sustainability. It also includes links to recent Meridian disclosures such as new policies and reports.