Consolidated Communications Releases 2021 Environmental, Social and Governance Report

Rhea-AI Summary

Consolidated Communications (NASDAQ: CNSL) has released its 2021 Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Report, showcasing its commitment to sustainability and community engagement. The report outlines key ESG initiatives, including significant investments exceeding $364 million for broadband in rural areas and achievements in reducing emissions and enhancing diversity. CEO Bob Udell emphasized the company's role in providing reliable services and fostering strong community connections. Detailed ESG activities are available at consolidated.com/esg.

Positive

• Invested over $364 million to improve broadband services in rural areas.
• Established critical environmental goals, including renewable energy use and emission reductions.
• Achieved a year-over-year reduction in gasoline consumption by fleet vehicles.
• Launched a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council to promote workplace diversity.
• Transitioned to annual board elections, enhancing governance.

Negative

• None.

MATTOON, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Consolidated Communications (NASDAQ: CNSL), a top 10 fiber provider, today announced the release of its 2021 Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Report, detailing the integration of essential elements of ESG standards in its everyday operations.

The report illustrates the company’s commitment to its customers, employees, investors, business partners and communities as guided by its mission and values. In line with its operations and the critical services it provides, the company is focused on growing and continually integrating four key elements of ESG within its business: The Environment; Our People; Our Communities; and Governance and Accountability.

“As a leading fiber broadband provider across a 20-plus state service area, we continue executing on the largest fiber expansion project in our Company’s history,” said Bob Udell, president and chief executive officer. “Consolidated’s role in our communities has never been more important. Our company values and principles inspire us to be good neighbors, to deliver the most reliable services through a great customer experience and to connect people in all that we do.”

Consolidated’s report, available at consolidated.com/esg, includes ESG activity from 2021 and highlights notable accomplishments and progress the company is making including:

• Establishing critical environmental goals around our everyday operations in areas such as the increased use of renewable energy, reductions in water consumption, reductions in Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions and institution of broader waste, reuse and recycling programs;
• Finalizing its first community solar initiative agreement;
• Achieving a significant year over year reduction in gasoline consumed by company fleet vehicles;
• Investing more than $364 million to deliver better broadband services to rural communities;
• Establishing a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council and an Employee Advisory Council;
• Implementation of a new Code of Safety Practices for contractors;
• Providing $60,000 in support for schools through its Consolidated Connects Educational Grant Program and $1.4 million in total community support; and
• Transitioning from a staggered board of directors’ structure to holding annual elections.

About Consolidated Communications

Consolidated Communications Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: CNSL) is dedicated to moving people, businesses and communities forward by delivering the latest reliable communications solutions. Consumers, businesses and wireless and wireline carriers depend on Consolidated for a wide range of high-speed internet, data, phone, security, cloud and wholesale carrier solutions. With a network spanning more than 50,000 fiber route miles, Consolidated is a top 10 U.S. fiber provider, turning technology into solutions that are backed by exceptional customer support. Learn more at consolidated.com. Connect with us on social media.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220329005267/en/

Jennifer Spaude, Consolidated Communications

507.386.3765, jennifer.spaude@consolidated.com

Shannon Sullivan, Consolidated Communications

603.656.1521, shannon.sullivan@consolidated.com

Source: Consolidated Communications

FAQ

What is the latest ESG report from Consolidated Communications (CNSL) about?

The 2021 ESG report outlines Consolidated Communications' commitment to sustainability, featuring initiatives like investments in renewable energy and community support.

How much did Consolidated Communications invest in broadband services for rural communities in 2021?

Consolidated Communications invested over $364 million in 2021 to enhance broadband services in rural areas.

What are the key environmental goals of Consolidated Communications as per their ESG report?

The key environmental goals include increased renewable energy use, reduced water consumption, and lower Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions.

When did Consolidated Communications transition to annual board elections?

Consolidated Communications transitioned from staggered board elections to annual elections, as highlighted in their recent ESG report.