We understand the world through sustainability and environmental stewardship is one of the pillars of our sustainability strategy. In 2019 alone, our investment in environmental protection and conservation totaled 26.4 million euros, an uptick of more than 50% from 2017.
Environmental expenses and investments have also increased by 30% relative to the previous year. We increased spending on waste treatment, emission reduction, and land restoration, as well as on environmental management and prevention.
Aware of our role as change-makers in society, we are steadfastly committed to sustainable development. As such, we take part in any initiative that spreads and reinforces environmental values among the citizenry.
We participated in International Clean Air Day, created by the UN and celebrated for the first time in 2020. Air pollution is the greatest environmental risk to human health and one of the leading preventable causes of death and disease worldwide. For that reason we focus on environmental policies aimed at safeguarding air quality, among others.