Sustainability
At Hi-Q Marine Biotech, we recognize the profound impacts businesses can create on the world, and we firmly believe in the power of responsible and sustainable practices. Businesses, big or small, all play a pivotal role in shaping a better, more equitable future.
ESG stands for “Environmental, Social, and Governance” and is not merely a contemporary buzzword – it is a commitment to ethical conduct, social impact, and environmental sustainability. Fortunately for us, ESG is deeply rooted in our DNA, as we continue to gain better understanding and quantify our corporate footprint, societal responsibilities, and environmental stewardship. As our chairman always says, giving back to society and achieving a virtuous cycle for the genuine well-being of all—nature, health, and happiness—has always been the ongoing pursuit and practice of our company.
Blue Economy
- Sustainable utilization of seaweed from small farmers
Eco-friendly Design
- Green packaging design with refill and recyclability
- Patented energy and water saving fish farm system
Responsible Sourcing
- Sourcing with biodiversity conservation in mind
- FSC packaging
- RSPO ingredients, whenever possible
Resource Optimization
- Upcycling extraction waste to make fish feed
- Resource-conscious product design to maximize value,eg. Hi-Q fish is prepared and used entirely from skin to bone
CSR - Philanthropy
- Financial support, supplement giveaway and travel subsidy for impoverished cancer patients and other vulnerable groups
- One-For-One” Donation of fish for underprivileged children
- Special Need” afternoon platform for kids with special need to get connected with society
CSR - Fair Trade
- Collaborative and fair procurement partnership with local small farmers
- Hi-Q soaps produced by disability groups
Employee Benefits
- Annual Health check-up
- Flexible working hours
- Employee equality and diversity
- Inclusive and welcoming workplace
Ethical Business Conduct
- Code of ethics implementation
- Fair pricing practices
Board Diversity
Regulatory Compliance
- Regular compliance audits
- Monthly employee training & collective activities
Supplier Management
- Strict selection of suppliers in compliance with quality and ESG standards
Upcycling Extraction Waste
The extraction residues from our raw materials are ingeniously repurposed into high-quality fish feed, embodying our commitment to sustainable practices. Additionally, we embrace a zero-waste philosophy by utilizing leftover meat and bones from our culinary processes to craft nourishing soups. This ethos of resourcefulness not only minimizes waste but also maximizes the potential of every ingredient. Looking ahead, we are dedicated to expanding these upcycling initiatives across more product lines, ensuring a broader impact on waste reduction and sustainable production.
Ocean-Friendly Practices
In our beauty line, the foundation of all series is environmental friendliness. Our beauty products proudly feature FSC-certified paper packaging, single-material bottles for efficient recycling, soy ink printing, refillable bottle concepts, and packaging materials made from recycled content. Moreover, our entire product range adheres to an ocean-friendly formulation. As we progress, our commitment extends to transitioning all our products to incorporate recycled plastic and implementing carbon reduction measures in logistics—a significant step forward in our ongoing journey towards sustainability.
Supplier Management
We have introduced a comprehensive Code of Conduct, which all our suppliers are encouraged to sign. This Code of Conduct serves as a guiding framework to ensure that our suppliers operate with integrity, honesty, and a strong commitment to our Sustainable Procurement Policy. Our goal is not only to foster transparency and ethical behavior but also to encourage suppliers to create diverse and inclusive work environments. Our public Code of Conduct and Sustainable Procurement Policy can be downloaded from the "Our ESG Commitment" document at the bottom of the page.
Blue Economy - Sustainable Utilization of Seaweed
Our reliance on seaweed in all product lines is grounded in its environmentally favorable growth conditions. Seaweed cultivation thrives without the need for freshwater or terrestrial resources, eliminating the necessity for fertilizers and pesticides. Moreover, this growth process operates as a carbon-negative endeavor. Seaweed not only regenerates efficiently but also absorbs dissolved nitrogen, phosphorus, and carbon dioxide from the ocean during its growth. This unique aspect positions seaweed as a sustainable ingredient, contributing to a carbon-negative food production process.
Fair Trade - Smallholder Farmer Procurement
Some of uur Hi-Q cuisine products are ethically sourced through fair trade agreements with smallholder farmers. This ensures that our supply chain promotes fair economic practices, contributing to poverty reduction and sustainable agriculture.
CSR - Donation of fish and supplements
We actively engage in periodic donations of supplements to individuals in need. Additionally, to address hunger more directly, our "Buy One, Donate One" model focuses on fish products, ensuring that for every fish product purchased, a corresponding donation of fish is made to communities facing food insecurity. This multi-pronged approach underscores our dedication to both nutritional support and sustainable food solutions, contributing to the broader goal of eliminating hunger.
CSR-Support and subsidies for children with cancer and vulnerable groups
We are dedicated to providing companionship and support for children who lack care and face academic challenges. Together with parents, teachers, and volunteers, we create a community-driven environment where companionship is not limited to professional educators. Through our longstanding collaboration with the 1919 Reading Companionship Program, we accompany over 300,000 economically disadvantaged children in Taiwan. This initiative offers them free access to academic tutoring, character education, artistic courses, and family support. Our goal is to nurture their physical, mental, and emotional well-being while providing a sense of security for parents with limited financial means. This, in turn, enables parents to work with peace of mind, contributing to the improvement of family economic conditions and overall quality of life.
CSR-Job opportunities
We create job opportunities as part of our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. Each holiday, we invite individuals with disabilities to showcase their talents through musical performances at our restaurant. Additionally, our handmade soap products in the beauty line are crafted in collaboration with the nonprofit organization, Little Shell Sheltered Workshop
Employee Benefits
Upholding labor regulations, our company prioritizes fair labor practices and provides reasonable benefits and working conditions. We offer flexible working hours, remote work options, and continually enhance our educational training programs. Furthermore, employees benefit from travel subsidies, promoting a holistic approach to employee well-being.
Ethical Business Conduct - Fair Pricing Practices
We prioritize transparency in our pricing practices with suppliers. Every transaction is conducted with openness and fairness, ensuring that our suppliers are well- informed and treated equitably in all negotiations. This approach aligns with our dedication to fostering ethical relationships throughout the supply chain.
Ethical Business Conduct
Our commitment to ethical business conduct is underscored by the thorough implementation of a Code of Ethics. This code serves as a foundational framework, guiding our employees and stakeholders in making principled decisions. It encompasses fair business practices, transparency, and integrity in all our operations. Regular training sessions are conducted to ensure understanding and adherence to the code, fostering a corporate culture built on ethical principles.
Regulatory Compliance-Regular Compliance Audits
Regular compliance audits are conducted across various facets of our business operations to ensure alignment with local and international regulations. These audits serve as a proactive measure, identifying areas for improvement and mitigating potential risks.
We are committed to promoting the Blue Economy and ensuring the sustainable utilization of seaweed resources. We are driving holistic sustainability practices to support the environment and foster responsible resource use through the implementation of eco-friendly packaging,introduction of our Blue Beauty ORN skincare product line, and the upcycling of our extraction waste into animal feed.
50% of the product lines are designed with eco-friendly packing.
We actively champion social responsibility by supporting and subsidizing impoverished cancer patients, kids with special needs and vulnerable groups. Through donations of fish and supplements, travel subsidy to “Special Need” afternoon platform, we aim to create a positive and lasting impact on communities.
Regularly provide consistent supports to people in need every month. Executed 12 "Special Need” Afternoon Activities.
We prioritize our employees' welfare through enhanced benefits, comprehensive labor policies, and improved working conditions. Upholding diversity is not just a goal; it's a commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace that values and celebrates the unique contributions of each team member.
4 new employee welfare policy in 2023.
We actively foster fair trade commitments by procuring from smallholder farmers, ensuring a transparent and equitable supply chain. Through the implementation of a robust Code of Ethics and fair pricing practices, we strive to conduct business that not only meets legal requirements but exceeds ethical expectations.
Each month, regularly review and maintain fair pricing practices and transparency across all platforms and suppliers.
2022 Eatender Award-Senior-Friendly Food
2021 Anti Additive (A.A.) Clean Label
2022 4th Golden Ship Brand Awards - ESG Award
2022 Taiwan Sustainable Action Awards (TSAA)
2023 Global Views-ESG Sustainability Awards
2023 Grains Research Institute's Dual Cleanliness Certification