Since Fairfax was founded in 1985, we have operated with ESG principles in mind. So while we only started officially reporting on our ESG performance a few years ago, the principles are something we have adhered to since day one.

Back then, we didn’t call it ESG – we operated for the long-term benefit of our employees, customers, shareholders, and communities because it was the right thing to do.

Our ESG approach is all there in our Guiding Principles, a carefully considered set of strategic values that have been the same since our inception. For close to 40 years, we’ve taken a long-term, value-based approach to everything we do. Because while trends may come and go, we know true sustainability requires a deep sense of purpose, dedication, and the foresight to build for future success.

The only change to our Guiding Principles has been our recent addition of the Golden Rule – the idea that we treat others with kindness, empathy, and care – in business and in life. In other words, we treat each person we encounter with the consideration we would want them to show us as well.

A culture of “doing good by doing well.”

The idea that financial success can be a force for good is the cornerstone of our company’s values – one that is consistent with ESG principles. It is a philosophy that has helped us grow, and as we have done so, allowed us to increasingly support causes that are making a difference in the world.

One company. Many approaches.

Through our decentralized structure, our operating companies each focus on environmental stewardship, social justice, and responsible governance in a way that is appropriate to their business and local needs.

I am delighted to share both our ESG Report as well as our Charitable Giving Report with you, and hope you find them a fitting reflection of our deep commitment to operating with an eye to the future – and a genuine sense of social responsibility.