[GPTW] Ecolab offers integrated sustainability solutions

By Sah Dong-suk

Since its foundation in 1923, Ecolab has been a global leader in water, hygiene and infection prevention solutions, delivering environmental, social and governance (ESG)-driven programs that protect people, the planet and business health.

The company serves more than 40 industries, offering integrated solutions for water and energy optimization, food safety, infection prevention, sanitation and operational efficiency across industrial, commercial and infrastructure sectors.

With a presence in over 170 countries, Ecolab supports approximately 3 million customers worldwide, including around 10,000 customers in Korea, where it has been operating since 1987.

Through its science-based solutions, digital technologies and on-site expertise, Ecolab helps businesses conserve resources, enhance safety and maintain the highest standards of hygiene and operational efficiency.

Ryu Yang-kwon, president of Ecolab Korea, has been leading the company with the belief that “corporate sustainability stems from honest and responsible management.”

Specifically, he believes that Ecolab’s business model of “Creating Shared Value (CSV),” which has a significant impact on human lives as well as corporate profits, can deliver sustainable results for businesses.

Ecolab Korea, in particular, is striving to create shared value through ESG solutions, services and innovative technologies. Boosted by management based on this belief, Ecolab Korea was able to win the Porter Prize for Excellence in CSV for five consecutive years.

Ryu also believes fostering a corporate environment that enables employees to feel empowered, valued and motivated to succeed is essential. Ecolab Korea has introduced a hybrid work system called the “Future of Work” that supports remote work twice a week while implementing flexible work systems and staggered working hours.

Employees can also receive tuition support for their children and use company resorts in Jeju Island and Gangneung of Gangwon Province for "workations." According to a survey of former and current employees, 81 percent responded that Ecolab Korea is a good company to work for, significantly higher than the Korean average of 43 percent.

Ryu worked as a researcher for Capro, a petrochemical company, before joining Nalco, a global leader in water and process management solutions, in 1992. Nalco was later acquired by Ecolab, and in 2014, he was named the president of Ecolab Korea. He has been with the same company for over 30 years.