VNET Group Achieves Historic Recognition in S&P Global Sustainability Yearbook 2025

VNET Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: VNET), a premier carrier- and cloud-neutral internet data center services provider in China, has recently celebrated a significant achievement by securing its first inclusion in the S&P Global Sustainability Yearbook for 2025. This distinguished recognition is crucial as it marks the company’s first appearance in the global edition, following two successful years recognized in the China edition.

This inclusion highlights VNET’s rigorous commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles, showcasing the company's performance in sustainable development on an international stage. The S&P Global Sustainability Yearbook 2025 is an annual publication that recognizes companies with exceptional sustainability efforts, based on the 2024 SP Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment (CSA).

In total, 7,690 companies from 62 different industries participated in the 2024 CSA, but only the top 780 performers were selected for inclusion in the Yearbook. VNET impressed the assessors with an outstanding score of 70, marking a record for the company. Notably, VNET is one of just 21 enterprises from mainland China included in the Yearbook, making it the only representative from China's IT services industry—a significant testament to its role as an industry leader.

Founded by Josh Sheng Chen, who serves as Executive Chairperson and interim CEO, VNET has been ingraining ESG best practices throughout its operations since its inception. Chen expressed his pride in this recognition, emphasizing the company's commitment to integrating these principles into their strategy. He noted, "By leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as liquid cooling and source-grid-load-storage, we are advancing the development of green, intelligent data centers and computing power infrastructures. Sustainability is essential to our ongoing success, and we are determined to uphold that focus in all our future initiatives."

This prestigious recognition from S&P Global is complemented by VNET’s strong ESG credentials. The company has consistently received an ESG rating of A from MSCI for three consecutive years, indicating its leadership in sustainable practices. Moreover, VNET holds a B rating for climate change from CDP, surpassing 94% of participating companies in China. It also maintains a Low ESG Risk Rating from Sustainalytics, reflecting its robust governance and sustainable practices.

VNET’s operations span over 30 cities across China, serving a diverse range of clients including internet companies, government entities, and various enterprise customers. They offer an array of services such as hosting, cloud services, and business VPN solutions, all aimed at improving the reliability and security of the internet infrastructure for their clients.

The company’s strategic emphasis on sustainability not only aligns with its business objectives but also meets the increasing demand for responsible practices in the data center industry. By consistently improving its performance in ESG measures, VNET sets a benchmark within its sector, contributing to a broader movement towards sustainability in technology and infrastructure.

As VNET continues to evolve, the company aims to maintain its leadership in both sustainability and service excellence, ensuring that it delivers long-term value to its stakeholders. With its groundbreaking approaches and dedication, VNET showcases how integrating ESG strategies can lead to remarkable industry recognition and success.

In conclusion, VNET Group, Inc. stands as a beacon of innovation and responsibility in the rapidly changing landscape of technology services, demonstrating how commitment to sustainability can drive business success and foster positive global impact.