Sustainability Report 2024

Building a Sustainable Future for Logistics 2024 Sustainability Report

1

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Letter from Leadership

5

Our Commitment

5

About Us

6

Environmental Stewardship . . . . . . . . . 9 Sustainable Office Initiatives

10

SmartWay® Partnership

12

EcoVadis Performance

12

Global Environmental Policy

13

Social Responsibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Our Guiding Principles

16

Competitive Benefits

17

VTO & Community Engagement

18

Commitment to Inclusivity

20

Ascent University & Talent

21

Governance and Ethics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Governance in Action

24

Sustainable Procurement

25

Anti-Corruption Safeguards

26

Labor and Human Rights Oversight 26 Cybersecurity & IT Governance 27 Certifications & Compliance

28

Looking Ahead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 2

table of contents 3

introduction 4

n

Letter From Leadership "At Ascent, sustainability is part of how we move the world forward.

2024 was a year of progress, reflection and bold commitments.

We completed an initial GHG emissions assessment, invested in energy efficiency initiatives for our facilities and empowered our people and communities in new ways. This report is more than numbers, it’s the story of how we’re reshaping logistics for tomorrow."

Rob Walpole Chief Executive Officer

Our Commitment Since 2014, Ascent Global Logistics has steadily advanced its commitment to Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles, weaving sustainability into the fabric of how we operate. What began as targeted updates to reduce our footprint and strengthen responsibility across our business evolved into a fully developed ESG plan launched in late 2022. In 2024, that plan came to life with measurable progress — from cutting emissions to enhancing employee wellness and embedding governance practices across the organization. Our goal remains clear: to build a logistics model that creates long-term value for our customers, employees and communities while safeguarding the planet for future generations.

5

About Ascent Global Logistics Ascent is a leading global provider of expedited, time-critical logistics solutions and other direct transportation services.

Through our proprietary digital PEAK™ freight marketplace, we seamlessly connect customers to an extensive, multimodal provider network and our assetbased airline, USA Jet, which delivers unparalleled control, reliability and capacity for mission-critical shipments.

In 2024, Ascent moved 350,000 shipments through PEAK, helping customers avoid more than $401.7 million in transportation costs. Our comprehensive offerings include air charter, ground expedite, onboard courier and airfreight, as well as truckload, less-than-truckload, global forwarding, brokerage and managed transportation services.

Backed by a dedicated, experienced team available 24/7/365, Ascent excels at meeting customers’ most complex logistics challenges, delivering industryleading service, speed and satisfaction.

6

about us 7

environment stewardship 8

tal

At Ascent, we understand the pressing need to address climate change and environmental degradation. We have implemented rigorous measures to mitigate our environmental impact throughout our operations.

We continue to invest in energy efficiency, lower-carbon transportation, responsible resource management and industry-recognized sustainability standards. These efforts reflect our belief that logistics can move the world forward while minimizing environmental impact.

From reducing greenhouse gas emissions in our own operations to improving efficiency across our network, 2024 marked meaningful progress.

We advanced key partnerships that validate our performance, expanded energy efficiency initiatives and wastereduction efforts across our facilities and strengthened our global environmental policy to hold ourselves accountable.

The following highlights represent our ongoing commitment to a cleaner, more resilient future.

9

Sustainable Office Initiatives At Ascent, we are committed to creating office spaces that are environmentally responsible, energy-efficient and healthy for our teams. Key initiatives include: •

Energy Efficiency: From 2020–2024, we replaced HVAC units with high-efficiency models, reducing fuel consumption and emissions by 50% per unit. We continue to transition all lighting to LED, with 70% of buildings completed by the end of 2024, leveraging utility provider incentive programs. Smart thermostats, building automation systems, heat-reflective glass and low-emission air conditioning further enhance energy efficiency.

•

Water Conservation: High-efficiency toilets (1.28 gpf or less), controlled-flow faucets with automatic shutoff, water-efficient appliances and wastewater recycling programs support our water conservation efforts.

•

Recycling and Waste Management: Ongoing paper, cardboard, aluminum and plastic recycling programs contribute to environmental responsibility, with proceeds from certain items supporting charitable initiatives. We also recycle chemicals, hazardous waste and fuels, extending product life and reducing environmental impact.

•

Sustainable Design and Renovation: Renovations follow LEED principles, prioritizing green materials, natural light, automated lighting systems, openconcept layouts and heat-reflective glass. High-efficiency appliances, fixtures and hybrid work environments with shared desks through hoteling reduce energy and space requirements.

•

Carbon and Emission Reduction: Through high-efficiency heating, air conditioning and other energy-saving measures, we actively mitigate greenhouse gas emissions while providing low-carbon, cost-effective and healthy work environments.

~35%

Waste Diverted From Landfills

10

11

SmartWay® Partnership As a SmartWay® Transport Partner, we are dedicated to minimizing the environmental impact of our logistics operations. Our sustainability efforts ensure that every freight movement is optimized for both efficiency and environmental responsibility.

From 2023 to 2024, the percentage of our truck shipments using SmartWay® increased by 22%, demonstrating our continued commitment to cleaner transportation. We have validated this partnership through 2026, reinforcing our long-term dedication to sustainable logistics practices.

EcoVadis Performance In 2024, we earned a score of 51 on the EcoVadis sustainability assessment, a globally recognized platform that evaluates companies’ environmental, social and ethical performance across their supply chains.

This score earned us the “Committed” badge, placing us in the 52nd percentile and above the industry average. These results reflect our ongoing dedication to sustainable practices and continuous improvement in environmental and social responsibility.

12

Global Environmental Policy Our Global Environmental Policy guides this work by committing Ascent to reduce emissions, manage resources responsibly and adopt international environmental frameworks to measure progress. It expands on this commitment by setting a framework that address our impact more holistically: •

Responsible materials and waste management: Maintain process and lists of all hazardous and non-hazardous materials and waste management.

Systematically reducing, responsibly disposing of, or recycling materials across all operations.

•

Emissions reductions: HVAC upgrades to high-efficiency units, LED lighting, automated motion-detection lighting and smart thermostats reduced Scope 2 emissions through lower energy consumption. A 17% reduction in jet fuel use reduced Scope 1 emissions, together resulting in a 22% reduction in combined Scope 1 and Scope 2 GHG emissions. Emissions calculations were completed by Sustainable Travel using U.S. EPA emissions factors for Scope 1 and Scope 2.

•

22%

Reduction in Scope 1 and Scope 2 GHG Emissions

Continuous improvement and accountability: Participation in sustainability reporting partnerships, completing periodic assessments and engaging Board-level oversight of ESG progress.

Looking ahead By 2026, we’re targeting: • • • • •

A 23% reduction in Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions from our baseline year (2022).

Completion of a Scope 3 emissions assessment.

Up to 15% renewable electricity powering our facilities.

Broader application of international environmental management frameworks to track and report Ascent’s performance across sustainability goals.

Implementation of mode and route optimizations to further reduce emissions.

13

social responsibilit 14

ty

At Ascent, our success is rooted in our people. We are committed to building a workplace where every team member belongs, grows, thrives and contributes to something larger than themselves.

Our culture is grounded in shared guiding principles, supported by meaningful benefits and strengthened through continuous learning and community engagement.

We actively promote inclusion within our workforce and supply chains, recognizing that different perspectives lead to innovation and better decision-making.

In 2024, we advanced our people-first commitments across the organization— from expanding professional development opportunities to formalizing support programs and launching new initiatives that reinforce belonging, well-being and community impact. The following highlights reflect our dedication to empowering our teams and creating value for the communities we serve.

15

Our Guiding Principles At Ascent, our culture is built on three guiding principles that drive how we work, innovate and succeed: •

Play Hard: We are obsessed with exceeding customer expectations. We take ownership, maintain focus and discipline, and lead with effort—no one plays harder than we do.

•

Play Smart: We find solutions, take calculated risks, and continuously learn, improve and teach. Clear communication, strong fundamentals, innovation and flawless execution guide everything we do.

•

Play Together: We prioritize the team, share and celebrate wins, provide honest feedback and foster trust and inclusion. Our customers win when we collaborate, and we achieve more when we work as one team.

These principles guide every decision, every interaction, and every success at Ascent, shaping a culture of excellence, accountability and teamwork.

16

Competitive Benefits At Ascent, we are committed to supporting the physical, mental and financial wellbeing of every team member. Our comprehensive total rewards package is designed to empower employees at every stage of life and career, fostering a workplace where people can thrive both personally and professionally.

We provide competitive benefits including top-tier health insurance, 401(k) plans with employer match, paid family leave, PTO and professional development opportunities.

We further invest in our teams through enhanced workspaces—featuring standing desks, an on-site gym and comfortable gathering spaces at Headquarters.

In 2024, we expanded our commitment to employee well-being and community support through several initiatives: •

Comprehensive Total Rewards: 401(k) + match, paid parental leave, PTO, tuition reimbursement, incentive compensation and more.

•

Wellness Program: Designed to promote preventive care and empower team members to take control of their health and overall well-being with 49% of eligible employees participating in the program.

•

Corporate Charitable Giving Policy: Ascenters can nominate organizations aligned with our values; Ascent donates up to $25,000 per cause.

•

Hardship Matching Policy: Formal support for teammates facing hardship; Ascent matches 100% of funds raised, up to $10,000 per event.

•

Paid Parental Leave: 4 weeks of paid leave to bond with a newborn, newly adopted or newly placed child.

49%

of Eligble Employees Participated in the Wellness Program

Our benefits strategy reflects our belief that caring for people is fundamental to building a healthier, stronger and more sustainable organization.

17

Volunteer Time Off & Community Engagement Ascent is committed to strengthening the communities where we live and work. In 2024, we advanced this commitment with the introduction of our Volunteer Time Off (VTO) policy, a new benefit that provides employees with up to eight hours of paid time annually to support causes that matter to them. This program empowers Ascenters and Jetters to make a meaningful impact beyond the workplace.

Throughout the year, our teams contributed more than 430 hours of service across a variety of community organizations and local initiatives. These efforts reflect both the passion our people have for giving back and the importance of social responsibility within our broader ESG commitment.

Among the various activities supported, Ascent employees contributed in meaningful ways across multiple initiatives. In 2024, we were honored with Vista Maria’s 2023 Outstanding Corporate Partner of the Year award, recognizing our sponsorship and participation in key events such as the Fearless Heart Gala, Ford Golf Tournament, Dolly Drive and Empowerment Lunch. Our teams also supported the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Out of the Darkness Walks, helping raise awareness and funds for suicide prevention. Through our USA Jet partnership with Eastern Michigan University, team members hosted students for educational programs and hands-on aviation experience, nurturing the next generation of industry talent. In Mexico, our Aguascalientes-based team worked with Ciudad del Niño to care for vulnerable children and elderly individuals in the local community.

Through these initiatives, our team makes a tangible difference, exemplifying our dedication to supporting communities and driving lasting impact.

430+ Volunteer Hours

by Employees

18

19

Commitment to Inclusivity At Ascent, you belong. We strive not only to ensure that all voices within Ascent have a seat at the table but that all seats at the table use their voice. Our full potential is realized when we seek out the experiences and perspectives of our teammates. Our combined efforts allow us to be both human-centric and customer-obsessed.

In 2024, our workforce included 70+ U.S. military veterans, reflecting our commitment to supporting those who have served. Additionally, we launched a new company holiday in honor of Veteran’s Day. Across all locations, we continue to build inclusive environments where people feel valued and respected.

Ascent and USA Jet U.S. military veterans

20

Ascent University & Talent Development Ascent University, led by our Learning & Development team, is our internal platform for continuous growth and career development. In addition to offering a wide range of professional training and leadership programs, the team designs custom courses tailored to the needs of our people and business.

By equipping employees with the skills to innovate, collaborate and adapt, Ascent University supports a sustainable workforce and strengthens our ability to deliver long-term value. In 2024, employees completed more than 7,058 hours of training through Ascent University, with 100% compliance in safety training. Additionally, our team accomplished our goal of maintaining five or less workplace-related health and safety incidents.

7K+

Employee Training Hours via Ascent University

Beyond Ascent University, other teams also invest in learning and development in ways that reflect their unique operational needs. Our USA Jet team continued to advance its own specialized training programs, ensuring employees are prepared for the demands of the aviation industry. Meanwhile, our Mexico operations supported employee growth through a wellness week program, English courses and targeted skill-building programs.

By investing in learning and development at every level, we strengthen our people, enhance performance and create long-term value for our customers.

Looking ahead By 2026, we aim to: • • • •

Maintain fewer than five workplace incidents annually.

Review Wellness Program to ensure ongoing effectiveness.

Sustain community engagement and employee volunteer hours.

Develop a business continuity plan.

21

governance & ethics 22

At Ascent, strong governance is the foundation of accountability, ethical leadership and long-term performance.

It guides how we make decisions, manage risks, uphold integrity and ensure sustainability is embedded across our business—not just in policy, but in practice.

Governance is also how we protect our people and customers, safeguard information and maintain the trust that strengthens every relationship we build.

In 2024, we strengthened the structures that support transparency, compliance and responsible growth across the organization.

From reinforcing anti-corruption safeguards and enhancing responsible sourcing to strengthening cybersecurity and modernizing internal controls, our governance framework ensures we operate with integrity in every action we take. The following highlights reflect our ongoing commitment to ethical operations and the confidence our customers, employees and partners place in us.

23

Governance in Action Strong governance ensures that sustainability is more than a commitment—it is measurable accountability. In 2024, Ascent advanced this commitment by: •

Forming a cross-functional ESG Committee to oversee strategy, reporting and progress.

•

Updating 100% of company policies to align with global standards, including Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) requirements.

•

Completing a materiality assessment identifying emissions, worker safety and supply chain transparency as top priorities.

These actions reinforce transparency, strengthen oversight and ensure that ethical conduct is embedded into every part of our operations.

Integrity in Every Move Governance isn’t just policy — it’s the guardrail that keeps us aligned with our values.

“Strong governance is about trust. When customers, employees, and partners know we act with integrity, it strengthens every relationship we have.”

Tiffany Hutchens General Counsel & Chief People Officer

24

100% of Company Policies Updated to Align with ESG Framework and CSRD Requirements

Sustainable Procurement Our Sustainable Procurement Policy extends governance into our supply chain, embedding ESG expectations into supplier selection and management. We prioritize suppliers with strong environmental and labor practices, fair working conditions and commitments to an inclusive environment. Evaluations now incorporate environmental, social and economic criteria, with ongoing monitoring aligned to our Supplier Code of Conduct. This approach ensures that our purchasing decisions support innovation, waste reduction and compliance with evolving global regulations.

100%

of Suppliers Acknowledged Code of Conduct Before Engagement

In 2024, we strengthened these safeguards by introducing a new Supplier Code of Conduct, which requires all suppliers to formally acknowledge and adhere to our ethical standards, including human rights provisions, before engagement. 100% of suppliers acknowledged the Code prior to working with Ascent, reinforcing a culture of integrity and accountability across our supply chain.

25

Anti-Corruption Safeguards Integrity is at the core of every decision and action. Our Corruption Risk Assessment process establishes key performance indicators and compliance requirements aligned with the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) and other international anticorruption laws, ensuring that ethical practices guide all aspects of our operations.

In 2024, we continued our compliance training program, which was completed by 97% of our workforce in 2024, reinforcing our commitment to transparency and accountability. We also maintain a whistleblower hotline to provide employees and partners with a safe, confidential way to raise concerns, with all reported cases resolved within 30 days. Together, these measures ensure that both internal teams and external partners uphold the highest ethical standards in every interaction

97%

of Employees Completed Compliance Training

Labor and Human Rights Oversight Ascent’s governance framework extends to protecting people, ensuring that fair labor practices and human rights are embedded across our operations. Through our Labor & Human Rights Reporting, we measure key performance indicators including employee turnover, workplace health and safety, training and supplier compliance with human rights standards.

These metrics allow us to monitor progress, identify trends and enforce accountability across both our workforce and extended supply chain. As a global leader in logistics, Ascent recognizes its responsibility to uphold these rights and practices throughout all operations. Our initiatives within the ESG program reflect this commitment, driving continuous improvement and fostering a safe, equitable and respectful work environment for all employees and partners.

26

Cybersecurity & IT Governance At Ascent, protecting our digital infrastructure and customer data is a top priority. In 2024, we strengthened our cybersecurity framework by issuing formal IT governance policies and revising existing policies to ensure alignment with industry best practices and regulatory requirements.

In 2024, 86% of employees completing cybersecurity training, equipping our teams with the knowledge and tools to identify and prevent potential threats. These efforts reinforce our commitment to secure operations, safeguard sensitive information and maintain the trust of our customers and partners.

86%

of Employees Completed Cybersecurity Training

27

Certifications & Compliance Ascent demonstrates its commitment to safety, quality and regulatory excellence through a wide array of industry-leading certifications and validations across air, ocean and ground transportation. From international air carriers and customs brokerage to environmental and quality management programs, our certifications are recognized by regulatory authorities across the U.S., Canada, Mexico and global agencies.

In addition to ISO 9001:2015 quality certification and EPA SmartWay® Transport Partnership recognition, Ascent maintains FAA Part 135 and 121 air carrier certifications, U.S. Customs brokerage licenses, IATA accreditation and approvals for ocean and air freight intermediaries. These credentials are validated regularly and reflect our disciplined approach to operational safety, regulatory compliance and environmental responsibility.

By maintaining these certifications, Ascent ensures that every shipment is handled with the highest standards, reinforcing trust with our customers while supporting sustainable, secure and efficient logistics worldwide.

28

Customer Retention Ascent’s governance framework is anchored in integrity, transparency and long-term value creation. These principles have enabled us to cultivate and sustain enduring partnerships across industries, many lasting 20 to 30 years. Ascent was honored to be a 2024 inductee to the John Deere Hall of Fame after being named an Achieving Excellence Partner for 10 consecutive years, a recognition that reflects our sustained commitment to quality, reliability and continuous improvement. While we continue to welcome a growing number of new customers, the loyalty of our long-standing partners underscores the strength of our governance practices and our consistent ability to deliver mission-critical logistics solutions with excellence.

Looking ahead By 2026, we plan to: • • • • • •

Maintain 100% supplier compliance with our Code of Conduct.

Ensure any labor and human rights violations reported through Ascent’s hotline for critical suppliers are investigated within 14 days.

Conduct annual corruption risk reviews and continuously update related policies.

Complete a cybersecurity risk mitigation audit project.

Implement refreshed data privacy and security policies.

Update our disaster recovery plan.

29

The progress of 2024 is only the beginning.

By 2026, Ascent aims to further cut emissions, divert more waste from landfills, expand energy efficiency initiatives, complete a scope 3 emissions assessment and increase both employee and community engagement. As we expand into Europe, we are also making strides toward full GDPR compliance, ensuring that data privacy and protection are integral to our global operations.

Our long-term ambition is clear: achieve carbon neutrality in Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2038 while fostering an inclusive workforce and strengthening governance practices. Sustainability is not a destination but a journey, and Ascent remains committed to leading the logistics industry toward a future where urgent deliveries and environmental responsibility move together.

30

lo

ooking ahead

31

32

ascentlogistics.com