DELAWARE, Ohio (News release) -- Greif, Inc announced it has again been awarded a Gold Rating in sustainability performance by EcoVadis for the second year in a row. EcoVadis is an independent rating agency specializing in the evaluation of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), including sustainable development and performance monitoring of suppliers. Greif scored in the top four percent of all companies evaluated by EcoVadis.

"We are proud that EcoVadis has once again recognized Greif's commitment to sustainability with a Gold Rating," said Ole Rosgaard, Greif Senior Vice President and Group President, Rigid Industrial Packaging and Services and Global Sustainability.

"We are committed to being a leader in sustainable business performance, and as we reflect on this past year, we take pride in the results achieved. I'd like to thank our global colleagues for the hard work in achieving this recognition and I look forward to continuing our progress in the years ahead," said Rosgaard.

Greif reports its corporate responsibility efforts and progress in accordance with the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) standards and fulfills UN Global Compact requirements. Greif's sustainability achievements can be seen in its annual Sustainability Report.

EcoVadis, which evaluates a network of 55,000 suppliers, uses a methodology that rates companies according to 21 CSR criteria, grouped under four themes: Environment, Labor & Human Rights, Ethics and Sustainable Procurement. Its methodology and criteria used are in line with international CSR standards including the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), UN Global Compact, and ISO 26000.