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1、2024 Sustainability R2INTRODUCTIONContentsIntroduction 3About STAAR Surgical 42023 Highlights 4Corporate Responsibility at STAAR 5About This Report 5Reduction of Environmental Impact 6GRI 307:Environmental Compliance 6GRI 302:EnergyOperational Energy Use and Management 7GRI 305:EmissionsClimate and
2、Greenhouse Gas Emissions 9GRI 306:Effluents and WasteWaste Management 12GRI 303:Water and EffluentsWater Usage 12Employee Well-Being,Diversity,Equity,&Inclusion 13GRI 400:Social 13GRI 103:Management Approach 14GRI 403:Occupational Health and Safety 15GRI 401:Employment 16GRI 405:Diversity and Equal
3、Opportunity 18GRI 412:Human Rights Assessment 21Philanthropy and Community Service 22GRI 413:Local Communities 22Corporate Ethics,Responsibility,and Governance 28GRI 102:General Disclosures 2021Governance 28GRI 103:Management Approach;GRI 417:Marketing and Labeling 29GRI 410:Security Practices;GRI 4
4、18:Customer Privacy 30Product and Operational Quality 32GRI 416:Customer Health and Safety 2016 32Safe Harbor 36A Company Dedicated to Visual Freedom 37SASB Mapping 383INTRODUCTIONWe are honored to share this STAAR Surgical Company Sustainability Report with you,focusing on our commitment to sustain
5、ability and our corporate value of employee empowerment in 2023.Our mission is to develop,manufacture,and market exceptional implantable lens-based solutions for patients seeking visual freedom.We are committed to delivering on our mission in an ethical and sustainable manner,with a focus on stakeho
6、lders such as investors,business partners,employees,customers,and the communities and patients they serve!2023 was a transformative year for STAAR Surgical.In 2023,we experienced significant growth with increased revenue and sales in various markets.In addition,we welcomed a new Chief Executive Offi
7、cer,Tom Frinzi,and two new senior business leaders:Warren Foust as Chief Operating Officer,and Magda Michna,PhD as Chief Clinical,Regulatory,and Medical Affairs Officer.Mr.Frinzi introduced a new leadership initiative known as the“High Performance Management System”(HPMS).The HPMS is a collaborative
8、 decision-making process intended to enhance growth and productivity.We are excited the system can further help all employees actively participate in the decision-making process at STAAR.We are proud to have delivered industry leading growth once again.In 2023,we grew revenues year-over-year by 13%,
9、and we grew sales of our Implantable Collamer Lenses(ICLs)*year-over-year by 18%.We generated net income of$21 million in 2023,and we ended the year with cash,cash equivalents,and investments available for sale of$232 million.We believe these achievements position us well for 2024 and beyond.We acco
10、mplished this financial performance at a time when the global refractive industry was roughly flat and even declining in certain markets year-over-year.Our continued solid financial performance allows us to support our commitment to enhancing our sustainability practices,diversity initiatives,and ou
11、r investment in reducing our environmental footprint.Our board and employees share a dedication to ethical practices and respect for all STAAR stakeholders.Were committed to reducing our environmental footprint and fostering a culture of sustainability and inclusivity.Im proud to be a part of STAARs
12、 ongoing efforts to continue growing our business and helping patients while upholding respected values that resonate with stakeholders worldwide.Magda Michna,PhD Chief Clinical,Regulatory,and Medical Affairs OfficerIntroductionSTAAR INSIGHT*Collamer is a registered trademark of STAAR Surgical Compa
13、ny.4INTRODUCTION2023 HighlightsWe are proud to highlight some of our major accomplishments:About STAAR SurgicalSTAAR,which has been dedicated solely to ophthalmic surgery for over 40 years,designs,develops,manufactures and markets implantable lenses for the eye.These lenses are intended to provide v
14、isual freedom for patients,lessening or eliminating the reliance on glasses or contact lenses.All of these lenses are foldable,which permits the surgeon to insert them through a small incision.STAARs lens used in refractive surgery is called an Implantable Collamer Lens or“ICL,”which includes the EV
15、O ICLTM*product line.More than 3,000,000 ICLs have been sold to date and STAAR markets these lenses in over 75 countries.To learn more about the ICL go to:EVOICL.com.Headquartered in Lake Forest,CA,the company operates manufacturing and packaging facilities in Aliso Viejo,CA,Monrovia,CA,and Nidau,Sw
16、itzerland.For more information,please visit the Companys website at .*EVO ICL is a trademark of STAAR Surgical Company.Fourth consecutive year of Energy Intensity reduction for a total reduction of 40%+since 2019.Total philanthropic financial donations in 2023,including our global employee charitabl
17、e matching program,equivalent to over$300 USD per employee.100%attainment of global compliance to all mandatory employee training,including health and safety and ethical business practices,with a 20%+reduction in employee turnover.Our Board of Directors(our“Board”)supports our sustainability initiat
18、ives and the successes weve achieved.Our global teams of cross-functional employees actively engage in proposing projects and participating in efforts to boost operational efficiency,cut costs,and lessen our carbon footprint.Their empowered mindset plays a crucial role in shaping our sustainability
19、efforts and overall business success.Looking ahead,we intend to harness new tools as they become available to further enhance our sustainability practices.Our Environmental,Social and Governance(ESG)and Diversity,Equity,and Inclusion(DEI)efforts enrich and strengthen our relationships with stakehold
20、ers and boost our long-term financial performance by aligning with the values of our investors,business partners,employees,customers,and the communities and patients we serve.This report reflects our commitment to sustainability and the crucial role of empowered employees in driving our success.Plea
21、se explore the report for more details on our sustainability journey at STAAR Surgical.Philanthropy and Community ServiceEmployee Well-Being,Diversity,Equity,&InclusionCorporate Ethics,Responsibility,and GovernanceReduction of Environmental ImpactProduct and Operational Quality5INTRODUCTIONCorporate
22、 Responsibility at STAAROur Board oversees the adoption and implementation of our ESG initiatives.As reflected in their charters,each Board committee plays a role in the oversight of ESG matters.The Nominating and Governance Committee provides oversight of sustainability and environmental matters;th
23、e Compensation Committee provides oversight of human capital management matters;and the Audit Committee provides oversight of a range of risks,including cybersecurity.Each Board committee receives updates from management regarding the ESG initiative assigned to it and reports significant matters to
24、the full Board.Please visit the STAAR Surgical website to view our Board committee charters and our Proxy Statement for more information.We recognize the importance of environmental and social responsibility as we strive to successfully grow our business.Weve organized our corporate responsibility e
25、fforts in this report into the following key areas:Reduction of Environmental Impact;Employee Well-Being,Diversity,Equity,&Inclusion;Philanthropy and Community Service;Corporate Ethics,Responsibility,and Governance;Product and Operational Quality.Throughout this report,we refer to our facilities by
26、the municipalities where they are located:Lake Forest25651 Atlantic Ocean Dr,Lake Forest,CA 92630,USAMonrovia1911 Walker Ave,Monrovia,CA 91016,USATustin15102 Red Hill Ave,Tustin,CA 92780,USAAliso Viejo27121 Aliso Creek Rd#100,Aliso Viejo,CA 92656,USANidauHauptstrasse 104,2560 Nidau,SwitzerlandBrggPo
27、rtstrasse 35,2555 Brgg,SwitzerlandIchikawa272-0001 Chiba,Ichikawa,Futamata,717-30,JapanUravasu279-0012 Chiba,Urayasu,Irifune,1 Chome52 5F,JapanAbout This ReportIn this report,we use the terms“we,”“us,”“STAAR”,“STAAR Surgical”or“the company”to refer to STAAR Surgical Company.This report provides data
28、 and highlights primarily covering STAARs fiscal year 2023,which ran from January 1,2023,to December 29,2023.It also notes progress on sustainability projects since the last publication of our sustainability report and projects through March 2024.This report is informed by the reporting guidelines s
29、et forth by the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board(SASB)Medical Equipment and Supplies industry standard and the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures(TCFD).This report includes data from STAAR Surgicals North American facilities,and where indicated,STAAR Surgicals Swiss and Jap
30、anese subsidiaries.All reported data are best estimates.This report also includes our SASB Index located in Appendix B,a voluntary public disclosure providing transparent,relevant corporate responsibility information to investors and other key stakeholders.Reduction of Environmental Impact6REDUCTION
31、 OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTGRI 307:Environmental ComplianceAt STAAR Surgical,our dedication to environmental stewardship is at the core of our operational ethos.As we delve into the Environmental section of the 2024 Sustainability Report,we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to reducing our environment
32、al impact and fostering a culture of sustainability.Throughout the year,our focus has been on integrating eco-conscious practices into our operations,taking steps so that our actions today pave the way for a greener and more sustainable tomorrow.Reduction of environmental impact highlights include:A
33、 40%+reduction in energy intensity from 2019 to 2023 A 25%+reduction in GHG(greenhouse gases)intensity from 2019 to 2023 Solar-powered vehicle charging station and EV fleet management contributing the equivalent of more than 7,500,000 smartphone charges in 2023 Initiated COe tracking for European an
34、d LATAM customer and industry events in order to establish a baselineOur efforts extend beyond mere compliance;they embody a proactive approach towards sustainability.Our empowered employees are dedicated to a greener world for all while delivering true value to our company and shareholders.An emplo
35、yee-driven environmental impact analysis of customer and industry events delivered a detailed analysis of the carbon footprint associated with various events,providing us a baseline to enable the company to monitor and plan for upcoming events effectively.Our fleet management team in Switzerland is
36、transitioning to electric vehicles to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from transport needs,while in California,our mobility and commuting program has resulted in a 80%+reduction in GHG contribution from 2022.The collaborative work of our ESG Committee and Climate Risk Committee has been instrumental
37、 in driving these initiatives forward,engaging employees globally in environmentally friendly practices.As we navigate the challenges posed by climate change risks and seek opportunities for growth and resilience,we remain steadfast in our pursuit of sustainable business practices.The data presented
38、 in this report reflects our ongoing commitment to reducing energy consumption,increasing renewable energy usage,and mitigating greenhouse gas emissions.Our journey towards environmental excellence is not just a corporate responsibility but a testament to our vision for a sustainable future.Promotin
39、g an Environmentally Responsible CultureOur ESG Committee and Climate Risk Committee and their sub-committee continued to coordinate and manage our activities around the world to reduce the companys environmental As a steward of sustainability and environmental responsibility both personally and pro
40、fessionally,I am committed to shaping a future where our actions today positively impact tomorrow.Leading the charge within STAAR Surgicals ESG Sub-committee,I strive to integrate eco-conscious practices into our operations.From overseeing our Southern California facilities and construction projects
41、 to spearheading initiatives like solar panel installations,water conservation efforts,and managing GHG emissions,what I really appreciate about STAAR Surgical is that we are empowered to consider our impact on the environment in our daily activities.I am committed to promoting a culture of environm
42、ental excellence that not only benefits our company but also contributes to a greener,more sustainable world for all.”Justin Reed Senior Director Global Facilities&EngineeringSTAAR INSIGHT7REDUCTION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTimpact.The ESG Environmental sub-committee,comprised of employees located in t
43、he United States,Europe,and Asia,is a cross-functional group that is responsible for engaging employees and identifying opportunities to implement environmentally friendly and sustainable practices.The sub-committee meets regularly to discuss new projects and report on the advancement of ongoing one
44、s.GRI 302:EnergyOperational Energy Use and ManagementEnergy ConservationIn 2023,our commitment to sustainability led us to prioritize energy conservation as a pillar of our environmental initiatives.With the completion of solar panel installations at our Lake Forest and Monrovia facilities,we took s
45、ignificant strides towards harnessing renewable energy sources and reducing our carbon footprint.Globally,our focus extended to empowering our employees to envision and drive energy conservation efforts.Through initiatives such as regulating thermostats during off-hours,implementing motion detector
46、lighting in new facilities,and transitioning to rechargeable batteries,we fostered a culture of energy efficiency across our organization.As we look ahead,energy conservation remains a priority.Not only does it align with our environmental goals,but it also enhances operational efficiency and cost-e
47、ffectiveness.By proactively managing our energy consumption,we reduce our environmental impact and bolster our bottom line by optimizing energy costs as a percentage of revenue.We incorporate environmental considerations into our decision-making processes where applicable.We seek to evaluate the inp
48、uts and impacts of current and future projects and empower our employees to contribute suggestions to our ESG teams.Through annual analyses of ongoing and proposed initiatives,we strive to implement best practices for energy conservation when practical.This proactive approach drives operational exce
49、llence and supports our commitment to sustainable business practices.Operational energy use and management highlights include:A 10%reduction in Energy Intensity(kWh/$1,000 USD in sales)from 2022 to 2023.This is our fourth consecutive year of decreased Energy Intensity demonstrating our ongoing effor
50、ts to reduce non-renewable energy consumption.250,000+kWh of renewable electricity energy delivered in 2023,an increase of 200%+over 2022.Global Operations Energy UsageThe following table details energy usage(in kilowatts,kWh)based on available data for each year.We use energy intensity as our key m
51、etric to track operational energy usage as our business continues to grow.We calculate Energy Intensity as the ratio of energy usage divided by$1,000 USD in sales.As the data shows,our Energy Intensity continues to decrease,even while our energy usage increases due to business growth.And importantly
52、,in 2023,we continued our trend of year-over-year reduction in Energy Intensity with a 10%decrease from 2022,continuing our successful effort to drive energy efficiencies at our facilities.METRIC2019*2020*2021*2022*2023*Total purchased electricity usage(kWh)4,075,4494,181,5204,554,7405,104,2735,253,
53、634Total natural gas usage(kWh)50,434132,760126,77243,59879,960Total residual fuel oil usage(kWh)175,538175,538175,53883,20516,001Total propane usage(kWh)*26826826851,8403,972Total energy usage(kWh)4,301,6894,490,0864,857,0505,282,9175,353,566Total net sales($USD rounded)$150,200,000$163,500,000$230
54、,500,000$284,400,000$322,400,000 Energy intensity(kWh/$1,000 USD of sales)2827211816Y-O-Y energy intensity percent reduction-4%-23%-11%-10%*2019 data includes US facilities(Monrovia,Lake Forest,Aliso Viejo,Tustin),Switzerland facility(Nidau),and Japan facilities(Ichikawa and Urayasu).*2020,2021,2022
55、,2023 data includes the same facilities as 2019 plus Brgg,Switzerland.*Propane use is estimated based on frequency of propane tank refill.Note that in 2022 and 2023,more propane-fueled equipment was utilized to support our growth.8REDUCTION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTThe following chart graphically repr
56、esents the data in the previous table.Total energy usage(left axis)by energy type is represented by the bar graph,while the line graph overlay represents energy intensity(right axis).As the graph illustrates,when our production increased,our overall energy intensity continued to decrease,representin
57、g more efficient and effective use of energy in our global operational energy usage.Total purchased electricity usage(kWh)Total natural gas usage(kWh)Total residual fuel oil usage(kWh)Annual energy usage and energy intensityEnergy intensity(kWh/$1,000 USD of sales)Total energy usage(kWh,millions)Ene
58、rgy intensity(kWh/$1,000 USD of sales)5.05.25.44.84.64.44.2201925303520151052020202120222023We continue to focus on our renewable energy efforts in our three Southern California facilities:Lake Forest,Monrovia,and Tustin.All facilities comply with applicable local codes,including Californias Title 2
59、4 Building Energy Efficiency Standard for new construction.We began operations of the renewable energy panels at our Lake Forest facility at the end of April 2023,with this facility quickly becoming the largest contributor to our renewable energy program by generating 185+MWh of energy(about 65%of t
60、otal contribution).We completed construction and testing of the renewable energy solar panels at our Monrovia facility and received operating permission in December 2023.The total annual savings through the photovoltaic(PV)installations in all locations*is approximately 195 MTCOe,which is equivalent
61、 to any one of the following:500,000+miles driven by gasoline-powered vehicle in one yearCO from 200,000 pounds of coal burnedCO sequester about 3,000 trees grown in 10 years Diverted 60 tons of waste from landfillCO emissions of 20,000,000 smart phones charged*Note that not all PV installations at
62、our facilities were operational in 2023.This includes a partial year for the Lake Forest facility and only a few days for the Monrovia facility.*GHG Calculation from:www.epa.gov/energy/greenhouse-gas-equivalencies-calculatorMETRIC2019*2020*2021*2022*2023*Gross direct(Scope 1)GHG emissions(MTCOe)5367
63、646359Indirect(Scope 2)GHG emissions(MTCOe)9489519451,2381,483Total GHG emissions(MTCOe)1,0011,0191,0091,3011,542Total net sales(USD rounded)*$150,200,000$163,500,000$230,500,000$284,400,000$322,400,000 Total GHG intensity(kg COe/1,000 USD in sales)6.76.24.44.64.8Y-O-Y Total GHG intensity percent ch
64、ange-6%-29%4%4%9REDUCTION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTGRI 305:EmissionsClimate and Greenhouse Gas EmissionsClimate-Related Opportunities and RiskOur cross-functional ESG Committee,comprised of team members from various departments,continued their efforts to enhance our understanding of climate change ris
65、ks and to implement strategies aimed at minimizing the environmental footprint of our operations.Following a review of material sourcing in 2021,it was determined that supply chain scarcity poses minimal immediate threat to the majority of our business activities.Our primary operational vulnerabilit
66、y lies in the potential seismic risks posed by earthquakes in regions where our facilities are located,particularly in California and Japan.In a strategic move to bolster our operational resilience,we have embarked on a significant initiative to expand our manufacturing capacity by re-investing in m
67、anufacturing operations at our Nidau,Switzerland facility.This ongoing project is intended to support our expected growth while mitigating the risks associated with our current reliance on manufacturing in Southern California.We believe STAAR will benefit from increased production capabilities and o
68、perational flexibility.Upon completion,this expansion will also provide us with the agility to relocate operations if required,thereby fortifying our business continuity strategies.We acknowledge that the location of our core operation in Southern California makes us susceptible to drought condition
69、s.While our industrial operations are relatively low water-intensive,we recognize the potential commercial implications linked to water scarcity that necessitate vigilant monitoring and proactive mitigation measures.Additionally,we remain cognizant of the transition risks stemming from evolving clim
70、ate legislation,understanding that regulatory changes could lead to increased compliance costs for our organization.We will continue to monitor and stay abreast of these developments and adapt our strategies accordingly to navigate potential challenges effectively.The year 2023 was the first complet
71、e year we actively incorporated the STAAR“Guidelines for Planning Green Meetings”which encourages employees to consider environmental impact in our meetings and planning practices.By using this guidance,STAAR now has a baseline for customer,user,and industry events by which to track our COe and impa
72、ct.More information is detailed in the Event Management section of this report.Supplier Climate RiskIn alignment with the principles outlined by the TCFD,we have proactively extended our climate risk assessment efforts to encompass critical vendors within our supply chain network as part of our over
73、 arching sustainability strategy.To facilitate this initiative,our Climate Risk Committee has collaborated with a reputable third-party consultancy to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of climate risks associated with our key suppliers.As we move into 2024 and complete our enterprise resource plann
74、ing(ERP)upgrade,we plan to utilize the results of this study to prioritize corrective action plans for key suppliers with substantial business sustainability risks for us.These plans may include material,production,and physical impacts to supplier compliance with existing and emerging emissions targ
75、ets in various countries or regions.Operational Greenhouse Gas EmissionsPreviously,we conducted an inventory of Scope 1 and Scope 2 GHG emissions as part of our ongoing environmental stewardship initiatives.Looking ahead to 2024,we have plans to refresh our Scope 1 and Scope 2 inventory alongside a
76、comprehensive material assessment.Our GHG accounting practices for Scope 1 and Scope 2 align with the guidelines set forth by the World Resources Institutes Greenhouse Gas Protocol,laying the foundation for our annual emissions monitoring and identification of GHG mitigation opportunities.Utilizing
77、our GHG inventory as a strategic tool,we aim to leverage the insights gained to inform our approach towards addressing climate-related risks and capitalizing on potential opportunities.Building upon past efforts focused on reducing our GHG footprint,we remain committed to implementing sustainable pr
78、actices and policies that contribute to our ongoing environmental objectives.The table below reflects our GHG emissions(Scope 1 and Scope 2)based on available data for each year.We use GHG intensity as a metric to track operational GHG emissions as our business continues to grow.We calculate GHG int
79、ensity as the ratio of energy usage divided by$1,000 USD sales.Operational greenhouse gas emissions highlights include:A 4 GHG emission intensity for 2023,reflecting a modest increase in GHG emission intensity as revenue grew 10%+A 55 MTCOe GHG emissions avoidance through the usage of our employee v
80、ehicle charging stations*2019 data includes US facilities(Monrovia,Lake Forest,Aliso Viejo,Tustin),Switzerland facility(Nidau),and Japan facilities(Ichikawa and Urayasu).*2020,2021,2022 and 2023 data include the same facilities as 2019 plus Brgg,Switzerland.2022 Monthly average2022 Totals2022 MTCOe
81、savings*2023 Monthly average2023 Totals2023 MTCOe savings*Percentage change in MTCOe savingsGHG savings(kg)1,02612,316-321,86022,326-59Approx.80%increase in GHG savingsGasoline saved(gal)3063,6815,5836,670Charging hours(hrs)4845,80894911,38910REDUCTION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTWe designed our Precisio
82、n Manufacturing Center of Excellence in Lake Forest,as well as the updates to our Monrovia facility,with utilization of renewable energy as a factor.We are continuing to look for ways to support the global transition to a low-carbon economy.Mobility and CommutingIn 2023,we encouraged our employees t
83、o utilize the vehicle charging stations,implemented in 2022,for electric vehicle drivers in our Tustin and Lake Forest facilities to promote the switch from fossil fuels and to reduce GHG emissions from employee commuting.A summary of the GHG savings impact is highlighted below:The following chart g
84、raphically represents the data in the previous table.GHG emissions in MTCOe(left axis)by Scope 1 and Scope 2 are represented by the bar graph,while the line graph overlay represents GHG intensity(right axis).As the graph illustrates,even with production increased,our overall GHG intensity remained r
85、elatively stableand Scope 2 emissions increased due to this increase in overall production,Scope 1 emissions decreased by about 3%.The stable total GHG intensity from 2021 through 2023 reflects our ability to manage our GHG emissions relative to our increase in revenue.Scope 1Scope 2Annual GHG emiss
86、ions and GHG intensityGHG intensity(kWh/$1,000 USD of sales)GHG Emissions(MTCOe)YearGHG Intensity(kWh/$1,000 USD of Sales)100012001600140080060040020020192530354020151052020202120222023*GHG Calculation from:www.epa.gov/energy/greenhouse-gas-equivalencies-calculator*https:/www.epa.gov/energy/greenhou
87、se-gas-equivalencies-calculator#results13150,000+Miles driven by an average gasoline-powered passenger vehicleGasoline-powered passenger vehicles driven for one yearSCOPE 1 CO FOR 2023 IS EQUIVALENT TO GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS FROM11REDUCTION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTBy using STAAR provided solar-powe
88、red vehicle charging stations,our employees eliminated greater than 6,500 gallons of gasoline in 2023,which is equivalent*to:65,000 pounds of coal burned 950 sequestered trees CO over 10 years 20 tons of diverted landfill waste 7,000,000 smartphones charges*https:/www.epa.gov/energy/greenhouse-gas-e
89、quivalencies-calculator#resultsFleet ManagementThe year 2023 was the first full year of utilizing our electric vehicle(EV)for transport needs in Switzerland that were previously handled with a gas-powered vehicle.No gas-powered vehicles came off lease in 2023,and so no additional EVs were brought in
90、to service.In the future,as gas-powered vehicles come off their leases,we intend to replace them with zero-carbon vehicles.Our typical delivery vehicle travels more than 13,500 kilometers per year.By switching to an EV,we are able to eliminate greater than 480 gallons of gasoline per year,which is e
91、quivalent*to:4,500 pounds of coal burned 70 sequestered trees CO over 10 years 1 ton of diverted landfill waste 520,000 smartphones charges*https:/www.epa.gov/energy/greenhouse-gas-equivalencies-calculator#resultsEvent ManagementOur European and global events team proactively initiated the tracking
92、of our carbon footprint for STAAR Surgical customer events using the advanced measurement tool TRACE.These efforts have established a baseline for these events,enabling STAAR to monitor our COe impact and plan for upcoming events.As a pilot,we tracked the four separate events held in the Dominican R
93、epublic,the United Kingdom,Switzerland,and Austria.The following table shows the results of the TRACE analysis:Environmental sustainability and diversity are not mere ideals;they are the cornerstones upon which our future rests.As a parent,my dedication to preserving a planet that flourishes for my
94、daughter and future generations runs deep.It is essential that we value and safeguard our environment for its intrinsic worth,while also celebrating the strength found in our diverse human tapestry.By embracing these principles harmoniously,we chart a course towards a more luminous,inclusive,and sus
95、tainable world that benefits every individual and community.”Paula Ommerli-Weber Senior Manager International Product Operations,Nidau,SwitzerlandNumber of AttendeesTotal Emissions(tCOe)Average Emissions per Attendee(kgCOe)Major Source of EmissionsDistribution meeting,La Romana,Dominican Republic152
96、01,4001.Attendee travel2.Hotel accommodation3.Mains electric and gasUser meeting,London,UK65101501.Attendee travel2.Trucking and shipping3.Mains electric and gasEYES 2023,Biel,Switzerland35103001.Attendee travel2.Catering3.Mains electric and gasESCRS 2023,Vienna Austria3401051,6001.Attendee travel2.
97、Production material use3.Trucking and shippingSTAAR INSIGHT12REDUCTION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTGRI 306:Effluents and WasteWaste ManagementHazardous Waste DisposalWe monitor our hazardous trash and electronic waste streams.In accordance with the California Electronic Waste Recycling Act of 2003(SB 20)
98、,we continue to work with our information technology(IT)department to manage electronic trash and to cooperate with vendors for proper management,disposal,and recyclability.In accordance with regulatory approvals,authorized vendors transport our hazardous waste to a facility for treatment,storage,an
99、d disposal.METRIC2020202120222023Total hazardous waste generated*20 tons33 tons34 tons63 tonsAs the table shows,our total hazardous waste generated in 2023 increased by approximately 85%over 2022.This increase is due to expiring manufacturing materials purchased during the COVID supply chain constra
100、ints to assure adequate production materials were available during the pandemic.In 2023,we had zero occurrences of hazardous waste and environmental non-compliance.Paper to ElectronicAs part of our commitment to improving our waste management practices,we continued to increase our usage of electroni
101、c documents.We took steps to reduce our paper use in 2023,and in 2024,we expect to further reduce our use of paper as we migrate to a new ERP system,which will allow us to implement electronic purchase orders and invoicing.We continued our efforts in our electronic Directions for Use(eDFU)in markets
102、 where eDFUs are allowed.Our packaging contains the ISO symbol with our eDFU website address where customers can access the appropriate eDFU.The following table shows the documented actual impact of our paper waste reduction efforts as it pertains to eDFU in 2023:GRI 303:Water and EffluentsWater Usa
103、geSTAAR has made progress in understanding both our water footprint and the effects that water availability risk may have on our business operations.Our manufacturing and primary facilities water supply sources were evaluated in 2020.While most of the water we use comes from local suppliers,in some
104、cases,it must travel across watersheds before it reaches our faucets.We continue to be careful and sensible with how much water we use,especially in regions with severe water shortages,like Southern California.The table below details the water risk for each of our major locations based on the Water
105、Resource Institute Aqueduct Tool Database.FACILITYWater sourceWater risk*Monrovia,CA,USASan Gabriel BasinHighLake Forest,CA,USAOrange County Groundwater Basin/Colorado RiverExtremely highAliso Viejo,CA,USAMoulton Niguel Water DistrictExtremely highTustin,CA,USAGroundwater Colorado RiverExtremely hig
106、hIchikawa,JapanArakawa/TamagawaLow-mediumBrgg,SwitzerlandRhine Basin(Aare)LowNidau,SwitzerlandRhine Basin(Aare)Low*World Resource Institute:Aqueduct Water Risk Atlas We seek to incorporate water-saving and water-stewardship methods into our daily operations as we continue to build on our current pro
107、jects.We strive to stay informed about the areas with scarce water supplies to help us do our part to conserve one of our most precious resources.In 2023,we increased our estimated water usage to approximately 12,430 cubic feet,which is about 1%increase over 2022.This is due to the increase in manuf
108、acturing in our California facilities to support our business growth.While water usage has increased,the overall water usage intensity(ft3/$1,000 USD)continues to decline,demonstrating our continued conservative approach to water usage.METRIC20212022*2023Estimated*total water withdrawn*(cubic feet f
109、t3)761,152 ft3917,120 ft3929,550 ft3Percentage of locations*in high or extremely high-water risk57%57%57%Water use intensity (ft3/$1,000 USD in sales)0.330.320.29Number of incidents of water-related non-compliance100*Water usage,not able to be directly obtained from meter reading on utility billing,
110、was estimated.*Includes our US facilities(Monrovia(Walker),Monrovia(Royal Oaks),Lake Forest,Aliso Viejo,Tustin),two Swiss facilities(Nidau,Brgg),and one Japanese location(Ichikawa).*Water was incorrectly reported in 2022 and has since been corrected.*Based on the Environmental Paper Network Paper Ca
111、lculatorQUANTITY REDUCED 4(US short tons)*WOOD SAVED 30(US short tons)*TOTAL ENERGY SAVED 65(million BTUs)*GHG REDUCTION 34,000(pounds of CO equivalent)*WATER REDUCTION 85(gallons)*SOLID WASTE ELIMINATED 4,900(pounds)*2023 STAAR Paper Waste ReductionEmployee Well-Being,Diversity,Equity,&Inclusion13E
112、MPLOYEE WELL-BEING,DIVERSITY,EQUITY,&INCLUSIONGRI 400:SocialAt STAAR Surgical,we continue to prioritize the safety,well-being,and professional development of our employees,recognizing that they are the cornerstone of our success.As we present this section of the 2024 Sustainability Report,we reaffir
113、m our commitment to creating a safe and healthy workplace that values diversity,equity,and inclusion.Our efforts this past year have been focused on integrating the unique perspectives of our diverse workforce into our business,so that we remain a leader in the industry.This year,we have made notabl
114、e advancements in several areas,reinforcing our dedication to our corporate values,as we continue to grow our company.Employee well-being,diversity,equity,&inclusion highlights include:Achieving a significant reduction in health and safety incidents per employee in 2023 to 1.46 while increasing tota
115、l hours worked by 30%+,showcasing the effectiveness of our enhanced training and proactive safety measures Expanding skills training for employees that provided opportunities for professional growth and staying at the forefront of industry trends,with 10%+of eligible employees participating in the f
116、irst year Attaining 100%compliance with mandatory training in 2023 Reducing our 2023 employee turnover by 20%+from 2022 Empowering local sites to develop their own diversity-month events,demonstrating our commitment to celebrating cultural diversity and fostering an inclusive work environmentThese a
117、chievements reflect our ongoing commitment to our employees,the communities we serve,and our broader social responsibilities.As an employee at STAAR taking a leadership role in our ESG efforts,I am proud to witness the remarkable commitment of our organization to the empowerment,well-being,and profe
118、ssional development of our employees.STAARs dedication to providing opportunities for growth and staying at the forefront of industry trends reflects not only our corporate values but also the recognition of employees as the cornerstone of our success.Our employees are committed to fostering an incl
119、usive work environment that celebrates diversity and the safety and security of our workforce.These achievements are a testament to our ongoing commitment to employee well-being,development,and our broader social responsibilities.”Phuong Nguyen Senior Director,Global HR OperationsSTAAR INSIGHT14EMPL
120、OYEE WELL-BEING,DIVERSITY,EQUITY,&INCLUSIONGRI 103:Management ApproachCorporate ValuesCorporate values are the guiding principles that shape a companys culture,decision-making,and behavior.Corporate values help build a strong organizational culture,attract and retain top talent,and drive business su
121、ccess.As we continue to champion the High Performance Management System at STAAR and the benefits it can provide,we refined our“corporate success tree”to reflect five corporate values that reinforce our commitment to creating a positive work environment,fostering employee engagement,and driving busi
122、ness growth based on our shared commitment to STAARs mission.These values are:Empowerment:We encourage and enable those closest to the activity to make decisions through agreed processes and procedures High Speed of Execution:Act urgently and dont let perfect be the enemy of good enough Accountabili
123、ty:We operate with the highest levels of integrity and do what we say we are going to do Global Mindset:We consider all geographies and cultures in our plans,processes,and actions Fun:We choose a positive,sometime humorous,and respectful attitude every dayOccupational Health and Safety(OHS)is import
124、ant to me as it directly impacts the well-being and safety of our employees,and I have the opportunity in my position to continuously elevate STAARs impact in a positive way.The well-being of our employees is a top priority.OHS is personal to me because I believe that everyone deserves to work in an
125、 environment that minimizes risks and promotes physical and mental health.Personally,I am invested in ensuring that every member of our company has resources by reaching out to our HR team in regard to a healthy workplace environment at STAAR.STAARs focus on occupational health and safety is particu
126、larly meaningful to me.It aligns with my goal of fostering a workplace culture that prioritizes employee welfare.When a company like STAAR places emphasis on OHS,it demonstrates a commitment to creating a safe environment for its employees.This not only resonates with my personal values but also mak
127、es my role in ensuring employee satisfaction and well-being more achievable.STAARs commitment to OHS is advantageous for the company as a whole.A strong focus on it enhances employee morale and engagement,which can lead to increased productivity and fostering long-term employees.By proactively addre
128、ssing safety concerns,STAAR is creating a sustainable and resilient workforce,which ultimately contributes to the overall success and longevity of the company.I see STAARs dedication to OHS as an integral part of our goal to build a healthy,motivated,and high-performing team.”Michelle Ramirez Manage
129、r,Human ResourcesSTAAR INSIGHT15EMPLOYEE WELL-BEING,DIVERSITY,EQUITY,&INCLUSIONGRI 403:Occupational Health and SafetyOccupational Health and SafetyWe aim to provide our employees with a safe and secure work environment where they can thrive.As our business continues to grow,we welcomed over 160 new
130、full-time employees in 2023.We are committed to a culture that prioritizes health and safety.We provide mandatory training to all new hires in alignment with our internal health and safety protocols.We consistently conduct refresher health and safety training sessions and emergency response drills t
131、o keep our employees well-prepared and safe in the event of an emergency.Additionally,we plan for business continuity with our on-site personnel,so that we optimize for normal operations even during challenging times.The Health and Safety Committee in our Southern California facilities is a dynamic
132、team of more than 20 managers and employees from various departments.They come together regularly to champion safety and seek to make our workplace an accident-free zone.Through quarterly facility inspections,detailed documentation,and proactive corrective action plans,they endeavor to keep safety a
133、 top priority.Our safety-related inspections,documentation and corrective-actions plans are retained in our Computerized Maintenance Management System,where completions and approvals are tracked and maintained.Moreover,we carry out comprehensive assessments of the work environment to identify potent
134、ial hazards and introduce appropriate safety measures.We monitor the effectiveness of our safety protocols through regular inspections and audits.In the event of any workplace accidents,we investigate to determine the underlying causes and take corrective actions accordingly.We actively involve our
135、team in the development and maintenance of our health and safety programs and training,thus promoting a robust safety culture.We encourage open communication and value feedback from all employees,as it helps us to continuously improve our safety policies,programs,and overall safety culture.Safety is
136、 also integrated into our annual employee performance evaluations,and applicable employees are evaluated on their adherence to safe and healthy work practices.To assess the effectiveness of our program and training,we monitor our health and safety metrics.In 2023,our Total Recordable Incident Rate(T
137、RIR)and Days Away,Restricted,or Transferred(DART)were 1.46 and 1.13,respectively.Although the Bureau of Labor Statistics(BLS)industry data for 2023 is not yet available,the industry metrics for 2021 are the most current available as BLS industry average TRIR and DART are published biennially.Our hea
138、lth and safety metrics demonstrate that our employees are knowledgeable about safe work practices and are taking the necessary measures to maintain a secure working environment.METRIC*20212022*2023Total recordable incident rate(TRIR)1.302.371.46BLS industry average TRIR*(external source)2.1Biennial
139、numberNot available at time of report publicationDays away,restricted,or transferred(DART)1.302.151.13BLS industry average DART*(external source)1.4Biennial numberNot available at time of report publicationInjuries5119Hours worked769,075928,8821,235,559*US Data only.*Internal review indicates the in
140、crease in TRIR and DART in 2022 is due to the rapid hiring and increase in hours worked(a 20%+increase in hours)combined with limited outlier cases,which skewed overall results.*The use of industry benchmarks is important to measure our performance.These industry numbers are biennial and apply to wo
141、rk-related injuries and illnesses involving stays away from work,restricted activity,or job transfer.We are currently working with our broker on these particular positions to lower our DART rate.(2021)data:TABLE 1.Incidence rates of nonfatal occupational injuries and illnesses by industry and case t
142、ypes,2021:US Bureau of Labor Statistics(bls.gov).(2022)data:TABLE 1.Incidence rates of nonfatal occupational injuries and illnesses by industry and case types,2022(bls.gov).We are mindful of our employees safety during the manufacturing of our medical devices.The Workers Compensation Insurance Ratin
143、g Bureau of California assessed STAAR with an Experience Modification Rate(EMR)of 57%which is better than our target of being under 100%,and better-than-average injury experience of our industry.*In California,EMR stands for Experience Modification Rate,which is a rate factor given to eligible emplo
144、yers annually by comparing their three-year loss experience to the average for employers in the same classification.This is part of Californias workers compensation experience rating system,which is intended to provide employers with a financial incentive to reduce workplace injuries and illness.EMR
145、 is used by insurance firms to price the cost of workers compensation premiums.Any rating under 100%qualifies a company for discounted premiums.16EMPLOYEE WELL-BEING,DIVERSITY,EQUITY,&INCLUSIONGRI 401:EmploymentTalent Engagement and RetentionWe prioritize investing in the growth and development of o
146、ur employees.We understand the importance of providing opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.Thats why we offer a range of training programs and resources to help our employees enhance their skills and knowledge.We also value the well-being and satisfaction of our employ
147、ees.To gauge the satisfaction and motivation of our workforce,we regularly conduct employee satisfaction and engagement surveys.These surveys serve as a valuable feedback mechanism,allowing us to assess the overall work environment and identify areas where we can make improvements.By actively seekin
148、g the input of our employees,we are able to create a company culture that fosters productivity and engagement.Their valuable insights help us shape our policies and practices to create a more positive and fulfilling work environment.Mandatory Employee TrainingIn 2023,we continued to make improvement
149、s to our mandatory employee training for all new and existing employees.Our employees are now required to complete online training on Hazard Communication and Bloodborne Pathogen.Additionally,we provide training to emphasize our dedication to maintaining an inclusive and welcoming workplace.This inc
150、ludes training on our Code of Business Conduct and Ethics;anti-harassment;Diversity,Equity,and Inclusion;and Human and Workforce Rights Policy.Our objective is to provide our employees sufficient knowledge and skills to uphold a safe and inclusive work environment.We are committed to adhering to the
151、 evolving standards and regulations set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and local authorities to safeguard our employees well-being and provide them with top-quality resources for training.COURSES2021 Hours of training*2021 Percentage of employees assigned*2022 Hours of training
152、*2022 Percentage of employees assigned*2023 Hours of training*2023 Percentage of employees assigned*Percentage of change in training hoursHazard Communications(global)74100%89100%*2,135100%*2,299%Bloodborne Pathogens and MRSA(US)74100%89100%*230100%*158%Code of Business Conduct and Ethics(global)178
153、88%216100%*567100%*163%Avoiding Insider Trading(global)9293%216100%567100%*163%Preventing Discrimination and Harassment for Employees(global)7763%*431100%*115100%*-73%*Preventing Discrimination and Harassment for Managers(global)2091%*218100%*40100%*-82%*Data is for US employees.*2021,2022 and 2023
154、percentages of employees apply to new hires,not all employees.*The increase in 2022 training hours is due to the requirement to train California based managers every two years.In 2023,we also introduced several new mandatory training courses globally,enabling a standard vocabulary and consistent emp
155、loyee experience across all regions.New courses include:COURSES2023 Percentage of employees assigned*New Managers(CH and JP)100%Quality Training(for all CH employees)100%Access to Master Control,Good Documentation Practices(CH)100%HR Procedures(CH)*100%Manufacturing Safety and Control(CA)*100%*2023
156、percentages of employees apply to new hires,not all employees.*SOP-0100 Recruitment,SOP-0103 Performance Review,and SOP-0221 Competence,Awareness and Training.*This includes the following topics:management control,complaint handling,adverse events and product/patient safety awareness,document and da
157、ta control,standards and requirements training:software as a medical device,design control,root cause investigation and CAPA,standards training:biocompatibility requirements for STAAR products,production/process control,facilities/equipment control and material control,standards training:sterilizati
158、on requirements.COURSESNumber of employees2023 Hours of training2023 Percentage of eligible employeesWorkbookWord954510%+Workbook PDF954510%+Microsoft Excel 365Entering and Editing Data9010Employees receiving regular performance and career development reviewsAll employees receive annual performance
159、feedbackAll employees receive annual performance feedbackAll employees receive annual performance feedback*US data only for 2021-2022.In 2023,we introduced targeted,global compliance training modules with a mix of online,localized(where applicable),live and interactive content.*Internal review indic
160、ates the increase in employee turnover in 2022 is primarily due to the competitive nature of the entry-level employee market in the US.To help alleviate this,we decreased the employee trial period from 90 to 30 days,moving productive employees to permanent employee status and out of temporary employ
161、ee status sooner.*2023 Aon Radford Salary Increase and Turnover StudySecond Edition Refresh Results(Medical Devices)US Region Industry Cut.*2023 Aon Radford Salary Increase and Turnover StudySecond Edition Refresh ResultsGlobal.Other course offerings include:10 Minute Pandemic Awareness,Managing Up,
162、Career Development:Moving Up the Ladder.GRI 405:Diversity and Equal Opportunity Diversity and Equal OpportunitySTAAR Surgical is proud to be a diverse company.Our team is made up of individuals from various ethnicities and backgrounds,hailing from across the world.We strongly believe that our divers
163、ity is a contributor to our success.Our 2023 Diversity,Equity,and Inclusion metrics include:Approximately 50/50 split in male and female employee population 80%of employees from underrepresented populations 50%of Board members being female and 50%of the Board members are from underrepresented popula
164、tionsMETRIC202120222023Percentage of male employees48%49%50%Percentage of female employees52%51%50%Percentage of employees from underrepresented*populations*81%86%80%Board diversity43%female;29%from underrepresented populations50%female;33%from underrepresented populations50%female,50%from underrepr
165、esented populationsBoard member ageAverage age is 60 years oldAverage age is 58 years oldAverage age is 55Board member tenureAverage tenure is 4.0 yearsAverage tenure is 3.5 yearsAverage tenure is 2.5 yearsAge globally of employees 1820s:208 30s:331 40s:237 50s:177 60s:106 70s:3 80s:1*Underrepresent
166、ed communities are defined as including persons who self-identify as Black,African American,Hispanic,Latino,Asian,Pacific Islander,Native American,Native Hawaiian,Alaska Native,gay,lesbian,bisexual,and transgender.*US data only;note that in some regions,ethnicity is not captured.There are so many be
167、nefits to a diverse workplace including fostering a positive,inclusive,and fun company culture,talent attraction and retention,and enhanced innovation and creativity.I,personally,have learned so much while being part of the DEI committee and I value the fact that the group itself is a diverse group
168、of employees.STAARs focus on diversity serves as an advantage and contributes to the companys long-term success.”Venus Morales-Thompson Manager,Human ResourcesSTAAR INSIGHT18EMPLOYEE WELL-BEING,DIVERSITY,EQUITY,&INCLUSIONIn 2023,our Diversity,Equity,and Inclusion Committee continued to drive diversi
169、ty and cultural efforts throughout the organization.Comprised of a diverse group of STAAR employees,the committees charter is to recognize and celebrate the diversity of our workforce.“Diversity,equity,and inclusion matter at STAAR.We aim to provide employees with a work environment that fosters a g
170、lobally inclusive culture,embracing the diverse nature of our workforce while helping to bring Visual Freedom to the world.”STAARs Diversity,Equity,and Inclusion CommitteeOur company abides by an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Policy statement,which prescribes that we are an equal opportun
171、ity employer.We hire,train,promote,compensate,and take all other employment actions without discrimination based on gender identity,race,color,religion,national origin,ancestry,age,sexual orientation,marital or family status,disability,veteran status,or any other characteristic protected by local,st
172、ate,or federal laws,rules,or regulations.Celebrating DiversityIn our efforts to support diversity,equity,and inclusion at work,we acknowledge and honor a range of holidays and cultural events.These celebrations serve as a valuable platform for our employees to share and educate others about the sign
173、ificant aspects of their respective cultures,thereby fostering an environment that encourages collaboration and understanding.In 2023,we celebrated a range of events,including the Lunar New Year,Black History Month,Juneteenth,Hispanic Heritage Month,Mid-Autumn Festival,and Global Diversity Month.By
174、celebrating our differences and common interests,we aim to unite and build a more inclusive workplace.Two of these events are highlighted below.Celebrating DiwaliDiwali is an annual Hindu festival that commemorates new beginnings,the triumph of good over evil,and the welcoming of the Hindu New Year.
175、It is commonly referred to as the festival of lights and is observed for five days in India and Indian communities worldwide.The festivities comprise lighting lamps,embellishing homes,engaging in shopping,igniting fireworks,offering prayers,partaking in lavish meals,exchanging gifts,and sharing swee
176、ts with family and friends.One of the customs involves performing worship rituals for Lakshmi,the goddess of prosperity and wealth.Diwali was observed on November 1,2023.19EMPLOYEE WELL-BEING,DIVERSITY,EQUITY,&INCLUSIONDiversity is a tool and resource that enables us to adapt to change.It fosters to
177、lerance,promotes resilience,and facilitates adaptation to new circumstances.Celebrating Diwali provides a framework for understanding the world and feeling closer to the person next to you.Its a time for engaging in meaningful discussions that respect and honor cultural differences.As a woman and a
178、minority,STAARs focus on diversity has made me an inclusive leader,bridging representation gaps at influential positions and inspiring me to dream bigger while challenging systemic biases.It taps into a wealth of diverse perspectives,fostering innovative ideas for STAARs success.STAARs inclusive env
179、ironment enables all employees to feel comfortable sharing our own unique perspectives,which translates into creative and productive teams,enhanced employee engagement and a competitive advantage in attracting and hiring the best candidates.Pavithra Ramamurthy Director,Business Intelligence,USASTAAR
180、 INSIGHTCelebrating Global Diversity Month October marks the observance of Global Diversity Awareness Month,an occasion dedicated to recognizing and appreciating individuals from various ethnicities,cultures,genders,and abilities.It serves as an opportunity to celebrate the immense value that divers
181、ity brings to our global community and society,while also emphasizing the importance of respecting and accepting all people.The origin of Global Diversity Awareness Month can be traced back to the end of World War II,when the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted by the United Nations Ge
182、neral Assembly in Paris.This significant declaration established the fundamental rights and freedoms that every individual is entitled to,thereby establishing a framework for the protection of human rights.To honor Global Diversity Awareness Month,STAAR commemorated this event on a global scale duri
183、ng the week of October 2327.Each participating site was empowered to organize their own unique celebration aimed at promoting diversity and inclusion,thus fostering a culture that values and embraces the differences among individuals.20EMPLOYEE WELL-BEING,DIVERSITY,EQUITY,&INCLUSIONDiversity is cruc
184、ial as it brings together a variety of perspectives and enriches our understanding and creativity.Celebrating Diversity Day helps us connect with different cultures and appreciate each other.STAARs commitment to diversity has enhanced my work experience and fostered collaboration among unique indivi
185、duals.Events like Diversity Day create a sense of belonging and strengthen our teams cohesion and productivity.”Jacky Hernandez Recruiter,USADiversity is essential as it brings together a diverse range of backgrounds,experiences,and perspectives,resulting in a more skilled workforce,innovative ideas
186、,and continuous mutual learning.Observing diversity through events such as diversity week is crucial;it provides an opportunity for everyone to learn about and appreciate their colleagues unique cultures.”Lalaina Holivololona Quality Engineer Microbiology,SwitzerlandDiversity is essential in the wor
187、kplace as it helps us understand the varied cultures,beliefs,and customs of our colleagues,fostering a truly global community under one roof.Celebrating events like Diwali at our Delhi Office is significant;it brings us closer,allowing us to revel in the festivities collectively.STAARs commitment to
188、 diversity instills a sense of inclusion,bridging the distance to our parent company and reinforcing our unity.Moreover,STAARs emphasis on diversity signals to newcomers that they will be embraced regardless of color,creed,or ethnicity,which is fundamental to our companys ethos and success.”Avneet J
189、aiswal Zonal Manager,IndiaSTAARs dedication to diversity makes me feel valued,appreciated,and included,enabling me to embrace my identity and heritage without fear of judgment.This emphasis on diversity at STAAR fosters a friendly and socially inclusive reputation,cultivating a positive work environ
190、ment where employees are motivated to excel and give their best.”Saffrin Naicker Quality Assurance Engineer,SwitzerlandSTAAR INSIGHTSTAAR INSIGHTSTAAR INSIGHTSTAAR INSIGHTThe sharing of food from different cultures provides an opportunity to celebrate and embrace diversity while serving as a unifyin
191、g force,bringing people together through the joy of culinary traditions.During STAARs Diversity Week,at our Lake Forest,Monrovia,and Switzerland locations,the exchange of diverse culinary delights allowed employees to connect,appreciate each others backgrounds,and foster a sense of unity within the
192、global community.Diversity TrainingBeginning in 2022,we partnered with a third-party online training provider to make available numerous training courses in diversity and harassment prevention for our employees.Our mandatory courses include STAAR Code of Business Conduct and Ethics(“Code of Conduct”
193、),microaggressions,workplace diversity,and inclusion and sensitivity,among others.Additionally,all employees completed our biannual harassment prevention refresher training.All employees at or above the manager level all attend a mandatory on-site training session about Diversity,Equity,and Inclusio
194、n.This meeting was presented by Sam Gesten,STAARs retired Chief Legal Officer and Dr.Belinda Johnson White,a retired Morehouse College professor and subject matter expert in DEI.Our goals are to foster a more inclusive workplace and to create an atmosphere where everyone is treated with respect and
195、fairness regardless of their identity.We believe that these training courses,along with follow-up conversations,will help us continue the progress we have made.Moreover,respect is one of our corporate values,and we remind employees to live our values.GRI 412:Human Rights AssessmentHuman RightsFoster
196、ing human rights takes many forms at STAAR and is reflected in our policies and initiatives in areas that include workplace inclusion,employee safety,supplier engagement,Equal Opportunity Policy Statement,and our Code of Conduct.All new employees are trained in our Code of Conduct at hire,and we con
197、duct regular refresher training through the companys Learning Management System.Policy Commitment The Code of Conduct mandates that our workforce,executives,and directors act ethically,with integrity,and in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations at all times.Similarly,our Supplier Code
198、of Conduct outlines the expectations we have for our suppliers.Our Human and Workforce Rights Policy outlines our commitment to respecting international human rights principles,including the International Labor Organization Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work.Grievance Mechanism
199、sAt STAAR,we hold ourselves to high standards of business ethics and integrity.We are committed to complying with all laws that affect our business and directing our employees to do the same.To help maintain compliance,we have established an Employee Compliance Hotline that is available to our emplo
200、yees globally.This hotline is designed to allow employees to report any suspected violations of laws,rules,or regulations,as well as illegal conduct or potential violations of STAAR policies and procedures.We require our employees to report any suspected violations to their supervisor,a member of th
201、e companys legal department,or through the hotline.By regularly training on and living the principles of STAARs Code of Conduct,we motivate our workforce to conduct business with honesty and integrity.FOOD ANDCULTURALSHARINGN I D A USTAAR DIVERSITY WEEKSwitzerlandLake ForestMonrovia21EMPLOYEE WELL-B
202、EING,DIVERSITY,EQUITY,&INCLUSIONPhilanthropy and Community ServiceGRI 413:Local CommunitiesOver the past year,we have focused on actively engaging our employees in various philanthropic and community service opportunities.Our programs,which include financial donations,in-kind donations,and employee
203、volunteer programs,have not only allowed us to make a positive impact on the communities where we operate but have also contributed to the overall well-being of our employees.Recent research has shown that company-sponsored philanthropic and community service efforts can lead to increased employee s
204、atisfaction,higher retention rates,and improved overall well-being.In 2023,we focused on enabling employee participation in charitable and community philanthropic activities.We fully launched a Global Employee Charitable Matching Program that was piloted in 2022,enabling employees to have their char
205、itable contributions matched by the company.Additionally,STAAR launched a program for employees to volunteer at local,not-for-profit organizations closer to their physical work location,expanding the opportunities for staff to engage in meaningful volunteer work.By reaching out to our employees for
206、philanthropic and community service suggestions,the company brought community service directly to the employees and provided financial sponsorships to charities near and dear to our employees and local communities.In 2023,we:Held Red Cross blood drives at the Lake Forest and Monrovia locations,which
207、 facilitated 60 volunteers to participate during office hours Set up donation barrels for Toys for Tots in our Monrovia(Walker),Monrovia(Royal Oaks),Lake Forest,Alisio Viejo,and Tustin locations resulting in over 200 toys donated22PHILANTHROPY AND COMMUNITY SERVICEI am thrilled to share that in 2023
208、,we achieved remarkable results in our philanthropic initiatives,including a substantial increase in employee volunteerism and the launch of our Global Employee Charitable Matching Program.We are extremely humbled by our STAAR employees commitment to their communities and our mission of Visual Freed
209、om.It shows that when you provide the opportunity for your employees to engage in philanthropic and community service activities,people do whats in their hearts.Our goal for 2024 is to build on this success and further elevate employee engagement,making an even greater impact on the communities we s
210、erve.”Heather Ready Senior Director,Global Market IntelligenceSTAAR INSIGHT Sponsored$25,000 to The Fallen Firefighter Relief Fund of Orange County Raised over$21,500 for food donations to the Los Angeles County and Orange County food banks,including over$11,500 from employee contributions and appro
211、ximately$10,000 from Corporate MatchingIn 2024,we look forward to continuing to enable our employees to engage in community service that is important to them,and to continuing to grow with our community partners to support Visual Freedom.Philanthropy and community service highlights include:The firs
212、t full year of our employee charitable matching program resulting in 60 charitable organizations supported through financial contributions Approximately$65,000 in total financial donations,which is equivalent to over$300 USD per employee An over 100%increase in employee volunteerismEmployee Engageme
213、ntAs we continue to expand our philanthropic and community service programs,we will track both financial contributions and employee-donated time.In 2023,we focused on employee engagement.We looked to provide more opportunities for our employees to not only participate in STAAR sponsored events,but t
214、o contribute to and volunteer for activities with an organization they are passionate about.As a result,overall employee participation and contributions to all charitable efforts increased substantially in 2023.By opening new channels for our employees to volunteer and support the broader community,
215、the number of organizations supported through financial contributions increased to 63 with an increase of employee participation by over 100%over 2022.METRIC*202120222023%Year-over-year increaseNumber of employees who volunteered 3879160103%Number of employee volunteer hours15040550645%Number of cha
216、ritable organizations supported through financial contributions6663950%*US data only.Global Employee Charitable Matching ProgramThe highlight of our 2023 philanthropic and community service efforts was the launch of our Global Employee Charitable Matching Program.In 2022,we had a limited pilot.The p
217、rogram encourages our employees to contribute to causes that are important to them and their individual communities.STAAR supports the philanthropic efforts of our employees by matchingdollar for dollarthe amount that the employee contributes.During the fall and winter holiday seasons in Southern Ca
218、lifornia,through our sponsored matching fundraising program for the Orange County Food Bank and the Los Angeles County Food Bank,we raised a total of over$21,500,including over$11,500 from employee contributions and approximately$10,000 from Corporate Matching.Every dollar donated was equivalent to
219、four meals.Our employees donated approximately above 86,500 meals!How the Matching Program WorksWhen a STAAR employee makes a direct donation to a qualified,non-profit organization of their choice through the Global Employee Charitable Matching Program,STAAR helps them make an even bigger impact by
220、matching their contribution dollar-for-dollar up to the program limit.For example,if an employee donates$100 to a qualified charitable organization such as UNICEF,then STAAR matches the donation,giving$100 to UNICEF(totaling$200).Eligibility for Charitable Matching ProgramAn organization is eligible
221、 if it is a qualified,non-profit charitable organization(with a 501(c)(3)tax designation in the US,and with similar tax-exempt status internationally).Organizations that discriminate based on race,religion,creed,gender identity and/or expression,sexual orientation,age,disability,or national origin a
222、re ineligible.Donations that will benefit a particular individual(s)(including requests to non-profit charitable organizations directly or indirectly for the benefit of current or prospective customers)are ineligible.Commitment to Visual FreedomWe are committed to serving our local communities.In 20
223、23,we were proud to continue our relationship with Beyond Blindness through both financial contributions and volunteerism.Beyond Blindness is an organization that provides therapy,education,enrichment,and support to children with visual impairments and their families.In 2023,STAAR employees voluntee
224、red and participated in eight Beyond Blindness events,contributing over 350 volunteer hours.23PHILANTHROPY AND COMMUNITY SERVICEThe STAAR team at the Beyond Blindness Vision Beyond Sight Gala.Gala Event at Marconi Automotive MuseumThe Beyond Blindness Vision Beyond Sight Gala,held on March 11,2023,a
225、t the Marconi Automotive Museum,was a fundraising event to support Beyond Blindness initiatives in Orange County.The gala featured various activities such as a dinner program,live auction,and a performance by Emmy-nominated actor,singer,entertainer,and author Tom Sullivan,who is blind himself.The ev
226、ening also included a unique dining-in-the-dark experience,a wine tasting,and keynote speakers.STAAR Surgical and Beyond Blindness have a strong relationship rooted in their shared mission to improve vision.STAARs Visual Freedom mission aligns with Beyond Blindnesss goal of eliminating blindness and
227、 improving vision.STAAR provides financial support and encourages employee volunteerism to further this mission.The collaboration between STAAR Surgical and Beyond Blindness exemplifies a steadfast dedication to driving positive change in the field of vision care,reflecting a core pillar of STAARs s
228、ustainability efforts focused on philanthropy and community engagement.Total Number of EventsTotal Volunteer HoursFinancial ContributionSTAAR employees preparing the beeper eggs to hideBeeper Egg EventThe Beeper Egg Hunt,held on April 1,2023,was an inclusive event organized by Beyond Blindness,allow
229、ing visually impaired children to participate in an egg hunt using auditory cues.It aimed to provide a fun and accessible experience for children with visual impairment.STAARs volunteering at Beyond Blindness24PHILANTHROPY AND COMMUNITY SERVICEYou helped us go beyond for nearly 500 children in 2023
230、and supported Beyond Blindness with an incredible$354,133 this holiday season.Because of your generosity,we are ready to embark on another record-breaking year of delivering cutting-edge Early Intervention,Education+Enrichment,and Family Support services to hundreds of families across Orange County.
231、”Angie Rowe President&CEO,Beyond Blindness$49,000350+8STAARs Getting Spooky at Beyond Blindness Family Enrichment EventOn October 25,2023,Beyond Blindness hosted its yearly family enrichment event at Pretend City Childrens Museum.Our STAAR volunteers helped with setting up tactile Halloween projects
232、 with the kids.Stand4SocksStand4Socks is a charitable organization that allows companies to donate socks through a buy-one-give-one program.The initiative aims to provide warm socks for those in need.In 2023,STAAR donated 300 pairs of socks purchased through Stand4Socks to“From Bristol with Love”to
233、support Ukrainian families suffering the hardship of war.Volunteer to Translate Beyond Blindness Materials into VietnameseThe event Volunteer to Translate Beyond Blindness Materials into Vietnamese in 2023 aimed to engage the community in translating Beyond Blindness materials to make them accessibl
234、e to Vietnamese speakers,furthering the organizations mission of inclusivity and accessibility for the visually impaired.STAAR employees working on tactile Halloween projects with kids for HalloweenSTAAR employees and families preparing to walk for Beyond BlindnessSTAAR represents at the Dr.Frank Vi
235、llalobos/Beyond Blindness Fall Golf Charity ClassicDr.Frank Villalobos/Beyond Blindness Fall Golf Charity Classic at Arroyo Trabuco Golf Club in Mission Viejo The Dr.Frank Villalobos/Beyond Blindness Fall Golf Charity Classic took place on October 16,2023,at the Arroyo Trabuco Golf Club in Mission V
236、iejo.The event aimed to raise funds to empower children with visual impairments and other disabilities by supporting a comprehensive journey of care,providing therapy services,counseling,and education.Destination Independence Walk+Family Fair The Family Fair/Walk held on June 3,2023,was the 19th Ann
237、ual Destination Independence Walk+Family Fair organized by Beyond Blindness,aiming to raise funds to support and expand critical programs and services for the visually impaired.Amount Raised by STAAR:$7,500The High Sheriff Award by“From Bristol with Love to Ukraine,”recognizes STAAR for funding proj
238、ects that benefit the communityPreparing the distribution of socks to Ukrainian Refugees25PHILANTHROPY AND COMMUNITY SERVICEVarious clothing and accessories donated by the STAAR team are available for exchangeSTAAR team preparing to experience dinner in the darkSTAARs Switzerland Second Life Clothin
239、g ExchangeOrganizing an employee clothing exchange for business attire and casual wear is a fantastic way to combat clothing waste in our landfills.In Switzerland,our employees brought in their gently used clothing to offer to others,prolonging the life of their garments and minimizing environmental
240、 impact.Remaining items were donated to Caritas Charity,a local Swiss charity supporting the community.Contribution:55 kgiAware Dining in the Dark Charitable Event The iAware Dining in the Dark Charitable Event on May 4,2023,provided an impactful experience to raise awareness about blindness and vis
241、ual impairments through the unique experience of dining without sight.The event aimed to support iAwares mission of empowering individuals with visual impairments in Cambodia.Total volunteer hours:20 hours Financial Contribution:$25,000Red Cross Mobile Blood Drive at Lake Forest and Monrovia Locatio
242、nsWith a Red Cross mobile blood drive,the Red Cross brings the blood donation process to your work facilities.Total number of events:2 Total volunteer hours:70 hoursBlood drive set at Lake Forest,CA facilityMonrovia site employee donating blood Christmas Packages for Eastern EuropeThe conflict in Uk
243、raine has worsened the economic hardship in Eastern Europe,pushing more residents to the edge of poverty.Christmas parcels from Switzerland are being presented as a gesture of solidarity and gratitude in the midst of a challenging daily life.The joy that these packages filled with food,sweets,hygien
244、e products,school supplies,and toys bring is immeasurable.These parcels are collected by four Swiss aid organizations and distributed to Ukraine,Moldova,Romania,Belarus,Albania,Bulgaria,and Kosovo through local partners.Target Donation:50 Packages Total Donation:105 Packages(115%+of target)Children
245、Package:Chocolate Biscuits Sweets(candy,gummy bears,etc.)Toothpaste and toothbrush Soap and shampoo Notebooks,pens,pencils,and erasers Coloring pens or felt-tip pens Toys(puzzles,balls,stuffed animals,etc.).Socks,hat,scarf,gloves Adult Package:Flour,rice sugar and pasta Chocolate Biscuits Coffee and
246、 tea Sweets(candy,gummy bears,etc.)Toothpaste and toothbrush Soap and shampoo Writing paper and pens Postcards,candles,matches,string,socks,hats,glove,and scarfs STAAR employees preparing and shipping over 100 Christmas packages for Eastern Europe.26PHILANTHROPY AND COMMUNITY SERVICEVision-Related D
247、onationsWe also support other organizations,foundations,and councils that provide resources to those who need vision care.Total number of organizations:5 Total value of contribution:$40,500 iAware Dinner in the Dark Juliette RP Vision Foundation Dr.Andrew SorensonHospital Familia FoundationGuatemala
248、 Indiana Blind Childrens FoundationThrough the Looking Glass Gala Night for Sight,Prevent Blindness GeorgiaSponsorshipsWe are proud supporters of the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery(ASCRS)Foundation,International Society of Refractive Surgery(ISRS),the International Council of Op
249、hthalmology(ICO),Ophthalmic World Leaders(OWL),and Beyond Blindness.27PHILANTHROPY AND COMMUNITY SERVICEWe were able to help with 70 surgeries funding.These are some very grateful patients.Thank you again for your partnership in serving the people here in Peru!We are very grateful.I am sending you h
250、ere a few pictures of our VERY grateful patients.This has been a total life change for them.Some of them have had prescriptions as high as-11.00 diopters.Really incredible results as well.”Please convey our thanks(and theirs)to STAAR:Nathan Henson MD,FWCRS,PGDip CRS,PCEO Director,La Fuente Centro de
251、 Salud Integral Cusco,PeruDr.Nathan Henson with beneficiaries of STAAR ICL donationsContribution in-KindIn addition to our support for vision foundations and organizations,our corporate charitable giving program allows us to make investments in social betterment.In 2023,we contributed to several non
252、-profit organizations to support children and their families who suffer from visual impairments,and to provide ICL surgeries to those who need them.Total number of organizations:5 Total number of donated units:130 Total value of contribution:$196,000 Dr.Nathan Henson Project MyVision Peru Aloha Lase
253、r VisionMaui relief efforts Salus University,Dr.Jim Lewis Dr.Jeff Whitsett Donation for charitable work in Argentina China Teachers Program Corporate Ethics,Responsibility,and GovernanceAs part of STAARs Legal and Privacy team,I play a significant role in our regulatory compliance efforts,as well as
254、 our ESG governance.Having a community dedicated to ethical and responsible business practices is crucial for risk management and an important part of why I am so proud to work at STAAR.I am privileged to spearhead our ESG governance initiatives and support our“empowered employee”ethos.The data clea
255、rly demonstrates that employees in diverse and inclusive companies(like STAAR)have longer tenures and are driven to contribute to improved business results,innovation,and decision-making.The positive impact of our empowered employees is visible in many aspects of our company,including numerous data
256、protection champions across the organization.This result underscores our unwavering commitment to data security and privacy,the effectiveness of robust training programs,and our remarkable workforce and Information Security team.”Kathleen Determann Associate General CounselGRI 102:General Disclosure
257、s 2021GovernanceAt STAAR Surgical,we have developed charter documents and guidelines regarding important corporate governance matters,which reflect our commitment to building long-term shareholder value with an emphasis on good governance.For further details on these guidelines and other corporate g
258、overnance policies,please visit our Investor Relations webpage or consult our most recent Proxy Statement.As of the end of 2023,our Board was comprised of six directors.In March of 2024,we expanded the size of our Board to eight,and two new directors joined our Board.Our Board has established three
259、standing committees,which assist the Board in carrying out its oversight responsibilities.In support of good governance practices,our Board structure also has a Lead Independent Director,which is new for 2023,who serves as a liaison between our Board Chair and the independent directors.AUDIT COMMITT
260、EEProvides oversight of the financial reporting process,the companys independent auditors and the audit process,internal audit function,STAARs system of internal controls,risk mitigation including cybersecurity assessment and management,and compliance with laws and regulations.COMPENSATION COMMITTEE
261、Establishes the executive compensation program,approves executive compensation,recommends CEO compensation to the Board for approval,and oversees human capital management.NOMINATING AND GOVERNANCE COMMITTEERecommends the appointment of directors,establishes the skills and characteristics required of
262、 director candidates,oversees Board evaluations,develops corporate governance principles,and oversees sustainability matters.123STAAR INSIGHT28CORPORATE ETHICS,RESPONSIBILITY,AND GOVERNANCEAs part of its responsibilities,our Board oversees the assessment of our major business risks and the measures
263、we take to identify,mitigate,and manage our risk profile.Members of management provide regular updates to the Board and its committees on our significant ESG activities,including the risks and opportunities they present.These committees,in collaboration with our operational Device Safety Committee a
264、nd Health and Safety Committee,work diligently to uphold the quality,responsibility,and sustainability principles of STAAR by implementing innovative solutions that align to the values of our investors,business partners,employees,customers,and the communities and patients we serve.Board DiversityThe
265、 Board is also committed to having a membership that reflects a diversity of gender,race,ethnicity,age,and background.This commitment is demonstrated by the fact that the eight-member Board currently includes four female directors and four directors who identify as members of underrepresented popula
266、tions.Our directors currently range in age from 41 to 68 years old.GRI 103:Management Approach;GRI 417:Marketing and Labeling Business Ethics and Ethical Marketing PracticesAt STAAR,we place a strong emphasis on upholding ethical business practices by aligning our core values with integrity,ethics,a
267、nd compliance.We seek to foster confidence in our surgeons by providing them with training,education,and support on our products to enhance patient care.Our team members are required to adhere to our Code of Conduct,as well as our Compliance Program for Interactions with Healthcare Professionals.Our
268、 comprehensive policies and initiatives offer clear guidance on various aspects concerning interactions with healthcare professionals,including:Upholding ethical business standards,which involve respecting the independent medical judgment of healthcare professionals Prohibiting the promotion of off-
269、label use for STAARs medical devices in accordance with the US Food,Drug,and Cosmetic Act and relevant laws Establishing limits on interactions and expenses related to meals during meetings with healthcare professionalsOur employees undergo regular training in the Code of Conduct,credible reports of
270、 violations are investigated,and appropriate corrective measures are taken based on those findings.Our Internal Audit function regularly assesses compliance with internal policies,such as regular Code of Conduct training and spending limits for interactions with healthcare professionals.Moreover,our
271、 Medical,Legal,and Regulatory departments systematically review promotional materials to confirm accuracy,fair balance,and compliance with applicable regulations.Additionally,we require that distributors comply with applicable local regulations on medical device marketing.Leadership and Oversight of
272、 ESG InitiativesWe have established four committees to lead our ESG efforts,which meet regularly to review progress on ESG initiatives.29CORPORATE ETHICS,RESPONSIBILITY,AND GOVERNANCEESG STEERING COMMITTEEA global,cross-functional team which meets periodically to review progress on our key ESG initi
273、atives and to consider future ESG imperatives.ESG SUB-COMMITTEECross-functional teams who support the ESG Steering Committee in action planning and employee engagement for our European and Asian teams and global environmental and climate risk initiatives.CLIMATE RISK COMMITTEEThis committee consider
274、s climate-related governance and risk management,greenhouse gas metrics,tracking and controls,and climate-related financial metrics.The committee works to identify and set strategy as it relates to material climate-related risks.DIVERSITY,EQUITY,AND INCLUSION COMMITTEEA cross-functional committee co
275、mprised of a diverse group of STAAR employees.They foster a work environment that is globally inclusive and embraces the diverse nature of our workforce while helping to advance our Visual Freedom mission.This committee meets regularly and reports progress to our CEO.GRI 410:Security Practices;GRI 4
276、18:Customer PrivacyData Security and PrivacySTAAR maintains a commitment to safeguarding customer,employee,consumer,patient,and company data while adhering to relevant laws and regulations.The oversight of our privacy and security compliance falls under the purview of STAARs Chief Information Office
277、r(CIO).Collaborating with the Data Protection Officer,Director of Information Security,and Internal Audit functions,our CIO addresses cybersecurity and data privacy risks.We continuously enhance our electronic tools,information governance,and security controls to fortify our cybersecurity defenses,e
278、nabling swift responses and mitigation in the event of data breaches.Moreover,we uphold business continuity by maintaining backups of critical systems,disaster recovery capabilities,and cybersecurity insurance.In 2023,our Information Security team initiated regular employee training sessions utilizi
279、ng real-life cybersecurity scenarios to heighten awareness of prevalent tactics employed by threat actors.Our employees undergo annual training covering local data privacy compliance,cybersecurity awareness,and the significance of safeguarding our information assets.This training regimen is compleme
280、nted by the development of our Data Privacy and Security Program,guiding employees on securely managing personal information essential for our operations.Topics include:Handling and safeguarding personal information Security incident reporting procedure Global security password policy Data privacy a
281、nd security incident response protocol Information governance and sensitive data managementInformation Security and Cyber Risk Awareness(localized and role-based)INFORMATION SECURITY AND DATA PRIVACY TRAINING*2021 Hours of training*2021 Percentage of Employees Assigned*2022 Hours of Training*2022 Pe
282、rcentage of Employees Assigned*2023 Hours of Training2023 Percentage of Local Employees AssignedUS Information Security Training Participation*21481%10793%12092%Global Information Security Training ParticipationN/AN/AN/AN/A8898%US Data Privacy and Security Training Participation*10881%309100%N/AN/AG
283、lobal Privacy and Data ProtectionN/AN/AN/AN/A5,801100%GDPR Introduction and OverviewN/AN/AN/AN/A134100%GDPR for Data HandlersN/AN/AN/AN/A107100%How to Comply with the GDPR in the USN/AN/AN/AN/A75100%Key Principles of the GDPRN/AN/AN/AN/A30100%Navigating the GDPR with our US PartnersN/AN/AN/AN/A58100
284、%Personal Information Protection Law(PIPL)(China)Simplified ChineseN/AN/AN/AN/A57100%Transfers of Data Outside of the EUN/AN/AN/AN/A38100%California Privacy Rights Act(CPRA&CCPA)N/AN/AN/AN/A61100%Protection of Personal Information:Japan Edition JapaneseN/AN/AN/AN/A57100%*US data only.*Note,informati
285、on security and cyber risk awareness training is offered globally in local languages.At the time of this report,information pertaining to hours of international training and the percentage of employees assigned is unavailable.*Replaced in 2023 with Global Privacy and Data Protection course.30CORPORA
286、TE ETHICS,RESPONSIBILITY,AND GOVERNANCELastly,in working with our Internal Audit function and external cybersecurity experts,we execute assessments of our network and systems security controls,including periodic global phishing tests.STAARs Internal Audit function reports the results of these assess
287、ments to the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors.While we have previously leveraged ISO 27001 as guidance,we assessed our cybersecurity program to implement a more formal corporate standard framework.As a result,we have adopted the National Institute of Standards and Technology Cybersecurity F
288、ramework(NIST CSF)as the governance framework for our cybersecurity program and created a strategic plan to enhance,monitor,and maintain our program.METRIC202120222023Total amount of monetary losses as a result of legal proceedings associated with user privacy000Number of law enforcement requests fo
289、r user information000Number of users whose information was requested by law enforcement000Percentage resulting in disclosure000In 2023,STAAR did not have any data security breaches that exposed PII*,PCI*,PHI*or corporate restricted information pertaining to either STAAR or our customers,patients or
290、vendors.STAAR continues to invest in our information security infrastructure,monitoring and employee training,consistent with our dedication to data protection.*Personally Identifiable Information(PII),or Sensitive Personal Information(SPI),as used in Canadian,US,and European privacy law and informa
291、tion security,is information that can be used on its own or with other information to identify,contact,or locate a single person,or to identify an individual in context.*The Payment Card Industry(PCI)Data Security Standard(PCI DSS)is a proprietary information security standard for organizations that
292、 handle branded credit cards from the major card schemes including Visa,MasterCard,American Express,Discover,and JCB.*Protected Health Information(PHI)generally refers to health data,such as patient name,date of birth,vision information,and other unique identifiers that a US healthcare professional
293、collects as part of providing health care services.31CORPORATE ETHICS,RESPONSIBILITY,AND GOVERNANCEAt STAAR,I am leading a significant project to implement an electronic validation solution globally,transitioning from a 100%paper-based process to reduce waste,maintain data integrity,and enhance comp
294、liance.These efforts align well with my background as an engineer and my passion for streamlining processes with consistent output,waste reduction,and conserving resources.A large project like this requires a great deal of organizational change management.Working with a diverse team,some direct repo
295、rts and others extended members from other departments,really enhances our deliverables.With various experiences,backgrounds,cultures,and genders,we all come together to work efficiently and effectively toward our common goal,demonstrating that diversity is a key factor in delivering impactful busin
296、ess solutions.Everyone wants a work environment where they are valued and able to contribute and have a positive impact on the business.STAARs focus on the environment and diversity not only offers economic advantages with potentially improving the financial health of the company but presents STAAR
297、as an attractive option to potential new employees,and investors.”Manjeet Punekar Senior Director,Global ValidationGRI 416:Customer Health and SafetyAt STAAR,we are committed to a culture of quality that remains central to our business operations and our products.We believe that our products and ser
298、vices should consistently exceed customer expectations in terms of quality,safety,and efficacy.This commitment is upheld through the continuous enhancement of our quality management and business systems,along with adherence to global regulatory standards.Our responsibility is paramount,reflected in
299、the design and development of our EVO ICL lens in alignment with international ISO standards to achieve outstanding levels of quality.Embracing a culture of continuous improvement,we employ a risk assessment and mitigation strategy as outlined in ISO 14971.This approach encompasses evaluating risks
300、associated with design,materials,processes,manufacturing,packaging,and usage.Key points highlighted in our approach include:Designing and developing the EVO ICL lens in accordance with ISO standards Utilizing a risk assessment and mitigation strategy as per ISO 14971We incorporate specific standards
301、 for the EVO ICL,including:ISO 11979 series for intraocular lenses ISO 10993 standard for biocompatibility materials handling and processing ISO 11607 and ISO 17665 standards for packaging and sterilization ISO 13485 for medical devices quality management systemsOur ongoing manufacturing processes a
302、re maintained and improved through our Quality Management System.Compliant with ISO 13485 standards,our Quality Management System is essential for regulatory compliance under the US FDA Quality System Regulations(21 CFR 820)and has undergone rigorous audits and certifications by our EU Notified Body
303、 and other regulatory authorities.32PRODUCT AND OPERATIONAL QUALITYSTAAR INSIGHTProduct and Operational QualityInnovation and MaterialsAt STAAR,our foremost commitment lies in prioritizing the safety and effectiveness of our medical devices to enhance patient health outcomes.The core of our operatio
304、ns revolves around providing products free from hazardous materials at the point of packaging and delivery to surgeons for implantation.Our dedication to innovation is evident in the utilization of advanced lens materials that not only deliver exceptional optical performance but also underscore our
305、efforts to minimize our environmental footprint and promote employee safety within our operations.Supply Chain ManagementWe adopt a thorough approach to evaluating the quality and traceability of our materials and products across our supply chains.Our critical suppliers,processes,materials,and produ
306、cts adhere to the quality system requirements specifically designed for medical devices.Engaging in third-party audit initiatives is a key aspect of our commitment to ensuring that our processes,controls,and systems align with the diverse quality system standards mandated by regulatory bodies global
307、ly.Monitoring the performance of our suppliers is integral to our operations.This involves a structured program that encompasses assessing the materials supplied and conducting audits on the facilities,systems,and processes associated with these materials.Our focus remains on upholding product quali
308、ty standards and mitigating supply chain disruptions through effective supply chain management practices,internal audit protocols,and alignment with our Quality Management System.We are dedicated to transparency and traceability within our supply chains.We do this to safeguard the integrity of our p
309、roducts and streamline the speed-to-market process,which reinforces our commitment to delivering high-quality medical devices efficiently and reliably.Supplier Code of ConductWe are committed to achieving our objectives with integrity and in alignment with our values.We maintain high standards for o
310、urselves and expect a similar level of integrity from our suppliers.Central to our supplier engagement is the Supplier Code of Conduct,which serves as an extension of our standard terms and conditions of purchase.When selecting partners,we assess their alignment with the principles and values in thi
311、s code.The Supplier Code of Conduct encompasses key areas such as business ethics,human rights,quality assurance,and legal compliance.Suppliers undergo audits based on their ranking within our supplier hierarchy.All suppliers within our Quality Management System are mandated to endorse the Supplier
312、Code of Conduct before approval and are subject to periodic audits.We approach our supplier relationships with a sense of responsibility and diligence.We collaborate with suppliers in their efforts to abide by our shared values and dedication to ethical conduct as we strive for mutual success and su
313、stainability in our business endeavors.Supplier Auditing and AssessmentWe assess and audit our suppliers according to risk.We categorize our suppliers into five risk tiers(Rank A,B,C,D,and E in the table below),according to the products and services they provide.Their assigned tier determines the fr
314、equency(illustrated in the table below)and scope of our review for each supplier.Depending on their risk tier,suppliers undergo varying levels of audits and documentation.Audits may be on-site,remote,or desk audits,depending on the most applicable method.We sell a Class III medical device;as such,we
315、 require certain suppliers to maintain their own Quality Management System and comply with international regulations and standards,including EN ISO 13485:2016.Audits are intended to determine,among other things,the suppliers compliance with their quality management system.Our highest-risk suppliers
316、participate in external agency audits by a recognized international regulatory agency such as the US FDA or International Standards Organization(ISO).STAARs supplier management team audited greater than 65%of critical suppliers(rank A and B),which accounts for 60%+of total spend.65%+of our critical
317、suppliers were audited by STAAR Surgical in 2023 compared to the industry standard benchmark of approximately 43%of critical suppliers/year.We incorporate standards specific to medical devices such as:The Council Directive 93/42/EEC of 14 June 1993 concerning medical devices(MDD 93/42/ECC)The Medica
318、l Device Single Audit Program,under the International Medical Device Regulators Forum(IMDRF)(MDSAP)The EN ISO:13485:2016Medical devicesQuality Management SystemsRequirements for regulatory purposes Regulation(EU)2017/745Applies to medical devices and their accessories,and it aims to ensure a high le
319、vel of safety and health protection for patients and users.The MDR applies to manufacturers,authorized representatives,importers,and distributors of medical devices33PRODUCT AND OPERATIONAL QUALITYRANK*Annual auditsAudit every 2 yearsDesk audit every 3 yearsReview of consultant services and qualific
320、ations every 2 yearsReview of consultant services and qualifications every 3 yearsPercentage of supplier audited in 2023Percentage of total spendAProduct or service supplierX100%20%BProduct or service supplierX55%40%BConsultantXCProduct or service supplierXCConsultantX*Rank D and E suppliers do not
321、require regular monitoring.Product TraceabilityWe maintain a system to facilitate the traceability of materials and products through well-established procedures.Incoming materials and components are assigned part numbers for backward traceability,while finished products receive lot numbers for forwa
322、rd traceability.Particularly for Class III medical devices like our implantable lenses,each is allocated a distinct serial number to facilitate traceability.This approach enables us to monitor the movement of materials and products across our manufacturing operations,in an effort to uphold quality c
323、ontrol measures and comply with regulatory standards.To document traceability effectively,we utilize work orders for all medical devices,with a planned transition from paper-based to electronic work orders set as a priority for 2024.Our electronic ERP system plays a pivotal role in this process by g
324、enerating unique serial numbers and maintaining transactional data for medical devices.Barcode scanning is employed during labeling and final packaging stages to enhance efficiency,while Unique Device Identifiers are generated by our ERP system for medical devices,further bolstering traceability mea
325、sures at the point of customer delivery.Product ManufacturingIn alignment with regulatory requirements,our organization has established internal protocols for the proper disposal of all waste,including any potentially hazardous chemical by-products generated during our manufacturing operations.Compl
326、ementing our waste-reduction initiatives detailed in the Environmental Impact section of this report,STAAR collaborates with certified vendors for the disposal of hazardous waste and conducts regular testing of wastewater to support adherence to relevant regulations.Within our Quality Management Sys
327、tem framework,we have implemented processes and protocols to evaluate and mitigate risks associated with potential exposure of our products to harmful chemicals.Standard operating procedures are in place to govern the handling and management of potentially hazardous materials throughout our raw mate
328、rial manufacturing processes.Regular reviews of these standard operating procedures are conducted to proactively minimize the generation of hazardous waste and overall waste output.Relevant Standard Operation Procedures(SOPs)Management of materials and waste products utilized in our routine manufact
329、uring operations,encompassing the reception and handling of chemicals,storage and removal of chemical waste,and disposal of containers holding chemical raw materials Implementation of gowning and personal protective equipment(PPE)mandates for controlled manufacturing zones to prevent product contami
330、nation and safeguard employees against material hazards.This includes stipulations for environmental control,hygiene protocols,product and process oversight,and the gowning procedure for restricted areas.Additionally,it outlines proper storage and handling methods for in-process components and assem
331、blyOur processes are directed to avoiding patient exposure to any hazardous chemical substances through our lenses.We maintain procedures and systems to provide product traceability and identification regarding the following stages of manufacture and distribution:Raw materials and components receipt
332、 Manufacturing,assembly,testing,labeling,and packaging Finished goods warehousing Delivery to the surgeon customer Patient implant34PRODUCT AND OPERATIONAL QUALITYProduct Use and Patient SafetyIn our commitment to patient safety,we adhere to industry standards like ISO 11979-5 Ophthalmic ImplantsInt
333、raocular LensesPart 5:Biocompatibility.This standard incorporates rigorous extraction testing and cytotoxicity assessments to verify the absence of significant quantities of potentially harmful chemicals in our products upon completion and delivery to the customer.Surgeon TrainingWe require certification training for surgeons who are our customers to verify that they are well-informed before offer