Issues of Materiality

Our Approach to Materiality

As a company engaged in reproductive medicine, Kitazato Corporation addresses social challenges through its business activities in line with its corporate philosophy, “Happiness, for the Next Generations”.

Taking into account changes in the healthcare environment and the stakeholder expectations, we have identified key issues (materiality) to be addressed in order to achieve sustainable value creation.

This materiality will be reviewed continuously in response to changes in the social environment and will serve as a guiding framework for enhancing corporate value and contributing to the advancement of reproductive medicine.

Materiality Identification Process

STEP 1: Identification of Issues

• Refer to international guidelines (ISO 26000, GRI Standards, SDGs)
• Consider social issues specific to reproductive medicine
• Identify risks and opportunities related to the Company’s business
• Take into account stakeholder expectations (patients, medical institutions, employees, local communities, regulatory authorities, etc.)

STEP 2: Assessment of Importance

• Evaluate the degree of impact on stakeholders
• Assess the contribution to the Company’s business strategy and value creation
• Analyze from the perspectives of risk mitigation and opportunity creation to identify priority issues

STEP 3: Goal Setting and Promotion Framework

• Set goals and KPIs for each key issue within the responsible departments
• Monitor progress through the Sustainability Committee (or Management Committee)
• Implement improvements and revise plans as necessary

Kitazato Corporation’s Materiality

1. Advancement of Reproductive Medicine and Creation of Patient Value

By providing products that contribute to improving success rates and safety in fertility treatment, we support a future in which patients and their families worldwide can maintain hope.

• Drive innovation in cryopreservation technologies, culture technologies, and medical device technologies
• Conduct collaborative research with medical institutions
• Enhance product safety and reproducibility
• Ensure stable supply to global markets

2. Ensuring Quality and Safety (Assurance of Reliability)

As reproductive medical products are directly related to the beginning of human life, ensuring the highest levels of quality and safety is essential.

• Implement rigorous quality assurance and quality control systems
• Ensure compliance with international regulations (CE, FDA, etc.)
• Collect and respond promptly to usage and safety information
• Maintain thorough traceability and control over the manufacturing process

3. Respect for Human Rights and Creation of Diverse and Fair Workplaces (DE&I)

We respect all individuals—including employees, patients, medical institutions, and society—and promote environments in which people can work and take on challenges with confidence.

• Promote diverse talent
• Prevent harassment
• Provide fair evaluation and equal opportunities
• Develop comfortable working environments and implement health management initiatives
• Enhance employee capabilities and expertise

4. Reduction of Environmental Impact and Sustainable Production and Supply Chain

As a manufacturer of reproductive medical products, we establish environmentally conscious production systems and contribute to the creation of a sustainable society.

• Reduce CO₂ emissions through initiatives such as solar power generation and energy-saving measures
• Minimize packaging materials and promote recycling
• Manage water resources and waste appropriately
• Ensure environmentally responsible procurement and build sustainable supply chains

5. Strengthening Corporate Governance and Compliance

As a company involved in healthcare, we emphasize management with a high level of ethics and transparent decision-making.

• Strengthen governance structures
• Enhance risk management and internal controls
• Provide thorough compliance education
• Prevent corruption and prohibit bribery
• Ensure appropriateness and transparency of information disclosure

6. Contribution to Local Communities and Future Generations

As a company that “creates smiles for the next generation,” we fulfill our responsibilities as a member of society.

• Conduct donation activities for children and welfare facilities
• Implement environmental initiatives, such as the Kitazato Beach Clean Project
• Promote understanding of reproductive medicine and provide educational support
• Collaborate with local communities and create employment opportunities