In order to ensure that our environmental protection standards are safeguarded throughout the Group and continuously optimized, we have established the following principles as our company guidelines:

• The continuous improvement of the environmental performance, in particular of water pollution control, soil protection, and immission control, is a key target of the Environmental Protection division.

• For reasons of accountability, environmental and climate protection should be developed in such a way as to conserve natural resources and avoid or minimize strain on the environment and our employees.

• Issues of environmental protection should be taken into account equally in the planning and development of new products and production processes.

• Processed raw materials and intermediate products should be brought into the economic cycle as completely as possible, and unavoidable waste should be properly recycled or harmlessly disposed of. Raw material suppliers are advised on issues related to environmental protection if needed.

• Technical and organizational measures to avoid accidents and operational disruptions are in place to prevent or minimize environmental hazards for our employees and neighbours, as well as effects on the environment.
• Our employees’ sense of responsibility in environmental protection should be strengthened, and objective, open, and respectful dialogue should take place with them, the relevant authorities, and the public.
• Our customers are appropriately informed about the features of our products and necessary safety measures and are advised on questions related to product disposal.
• Contractors working for us must be selected, informed, and advised in such a way as to ensure that laws and our environmental protection standards are observed.
• ​​​​​​​Compliance with legal regulations is the basis and minimum standard of our activities. Ongoing improvement in environmental protection is enshrined in our corporate strategy and is one of our key responsibilities.