Green Light for European CSR Alliance Given in Brussels

In Brussels EU Commissioners Günter Verheugen and Vladimir Spidla, together with leading European companies, gave the green light for the European Alliance for Competitive and Sustainable Enterprises. The objective of the alliance is to strengthen the social responsibility of European companies. The open partnership between the European Commission and industry will enhance understanding of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and improve the exchange of information. At the same time, it is hoped that new CSR projects will be set in motion among European businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises. Volkswagen is one of the initiators of the alliance.

For many years, Volkswagen has been at the forefront with national and international CSR projects. These projects are not an altruistic end in themselves, but a firm element of corporate culture. “Growth and jobs not only need a competitive legislative framework and a positive climate for innovation, social stability and social cohesion are also crucial factors,” said the Chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG, Dr. Bernd Pischetsrieder. The integration of social and environmental aspects in entrepreneurial action not only helps society, but also benefits the companies themselves. Volkswagen welcomes the Commission’s new cooperative approach to improve knowledge on CSR and create conditions conducive to the realization of socially responsible management. Volkswagen has assured the Commission of its support in its efforts to enhance the quality of CSR in Europe even further in future and make a contribution to the common goal of a sustainable and competitive Europe.

At Volkswagen, CSR is a key element of ethical corporate management. Sustainability is one of the seven Group Values that characterize the company’s management culture. Volkswagen is aware of its responsibility for the successful development of the regions in which its plants are located and sees itself as a partner of institutions and communities in these areas. Examples of Volkswagen’s social commitment include the Aids care projects in Brazil and South Africa as well as the “One hour for the Future” project initiated by the company’s workforce to care for street children at Volkswagen locations around the world. Environmental protection also has high priority. At the recent Geneva Motor Show, Volkswagen presented the new Polo BlueMotion, an efficient, low-consumption vehicle that uses less than 4 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers and is also fun to drive.