BASF India sales up 15pc
Kolkata, June 29 : Leading chemical company BASF in India has published its 2011 corporate report, based on its performance across three dimensions of sustainability - economy, environment and society.
In its third year of publication, the BASF in India Report documents business highlights, to sales and employee figures, to environmental data, to social and educational initiatives undertaken and awards and recognition achieved in 2011.
"The BASF in India Report shows how we create value for our stakeholders by combining economic success with social responsibility and environmental protection," said Prasad Chandran, Chairman BASF Companies in India and Head South Asia.
"With this report, we aim to ensure transparency in our business operations and promote open dialogue with our stakeholders and the communities where we operate."
EUR 1.158 billion sales to customers in India
BASF in India achieved EUR 1.158 billion in sales by location of customer (Rs.75,137 million), an increase of 15pc compared to 2010 (Rs.61,056 million) despite economic volatility. With the merger of BASF legal entities in India and acquisition of the specialty chemicals business of Cognis in India, the focus remained on chemical innovations that address the challenges brought about by global megatrends, such as the need for resource efficiency, enhanced food and nutrition, and better quality of life.
Managed emissions with increased production
In 2011, BASF in India achieved a reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of 10pc (59,219 metric tons), while emissions of air pollutants saw a decrease of 30pc (327 metric tons) compared to 2010. Total primary energy consumption, which constitutes electricity, fuel and steam consumption per ton of product, decreased by 11pc (38,536 MWh), 19pc (61,196 MWh) and 4pc (65,823 metric tons) respectively. Overall energy efficiency also improved due to improvements in certain production processes.
In 2011, BASF's Mangalore site won first position in the state-level "Safe Industry" award from the Government of Karnataka, in recognition of BASF's consistent care and commitment towards the safety and security of its employees and the local communities surrounding its operations in Mangalore.
Social outreach focuses on education
On the social front, BASF in India undertook a joint project on Water Education with UN-HABITAT and The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI). The project targets 5,000 students from 25 schools in Mangalore and aims to bring about behavioral change among young students regarding water use. It will equip schools and students to analyze the physical and chemical properties of water and impart skills on how to purify water.
Under its "Million Minds" initiative, BASF worked closely with industry associations to formulate a code of ethics for corporates, to help improve governance standards. BASF also held its seminar series on corporate governance and business ethics in collaboration with educational institutes.
In the International Year of Chemistry, 2011, BASF added momentum to its ongoing educational projects and strengthened academic relationships through contests and lectures in science colleges. BASF also continued the roll-out of its global chemistry education program, BASF Kids' Lab, which aims to introduce young students to the fascinating world of chemistry.