The success of sustainable technological progress hinges on its ability to factor in economic and social implications from the very outset. In other words, innovations must be both economically viable and acceptable to society as a whole.
Tackling global warming while at the same time meeting growing energy demands from emerging economies is one of the most complex tasks we face today. Linde is working on a variety of solutions to these issues. Which is why this report showcases technologies with the potential to reduce our carbon footprint – either today or in the near future. They do this, for example, by raising plant efficiency levels, reducing emissions or enabling energy resources to be tapped in environmentally sound ways.
However, at Linde, sustainability is not just a question of searching for clean technologies and establishing ourselves as a key partner for the energy industry. We believe that the social impact of our business activities is just as important when planning for sustainability.
We therefore empower local management to invest in surrounding communities and provide rapid aid in the event of crises, as was the case following the earthquake in China’s Sichuan province. These local activities are framed within a wider policy that defines our main spheres of action. At Linde, these are education, science and research.
Our Corporate Responsibility Reports and the additional information that you will find on this website will allow you to see for yourself how successful we have been in achieving our goal of harmonising sustainability with business success.
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Wolfgang Reitzle
Chief Executive Officer of Linde AG
