Sustainability
Report 2014www.stahl.com

Table ofcontents

2 Sustainability Report I 2014

Statement of the CEO

5

About Stahl

6

Sustainability Vision & Strategy

10

Sustainable Development

12

Future-proof Raw Materials

14

Responsible Operations

15

Innovative & Smart Solutions

16

Trusted Partnerships

16

Our People

17

Sustainability Projects

18

Annex

25

Sustainability Report I 2014 3

Statementof the CEO

Huub van Beijeren

Sustainability as a driver of innovation

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

Sustainability is a major challenge in our industry. We want

However, sustainability throughout the supply chain goesto ensure that our planet remains a pleasant place to live.

beyond that. How can leather waste pieces and coated fabrics,

Not just for ourselves, but also for our children and ourthat are left over after the production of a jacket or sofa,

grandchildren in the future. That is why we at Stahl take ourbe reused? Should they be simply thrown away, or can new

responsibility seriously. We see it as a ‘must’ that we takeproducts be made from them? What is the environmental

the lead in the field of sustainability. Not just by looking at

impact if a shoe with our coating is incinerated or disposed of?

what is happening in our company, but throughout the entire

Can we reduce the environmental impact? These are also

supply chain. Of course, we want people to process ourquestions for which we try to define solutions. Sustainability

chemicals in a safe and responsible manner and in a way thatis the key driving force for innovation. By creating increasingly

causes the least environmental impact possible. This raises

sustainable production processes, we can develop a competitive

many questions - for us and our customers. How can weadvantage. This is not only a task for our colleagues in R&D,

ensure less energy and water is consumed by tanneries?

but for all of us. Every step takes us closer - a step further

How can we stimulate the reuse of water during the production

to an even more sustainable future.

process? How can we further contribute to the reduction of a

4 Sustainability Report I 2014

cars’ fuel consumption? These are subjects we are discussing

Huub van Beijeren

with our clients and we work together to find solutions.

CEO

Sustainability Report I 2014 5

About Stahl
Stahl is leading in process chemicals for leather products, performance coatings

Expertise and proximity

Researchand polymers used for and applied to automotive, industrial applications,

Stahl employs more than 1.800 employees at 11 manufacturing

At Stahl, we strongly believe that research is a sound basesites and 38 laboratories in 23 countries. This world coveragefor the future. That is why we invest more in R&D than any

makes Stahl a leading player within the field of chemicals forother company in our industry. Stahl’s success in adapting

leather products covering the whole leather processing chain

product mix to the changing customers’ needs and market

Partnerships are vital to us, as we believe that working side-by-side offers

and performance coatings. As the market of performance

dynamics is largely attributable to the innovativenessthe best possibilities to produce success-stories. Setting an example ourselves,coatings is growing every day, Stahl is determined to keepof its product and application development teams. Stahl isplaying a prominent role in this rapidly growing sector.

committed to invest in products, services and business

Today and tomorrow, from Brazil to the Netherlands, from thedevelopment to meet the needs of customers and ensure

USA to Singapore and from Italy to India: Stahl always brings

a strong local presence in each market. Research and productthe best in smart and sustainable solutions in specialty

application are customer oriented with high tech equipment

chemicals. In each region we have the possibility to carry out

simulating production conditions.

home furnishing, leisure and lifestyle and apparel & accessories industry amongst
others. Since the 1930’s we are looking to realize the best possible solutions.

we aim for a transparent and sustainable supply chain.

the physical test requirements for the OEM’s, their tiers andfashion brands. With our latest technologies, innovations andthe most up-to-date testing equipment, we can always assure
the best application possible, a whole life long.

6 Sustainability Report I 2014

Sustainability Report I 2014 7

StahlOrganization

Wet-End Division (Leather Chemicals)

Leather Finish Division (Leather Chemicals)

Performance Coatings

Sustainability Champions

In our Wet-End Division the latest technologies from rawhide

Stahl is the world’s leading company in the treatment of

Performance Coatings is a fully integrated business unit within

Stahl established a Sustainability Champions Team, which willtreatment to crust are all available. Dedicated experts makeleather and related products with nearly a century of

Stahl, focused on special top coats and finishes for flexible

help to integrate sustainability throughout the organization

sure customers have exactly the products they need all

experience in leather applications. Leather finishes add value

and non-flexible substrates. We develop custom-made coatingby means of their specialized understanding of the Stahlalong the way of leather manufacturing. On top they will get

to customers’ leather by their technical and aesthetic

solutions, finishing and upgrading for virtually any type ofsustainability vision and strategy and their influence in the

all our knowledge: recipes, application tips, problem solvers,

superiority and by tailor making leather finishing processes. At

synthetic surface, both flexible and rigid. The range of coatingsbusiness lines. The Champions are ambassadors within theemergency teams, etc. Stahl experts are always at ready to

Stahl, the world’s best leather technicians work side-by-side

covers many different industries and areas of application:company and within their Business Lines. They heavily support

assist customers in achieving exactly the leather needed forwith leading fashion experts to develop leather articles ofautomotive, apparel and accessories, home furnishing,

junction between every business lines and the other businesseach possible application.

superior quality and design, much appreciated by leadingindustrial application and leisure and lifestyle.

service functions.

fashion and interior design brands worldwide.
Stahl is the market leader for both process chemicals andPielColor

Picassian® has been Stahl’s polymer brand since 2006.

finishes for automotive leather. In close co-operation with

PielColor is the second brand within the Stahl Group. Since

In 2014, Stahl acquired Clariant’s Advance Surface Coatings

our customers our automotive specialised leather technicians

1977, PielColor has been providing high quality leather finish

Division and the renowned Relca® product range. Stahl Polymers

develop custom made leather tanning, coloring systems andproducts and expert technical knowhow. PielColor understands

develops high-quality coatings and inks that have less impact

finishes. The combined expertise in application and formulationthat fashion changes from season to season and is fullyon the environment. The portfolio offers high-performancetechnologies provides a balanced fundament for the creationcommitted to changing with the needs of the industry.

polyurethanes to specialty acrylic emulsions and carbodiimide

of a wide range of customized leather finishes that cover aWith a strong presence in the Spanish, South American andcrosslinkers for architectural coatings, the metal industry,broad spectrum of touch, aesthetics and durability, versatile

Chinese market, PielColor is now counted as one of the top 10

graphic arts, electronics, automotive or fashion. The Polymers

enough to allow the various OEM’s present in the luxury carcompanies in the world in the leather finishing chemicals

will meet the most stringent coatings requirements.

market to create a ‘personalized’ interior car impression.

manufacturing industry.

8 Sustainability Report I 2014

Wet End

Stahl Polymers

Automotive Leather Chemicals (Leather Chemical)

Sustainability

Leather Finish

R&D

Automotive
Leather Chemicals

MarketingCampusSustainability
Champions

Pielcolor

Performance
Coatings

Polymers

Sustainability Report
I 2014 9
Wet EndSustainability
Vision & Strategy
Our vision

Being market leader brings an obligation to act responsibly

Sustainability in all our daily businessscope is broader than that. We are committed to the guiding

and secure a sustainable future for the industry, our people

We are convinced that only a commitment from the highest

principles of UN Global Compact and work side-by-side“We are not only concerned with our performance today,

and the rest of our world. In the long run healthy ecosystems,

level ensures that sustainability becomes integral part ofwith the international NGO ‘The Natural Step’ to ensure

but also with the lasting impact we have on the planet.”social equity and good organizational governance ensures

our daily business and operations. That is why we appointed

sustainability is in our DNA. We constantly monitor our key

a desirable future for each and every one of us.

a Director of Sustainability in Stahl’s Management Team

products from a sustainability- perspective and examine

in 2012. This pushes the development and sales of more

our supply chain. We try to inspire other companies in the

only want to be leader in terms of our solutions. We also see

Leading role in sustainability

sustainable products and guarantees that we can reallyindustry to act in the same responsible manner as we do.

it as our obligation to take a leading role in the move to higher

The environmental aspects of sustainability are very important,make a difference. In 2014, a second person joined theenvironmental standards within the chemical and leather

such as safeguarding natural resources, minimizing pollution

sustainability team. In addition, at Stahl every employee is

Our Sustainability Strategy:

industry. Our goal is to provide top-quality products andand reducing and eliminating waste. In fact, leather is a natural

responsible for sustainability. It is not a one-man job. So we

Creating awareness and cooperation within the industry
	

services to our customers that minimize the environmental

product and has been used since man first walked the earth.

have established a Sustainability Champions Team which

Investing in local communities & education	

impact and do not violate human rights. This mentality is felt

Hides from hunted animals or slaughtered cattle were usedsignals, develops and monitors projects that can take us

Investing in R&D to stimulate sustainability	throughout our whole organization and manifests itself infor clothing and housing to protect from the harsh climate.

further ahead.

Working side-by-side with The Natural Step	

all our daily businesses and operations.

Since then leather has developed into an article that is used

At Stahl we strongly believe in taking responsibility. We not

all over the globe. However, with increasing technology andprocessing chain, we see it as an obligation to take a leading

the importance of sustainability is felt throughout our whole“When it comes to corporate responsibility we take abetter working conditions within the industry.

organization. We also see it as our obligation to take a leading

frontrunner position in the market by initiating transparencyrole in contributing to higher environmental standards withinin the supply chain.”the entire supply chain.

We are not only concerned with our performance today, ouruse of chemicals, sustainability did become a major challenge

We take a leading role in sustainability as market leader	

in our industry. We are confronting this issue seriously andWe commit to UN Global Compact	
We ensure sustainability is an integral part of our	daily operations

10 Sustainability Report I 2014

As the global market leader in chemicals for the leather

Strategy

Our Sustainability Vision:role to contribute to higher environmental standards andSustainability Report I 2014 11

Sustainable
Development
Wet EndOur
peopleIn 2012 Stahl began a new journey to make sustainable development much more
integrated and effective for us as a core business strategy. The focus in 2014

To help us coordinate and communicate

Leather
FinishSustainability
Stahl had to include dealing with the acquisition of a new business,
almostdoubling

our Sustainable Development wethe size. During that time our sustainability efforts continued as you will seein the following chapter.
R&D

Sustainability
We engaged an international NGO - The Natural Step
Champions(TNS) - to help guide us in our work on sustainable*

MarketingAutomotive

are using five key aspects of Stahl’s
Innovative& SmartSolutions

In a Sustainable Society, nature is not subject

Performanceto systematicallyincreasing:development. We use the TNS System Conditions for

Coatings
1 … concentrationsof substances from the Earth’s crust,a Sustainable Society to guide us.

2 … concentrations of substances produced by society,

Sustainability
Principles

Future-proof
Raw
Materials

business – future-proof raw materials,
responsible operations, innovative &efficient solutions, trusted partnerships
and our people.

3 … degradation by physical means. , and people are notCampusPolymersthat systematically,
subject to conditions
4 … undermine their capacity to meet their needs.

TrustedPartnerships

Responsable
operations

As we proceed on our sustainability journey, these principles*

www.naturalstep.org

Pielcolor

will guide us and help to anchor our commitments.

Wet End
12 Sustainability Report I 2014

Our
peopleSustainability Report I 2014 13

Responsible Operations
SHE

ISO Norms

Safety, Health and Environment is pivotal to a chemical

We act according to these external systems, as most of ourcompany such as Stahl. Central to our extensive SHE-policy

production locations are ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certified.

is that we protect our colleagues, our fellow-men and theenvironment. SHE is responsibility, SHE is caring. In pursuit

UN Global Compactof our business objectives, Stahl gives safety, health andWe have committed to the guiding principles of UN Global

environment the first priority.

Compact. The UN Global Compact is a leadership platform

Prevention is better than cure and“this is felt throughout our whole organization.
Our motto:

We protect our colleagues and each other.
Stahl has no history of severe incidents
and a very good track record when it

Future-proof
Raw Materials“

comes to safety

for the development, implementation and disclosure of
responsible corporate policies and practices in the fieldof human rights, labor, environment and anti-corruption.
With this commitment we take a standpoint that we will live
up to the ten principles in the field of human rights, labor,
environment and anti-corruption.
We do everything possible not only to reduce our impact on
the planet, but also to improve the working conditions within
our industry. Everyone deserves a chance to earn a decent
living and work in a safe environment. With offices around the

Safe teamwork starts with making an effective safety

globe, we are doing all we can to improve working conditions

plan that is followed by everyone. Safety is ultimately about

and prevent child labor throughout the supply chain. This isbehavior, sticking to agreements and addressing each othera responsibility that does not start and end at our own factoryin matters of poor conduct. At Stahl, we are always focusedgates. We are talking with both suppliers and customers

on paying sufficient attention to all potential risks andon this subject. We stimulate them to follow our example bycontinue to improve and optimize our safety. It is ourchoosing for a better future for each and every one of us.

SHE-policy to manage all our activities to give benefit toPlease find our Letter of Commitment on Annex 6.1.

society. We adhere to the SHE Value to ‘not hurt anyone,annoy or alarm our neighbors or harm the environment’.

Continuous Improvement of Environmental Performance
In environmental management, Stahl has outlined clear

Renewable/Bio-based raw materials

in more than 23 countries this is not an easy task, but as

At Stahl, we:reporting criteria in order to determine how to reduce

With the help of a Sustainable Lifecycle Analysis (SLCA),

it is an important issue. We conscientiously follow theGive safety, health and environment the first priority.
	

the negative impacts of our organizations’ actions on thewhich was developed by TNS, we started to have a deeper lookguidelines of fair-play.

Identify hazards and establish appropriate controls	

environment. Here, the conservation of natural resources,

into every single ingredient of our products. Out of this it ispossible to identify the sustainable attributes of the product.

REACh

In future we will even more investigate to increase the degree

Stahl informs and shares data with the suppliers of raw

of renewable and bio-based raw materials in our products.

materials, as well with its customers from whom a description
is expected on how they use Stahl products on their sites.

Procurement

These communication requirements by REACh should avoid

In order to adhere to a corporate code of conduct in whichinterruptions of the supply between suppliers and customers.

the principles on human rights, labor, environment andAs an organization within the supply chain in different REACh

anti-corruption are well respected, Stahl pays close attention

roles and responsibilities (manufacturer, importer, supplier,to the companies with whom we cooperate. Responsible

distributor and end-user) Stahl receives an increasing number

sourcing is pivotal for us and we ask for declarations fromof requests for information. Stahl ensures that all information

our global suppliers that they do not solicit in force andrequired for its REACh compliance is made available on

compulsory labor and/or child labor. As Stahl operates

a timely basis.

for risks, potential adverse environmental impacts andemission of pollutants, environmental hazards and theregulatory requirements in the invention, manufacture,

conditions of a safe working environment are being described.

sale and use of its products.

The aim of the environmental management strategy is toProvide customer care with all products throughout the	supply chain.
Aim to eliminate all injuries, occupational illnesses and	environmental incidents.
Report and investigate all incidents, then take corrective	action and share learning.
Assure that employees and agents have appropriate	
competencies for their roles.
Define SHE requirements in simple, clear terms, communicate	

continuously improve the environmental performanceof the organization. This reporting system is the outcomeof the daily practice of consistent operations in line withstrict safety, health and environmental guidelines. It is fully
integrated in the organizational structure and part of ourplanning of activities and official annual reporting cycle.
It is central to the processes and resources used within theorganization as well as in the development, implementation
and review of our environmental policy.

them to all employees and secure their involvement.
Report, monitor and audit all aspects of SHE performance	
to confirm compliance and planned continual improvement.
Celebrate and reward excellence in SHE Performance.
	
Require all employees to accept personal responsibility for	their own safety and health and that of their colleagues.

14 Sustainability Report I 2014

Sustainability Report I 2014 15

We organize ‘Sustainability Road Shows’ in countries	like India, Mongolia, Bangladesh and so on to spreadthe message of the importance of sustainability.

Our People

We support the establishment of a sustainable leather	
industry in cooperation with the Mongolian Government,
Dutch government, Dutch NGO (MVO), MIM (Made in

Stahl employs more than 1,800 employees in 23 countries

Mongolia) and others.

at 11 manufacturing sites and 38 laboratories. While having

We are part of the Leather Working Group, a worldwide
	a global reach we always act on the premise: think global,

group of enterprises active in the entire leather supply

act local. All our people are simultaneously creating,chain: from leading consumer brands, tanneries andexperiencing and sharing the Stahl story, which is essentiallychemical companies. Together we want to find more

a strong belief in cooperation. That is why we prefer to work

sustainable solutions within the industry itself.

closely together with our colleagues and clients. Together

We raise the child labor issue whenever possible with our	

we spark innovation that opens up endless possibilities.

customers in countries where this is known to still exist.

New possibilities that help to create a better future,

We walk away from customers and markets where we arefor our clients, our colleagues and the environment.

not allowed to bring about improvements in this area.
At Stahl, we encourage:

Innovative &Smart Solutions

Investing in local communities & people

teamwork	

As a multinational company with a presence in all corners

initiative	of the world, Stahl has taken on the responsibility to work inpersonal growth	

local communities and establish good relationships within

innovation
	

those communities. Stahl sees it as its responsibility tocreativity	

support local communities to increase employment, skills
and economic activity. For more information, please have

Communicationa look at our Sustainability Projects, Annex 6.2.

The entire organization is aware of the importance of our
mission. Employees come up with ideas and proposals

Transparent Supply Chainthemselves - through the Green Ideas project, for example,

At Stahl, we aim for a totally transparent supply chain.

which has resulted in a hundred entries and hundreds of

We adhere to a corporate code of conduct in which theinspiring thoughts about how Stahl can promote sustainability.

principles on human rights, labor, environment andAdditionally, in February 2014, our second official CSR reportanti-corruption are paramount. Our suppliers are obliged

set an important benchmark because we intend to use thisto declare that they do not solicit in force and compulsory

report as the basis for our annual improvements.

labor and/or child labor.
R&D
Stahl maintains technological edge through continuous

Trusted Partnerships

Stahl’s internal magazine, World of Stahl, which is available
In order to be true to our own guidelines, we establishedfor every Stahl employee, had one full edition about Stahl

R&D investments for increasing demands from clients.

Stahl Campus

a Stahl Procurement Team. This team of dedicatedSustainability achievements and how everyone in the company

This includes sustainable investment in R&D to continuously

Knowledge and cooperation are key to create a supply chain

professionals is responsible for the procurement of all

can contribute to a more sustainable future. Not only in thisimprove specifications and product ranges.

that is both more sustainable and more transparent. At Stahlproducts and services from reliable suppliers, who can

edition, but also in all others you can always find something
about sustainability.

Campus - a global knowledge center for the leather industry -meet our high standards. Always striving to develop positive,

Cost and environmental pressure also drive technology

we invite tanners, manufacturers, OEM’s and others to join

open and long-term relationships with our suppliers,

development towards new chemicals:

and to strengthen their knowledge through training. Stahl has

we encourage them to seek continuous improvements in all

Together with The Natural Step Stahl provided an E-learning

	Strong portfolio of green chemicals with 95% water-based

the experience, the know-how, the facilities and instruments

aspects of production. These aspects encompass quality,

course for everyone in Stahl, to provide a deeper knowledge

to create first-class educational surroundings. So that’s exactly

costs, processes, manufacturing, but equally important areabout what sustainability means and how sustainable behavior

	Stahl operates 9 R&D centers coupled with production sites

what we do, guided by the motto: Let’s learn to create a better

issues such as sustainability and human rights.

can be translated to daily business activities.

	Key R&D facilities are in Waalwijk (Netherlands), Parets

future together!

or solvent free solutions.

(Spain) and Leinfelden (Germany).
	R&D department employs c.90 FTEs, representing c.5% of
total FTE.
	Most products developed by the R&D depart­ment are
tailor-made solutions difficult to copy.

Creating awareness and cooperation within the industry
Responsibilities do not start and end at our own factory
gates. We are talking with both suppliers and customers on
this subject. We have signed up to the United Nations Global
Compact to ensure we meet certain standards and show
constant improvement. We stimulate suppliers and customers
to follow our example by making similar commitments.

16 Sustainability Report I 2014

Sustainability Report I 2014 17

Sustainability
Projects
Mongolian tanneries

project is help setting up of Mongolia’s first sustainableproject to help tanners develop their production processes

The production process of products with the ADUU MAL label

tannery. Apart from providing advice and assistance to makeand improve the quality of their leather. This will quickly

is as sustainable as possible. Firstly, we have educatedStahl is investing time and expertise in the Mongolian leather

Mongolian tanneries sustainable, we do the same at sites

help the tanners to offer products to the global market andMongolian tanneries on the production of chrome-free leather

industry. The goal is threefold - to make local production

where footwear, bags and clothing are produced.

provide them with more opportunities to take matters intoand on the processing of those specific horse hides that would

their own hands.

not have been tanned otherwise. Secondly, any wastewater isprocesses more sustainable, to better the working conditions
for the local workers and to improve the quality of leather.

Mongolian leather sector

The first concrete result is the creation of a sustainable

Since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, the Mongolian

Sustainability label: ADUU MAL

clothing and accessories line from Mongolian leather withleather industry saw very little development. The tanners

Since the partnership started in 2013, more and more

the label ADUU MAL. This label signals Dutch consumers thatmainly use local chemicals, which means international

Mongolian tanners are using new technologies and products

Apart from Stahl, the following Dutch companies are involved

leather shoes, bags or jackets from Mongolia are produced

safety and environment standards were not always respected.

that are less harmful to the environment. Tanners whoin the initiative: OAT Shoes - a company that has brought fullyin the most sustainable manner. For more information visit:

As the economy in Mongolia is growing and the government

participate in our project are particularly well rewarded

biodegradable shoes to the market; MYOMY - a sustainable

www.aduumal.com

encourages green development, the spotlight has started

with a certification, which allows them to annotate their

bag brand; the DNR brand from Donders that offers sustainable

to shine on sustainability in recent years.

products with a Mongolian sustainability label: ADUU MAL.

leather jackets; and the clothing brand, Traced Good - that

This label helps them to increase their market share. At the

strives for transparency in the supply chain.

Stahl has teamed up with the Mongolian Government,

purified and reused. Finally, tanners, tailors and shoemakers

Dutch government, Dutch NGO (MVO), MIM (Made in Mongolia)

Along with the famous Dutch fashion designer Hans Ubbink,same time, the label signals Dutch consumers that leather

and other companies to support Mongolian tanneries in

MVO Nederland and other Dutch companies in the leather

shoes, bags or jackets from Mongolia are produced in theestablishing a more sustainable industry. The first concrete

industry, we want to do our part. Together we initiated amost sustainable manner.

18 Sustainability Report I 2014

are assured of good working conditions and earn fair wages.

Sustainability Report I 2014 19

Sustainability
Roadshows

Sustainability for Leather conferences in places

With a presence of over 200 tanners, academics and otherthat are available. Another major theme touched upon byconference in Lahore with a positive and inspired feeling.

most needed

Pakistanis connected to the leather industry, the conference

Minister Shuja Khanzada was the processing of waste.

Previously, Stahl organized similar conferences in India andIn countries like India, Pakistan, Mexico and Bangladesh

had a wide scope. The Minister of Environment from the

For generations tanning-methods in Pakistan are passed

Bangladesh. The attendance in Pakistan, just like India andmethods are passed over from father to son. Environment-wisePakistani province of Punjab was one of the prominent speakers.

over from father to son and the Minister stressed the benefits

Bangladesh earlier, demonstrates that the entire chain is openof modernizing the leather industry so that both people andto sustainability. As Stahl, we think that it is our responsibility

the environment can benefit.

to accelerate the process. In the near future Stahl is goingthese are not always the best solutions, so Stahl organizes
Sustainability for Leather conferences with spokesmen who

Call to action: stop using harmful chemicals

are well respected in the local community. They stress theIn Punjab, you’ll find many active tanners. At the conference,

benefits of modernizing the leather industry.

Minister Shuja Khanzada called on them to stop the use

Cooperation within the entire supply chain

countries. All these conferences will be held in the local

to organize Sustainability for Leather conferences in otherof harmful chemicals in their daily routines. A lot of theseEveryone at the conference agreed that only throughlanguage to increase the impact amongst local tanners

The Stahl Sustainability for Leather conference in Pakistan

chemicals are not only bad for the health of the workers

cooperation within the entire supply chain of the leather

and other visitors. Besides visiting new countries with

Sustainability forms the foundation of Stahl’s vision for thethemselves, but also for the world in which we all live.

industry, real and lasting effects in regard to sustainability

Sustainability for Leather, we will also return to Pakistan,

future and using that concept we organized the Sustainability

The Minister pointed out the alternatives, telling them about

can be achieved. With that message ringing in their ears,

India and Bangladesh to reinforce the message offor Leather conference in Pakistan’s second city, Lahore.

the many water-based, environmentally friendly chemicals

all the attendees left the Stahl Sustainability for Leather

sustainability.

20 Sustainability Report I 2014

Sustainability Report I 2014 21

Supporting local
communities

As a multinational company with a presence in all corners

a yearly international design competition. When it comes

We have organized medical camps for women and children

Stahl China has an agreement with Sichuan University toof the world, Stahl has taken on the responsibility to work

to sustainability, Donna-e-Mobile feels the responsibility toand donated medicines to children’s home. We also donate

offer scholarships and internships. This university specializes

in local communities and establish good relationships

support and involve design students in their path of creating

to an orphanage in the name of Sri Ramakrishna Mission.

in educations for the leather and textile industry. We offer

within those communities. We see it as our responsibility

sustainable designs.

donations to the Suzhou orphanage society as well as the
Stahl China

to contribute to the development of the communities

local red cross.

Stahl India

Stahl China was rewarded with the 2013 Economical

Stahl India has provided employment opportunities toContribution Award. This recognition is for advanced

Stahl Asia PacificStahl Holdings / Stahl Europe

inhabitants of the neighboring settlement. Every year theseenterprises that have made outstanding contributions to the

Stahl Asia works closely together with local institutions

Stahl Holding supports SLEM (Shoe Leather Education andemployees are examined medically. Opportunities in Stahleconomic and social development for the Xuquan Townshipon student internship placement, in particular in the area

Museum) and contributes yearly to two scholarships for theirenhance their economic stature in the society and alsoof the Suzhou New District. Stahl established a typical goodof Chemical Process Technology. This offers the younger

Master of Footwear and innovation. In addition, Stahl Europe

uplift the standard of their lives.

example for optimizing development of the environment,

generation a broader perspective of our industry. Furthermore,in which we are present.

upgrading the industrial structure and enhancing economic

it provides opportunities to apply their academic knowledge

In addition, Stahl Holding supports ‘Move’. Move is an initiative

Stahl India is also a member of the National Safety Council.

efficiency. Stahl China received the Certificate of Clear

in a real world environment relevant to their field of study,of Stichting Donna-e-Mobile: a network of Automotive

This organization deals with overall safety awareness in

Production from EPM.

plus it stimulates personal growth.

Woman Designers. Move invites design students to join inindustries and they organize camps, lectures, visits, et cetera.

their search of what the future could look like by organizing

In addition, Stahl India sponsors the fight against leprosy.

supports the Shoe and Leather Museum in Waalwijk.

22 Sustainability Report I 2014

Sustainability Report I 2014 23

High fashion heels
with STAHL EVO

Annex
UN Global Compact

Fashion and sustainability go hand in hand

In addition, she took specialized classes in Fashion Footwear

To support fashion brands in lowering the environmental

Design at London College of Fashion (UK), Polimoda (Italy),

impact of their products, we developed a complete STAHL

Prescot & McKay (UK) and at our partner SLEM. In 2013

EVO range. The next generation polyurethane coatings

she was nominated for the Global Footwear Design Award.

for shoes, bags and other fashion items. Belgian designer

In 2014 she became the Belgian finalist in the prestigious

Katrien Herdewyn designed fashion heels by using STAHL EVO

Muuse x Vogue Talents - Young Vision Award Accessories.

shoe upper. The result? A high fashion item inspired by and

In November 2014, she started her own shoe label: Elegnano.

with respect for nature.
Enchanting and delicate, yet edgy and sharp. That is how you
can describe the style of footwear designer Katrien Herdewyn.
Katrien used our sustainable STAHL EVO to create these highfashion heels.
The inspiration for the design comes from the lotus-flower
and the anatomy of the human hand. The heel holds the shoe
delicately like humanity should do with nature. The design isasymmetrically wrapped around the foot. The name for the
shoe ‘Avarizia’ refers to the human greed to take what we canfrom nature, but realizing we can only do this in a respectful
and synergetic way.
Katrien graduated in 2010 as a civil engineer with a masterin Nanoscience and Nanotechnology at the Universityof Leuven. After her studies, she started a PhD in Sciencesin combination with a study in Footwear Design at the
Academy of Fine Arts of Sint-Niklaas.

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Sustainability Report I 2014 25

Stahl’s Code of Conduct

STAHL GROUP S.A.
BUSINESS PARTNER CODE OF CONDUCTThe business partner shall respect intellectual property rights and safeguard customer information.
The business partner shall manage technology and know-how in a manner that protects intellectual
property rights.

Introduction

Environmental

STAHL is committed to the highest standards of social and environmental responsibility and ethicalconduct as described in the STAHL Group S.A. Code of Conduct. STAHL requires its business
partners to comply with the same or at least equal ethical standards and operate in accordance withthe principles in this Code of Conduct (‘Code’) and in full compliance with all applicable laws andregulations. STAHL expects suppliers and/or business partners to use a proactive approach inestablishing and maintaining the standards set forth in this Code and conduct themselves withresponsibility and integrity. The business partner states to agree to the conditions in this Code andacknowledges that any deviations found can have an adverse effect on the relation with STAHL
including an immediate discontinuation of the business relationship.

The business partner shall respect the environment and comply with all (supra) national
environmental, health and safety legislation and regulations. The business partner shall conduct his
business processes in such a manner that compliance is guaranteed.

The business partner commits, in signing this Code, to all applicable legislation and regulations. This
Code therefore forms an integral part of the agreement between the business partner and STAHL. To
verify compliance with the Code, STAHL shall consult with the business partner from time to time.
STAHL has the right to speak and to train employees of the business partner directly in order to fullycomply with the Code. If this is deemed appropriate, STAHL can request that an audit can be
conducted by a third party to be appointed by STAHL. The business partner states to fully cooperate inthis investigation.

Discrimination

STAHL expects his business partner to comply with the UN Global Compact Guiding Principles in theareas of human rights, labour, the environment and anti-corruption and wishes to emphasize thefollowing specific areas of interest.
Ethical/Integrity
Laws and regulations
The business partner operates in full compliance with international, national and domestic laws andregulations that are applicable to their business operations, and obtain all necessary permits.
Business integrity
The business partner shall not engage in corruption, extortion, embezzlement, or bribery to obtain an
unfair or improper advantage. The business partner shall abide by all applicable anti-corruption laws
and regulations of the countries in which it operates including all applicable international anticorruption conventions.

SocialHuman Rights
The business partner shall conduct their activities in a manner that respects human rights as set out in
The United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

The business partner shall unconditionally respect all anti-discrimination conditions in (supra) national
legislation and regulations.
Working hours
The business partner shall not force their employees to work excessive hours and shall comply with all(supra) national legislation and regulations concerning labour and labour conditions. In case
employees are asked to work overtime, their extra work is compensated in line with local legislation.
Child and forced labour
The business partner shall respect all (supra) national legislation and regulations applying to childlabour in line with Convention 138 (Minimum Age) and Convention 182 (Worst forms of Child Labour)of the International Labour Organisation. The business partner shall not use work that is performed
involuntarily under threat of penalty.
Health and safety
The business partner shall implement strict policies with the aim of creating an incident and injury freework environment. At all levels, the business partner will play an active role in identifying and rectifying
unsafe (health) situations.
Business partner representative

Free and fair competition
STAHL will compete for business. The business partner also value free and fair competition
throughout the world and comply with anti-trust and competition laws.
Confidentiality--------------------------------------------------------Date--------------------------------------------------------The business partner protect all confidential information provided by STAHL and its respective
business partners.
Protection of Intellectual Property

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Signature

Sustainability Report I 2014 27

FOL046/042015

www.stahl.com
The information provided herein is not intended
to form part of any offer or contract for thesale. Pictures, descriptions and statements
are only artistic impressions and they are notrepresentations of fact. STAHL does not warrant
the accuracy and correctness of the information
and will not be responsible in any way for any
inaccuracy or omission of information herein,
as well as for changes in colours and printing
errors, or for any loss suffered by any person
as a result of relying on the information.