Coatings - AkzoNobel

Environmental targets achieved ahead of time
Akzo Nobel achieved its targets for the reduction of
waste and emissions to air and water in 1997, three
years ahead of the envisioned final date. We are striving
to make further reductions within the framework of
Responsible Care and Coatings Care, in line with the
principle of continuous improvement formulated in the
ISO 14001 standard. Employee involvement in this field
is encouraged through Managing Total Environment
(MTE) courses.
More detailed information on HSE matters is presented
in Akzo Nobel’s 1998 Corporate Environmental Report,
which will be published in the summer of 1999.
AKZO NOBEL IN SOCIETY
To be a respected member of society
In 1998, Akzo Nobel received the King Willem I Award,
which was presented by HRH Prince Claus of the
Netherlands. This distinction was awarded by the King
Willem I Foundation for several reasons, including the
Company’s ability to successfully anticipate rapid
international market developments, its leading role in
the field of safety, health and environment, its
stimulation of student interest in science and
technology, and international cooperation with
universities and scientific institutes.
The Akzo Nobel Science Award was conferred on
Professor Rob Schilperoort of the University of Leiden
for his international pioneering work on the
genetic modification of plants. This method of
transferring DNA to plant cells was developed in order
to cultivate strong plants and thus reduce the need for
biocides. The technology also makes it possible to
produce plants that furnish the basic materials for the
production of industrial enzymes and animal vaccines.
In 1998 the Education Fund sponsored a large number
of projects. In China in the province of Yanqing,
furniture was provided for schools in seven villages and
in Garwhal, India, new classrooms were built for
450 pupils. The funds for these and other projects came
from donations of Akzo Nobel employees and the
Company.
AKZO NOBEL ANNUAL REPORT 1998
17
In addition to the Education-Industry Partnership
program which aims to stimulate young children’s
interest in science and technology, numerous initiatives
are being taken all over the world to strengthen the ties
between our plants and the local communities.
For example, the Industrial Coatings North America’s
Coil Coatings plant in Columbus, Ohio, has adopted a
Strengthening the ties with the
local community in Columbus, Ohio.
Presentation of
King Willem I Award by
HRH Prince Claus of
the Netherlands.
program to provide both financial and personal
assistance for improving the infrastructure and quality
of life in the neighborhood.
During 1998 Akzo Nobel continued to sponsor young
talent in music and arts. In the Akzo Nobel for Young
Talent program concerts were held in Singapore,
Stockholm and Brussels. This program offers young
winners of international music competitions an
opportunity to perform in major cities throughout the
world with renowned orchestras and conductors.
The Akzo Nobel Art Foundation made further additions
to its collection of modern art. A selection of the finest
works from the collection can be viewed via the
Internet. The Foundation also provides consultancy in
architecture, design, style, and color schemes.