Linde receives prime investment status for sustainability
Munich, the 07/14/2008 - The rating agency oekom research has classified Linde AG as a particularly sustainable company. In its Corporate Responsibility Rating report, oekom research assesses the sustainability activities of around 1,000 listed companies worldwide. With an overall rating of B-, Linde has now achieved prime investment status for the first time and is therefore among the top-ranking companies in its industry.
This rating qualifies Linde's listed shares as an environmentally and socially ethical investment. The sustainability scale ranges from A+ (highest rating) to D- (lowest rating).
Attaining prime investment status confirms Linde is on the right track in systematically implementing its sustainable and socially responsible business strategy. "Investing in sustainability-driven companies is about more than environmental and social responsibility", concludes Oliver Ruedel from oekom research, Senior Analyst responsible for the chemical industry. "Opting for a sustainable investment also makes sound financial sense. After all, resources are growing increasingly scarce, and social conflicts hinder economic development".The Linde Group is a world leading gases and engineering company with more than 50,000 employees working in around 100 countries worldwide. In the 2007 financial year it achieved sales of EUR 12.3 billion. The strategy of The Linde Group is geared towards sustainable earnings-based growth and focuses on the expansion of its international business with forward-looking products and services. Linde acts responsibly towards its shareholders, business partners, employees, society and the environment - in every one of its business areas, regions and locations across the globe. Linde is committed to technologies and products that unite the goals of customer value and sustainable development.
For more information, see The Linde Group web site at www. linde.com
For further information:
Press
Uwe Wolfinger
Telephone: +49.89.35757-1320
Thomas Eisenlohr
Telephone: +49.89.35757-1330
