Society
We engage with society at multiple levels – from local community initiatives to collaborations with universities and research institutes. Due to the ongoing effects of the pandemic, many of our regular engagements were postponed, or moved online, such as our annual Earth Day activities. We continue to engage in philanthropic and sponsorship activities to the average yearly amount of approximately €6 million, as well as via the in-kind contributions of our employees’ hours and expertise.
Showcasing science in Austria
During the Lange Nacht der Forschung (Long Night of Research), our scientists shared a program focusing on enzymes and mycotoxins. More than 200 visitors came through the doors of our Science Center in Tulln (Austria), where they were able to participate in interactive experiments demonstrating how enzymes work, solve hand-designed puzzles and see a three-dimensional display of our enzyme ZENzyme.
Providing education and mentoring opportunities in Brazil
Our partnership with the Brazilian Municipal Department of Education supported young people with professional and practical skills training, preparing them effectively for the labor market. This partnership is supported by volunteer employees in Brazil. The mentoring program, in partnership with the Recycle Institute, contributes to skills development and increases employment opportunities for students. An initiative within this program focuses specifically on supporting black and indigenous students. Our ‘Solidarity Campaigns’ provided donations of food, personal and cleaning products, and warm clothing to local communities in need.
Advocating sustainability in China
In collaboration with The National Animal Husbandry Service (NAHS) and FAO, we trained Chinese animal husbandry players in international standards and guidelines for the assessment of the environmental footprint of livestock. Our China Sustainability Forum 2022 brought together DSM experts and external stakeholder from FAO, industry associations and our value chain partners to share best practices and explore synergies for boosting the sustainable development of the industry and the region. Our DSM Bright Experience charity campaign continued for its 15th year and we continued our support of the DSM Hope School.
Engaging on health and the environment in the Netherlands
The Food Boost Challenge Limburg was organized in cooperation with local health, education and sports organizations. It engaged young people on healthy food, environmental changes and how to improve the offering and availability of new, sustainable products and services. We engaged, through Mr. de Vreeze and our President DSM Netherlands, with the NGO Milieudefensie (‘Environmental Defense’) on our emissions reduction plans to reach net-zero across value chains. We continued our participation in the environmental initiative MaasCleanUp with employees, and their families participating in the clean-up of the river Maas.
Supporting start-ups in Switzerland
We continued our partnership with MassChallenge Switzerland to support start-up companies operating primarily in the fields of personalized and precision nutrition and microbiome and gut health solutions. Our Co-CEO Geraldine Matchett presented the Diamond Winner award at the MassChallenge Switzerland Awards Ceremony in Lausanne.
Assisting local communities in the US
We continued to support the Union County College Close the Gap initiative, contributing to raising graduation rates of African American men from 5% to 25%. We likewise maintained our support for health care providers and teachers by means of donations of essential COVID-19 personal protective equipment. Our sites supported local food banks and school feeding programs. Our DSM North America Employee Relief Fund helped dozens of our colleagues to recover losses incurred due to natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods, tornadoes and wildfires.
