The Daimler Environmental Guidelines

Preamble 

Environmental protection is one of our fundamental corporate objectives.

Daimler is committed to enhance the quality of life and the environment in the communities and societies we serve. Environmental protection is one of the fundamental corporate objectives of the Daimler Group. In this context, environmental protection is an integral component of the corporate strategy, designed to ensure long-term value creation. Daimler's goal of maximum product quality includes compliance with stringent environmental standards and careful treatment of the natural foundations of life. Accordingly, our approach to environmentally acceptable product design requires careful consideration of the entire product life cycle from design, production and use to disposal or recycling. The Environmental Protection Guidelines approved by the Board of Management define the environmental policy of the Daimler Group and describe the commitment to integrated environmental protection that addresses environmental impacts at their roots, assesses in advance the ecological implications of production processes and products, and takes these findings into account in corporate decision-making. Appropriate control and monitoring procedures and measures have been implemented. Responsibility for the implementation of and adherence to environmental protection measures has been assigned to specific employees in all functional areas, from development and production to sales and service, and at all corporate staffs. The Environmental Protection Guidelines are binding for all the Group’s employees and at all corporate locations. Accordingly, the Group supports and encourages all employees to put environmental protection into practice at the workplace at his or her own initiative. Measures implemented at the various corporate locations are regularly assessed and subject to a process of continual improvement. In order to comply with its self-imposed environmental protection standards, the Daimler Group draws up its own environmental goals. The ecological programs required to meet these goals are monitored through a comprehensive auditing process aimed at measuring compliance with procedures and regulations, and when necessary, corrective actions are taken to improve performance. The underlying environmental management system is coordinated by the Chief Environmental Officer, who reports to the Board of Management on these matters at regular intervals. A verifiable environmental report, published annually, documents the Group's activities and achievements. We also will endeavor to ensure that our Environmental Protection Guidelines are accepted in joint venture partnerships. Our responsibility for the environment does not stop at our Group's doors. Accordingly, in addition to our own environmental protection activities, Daimler will promote the development of intelligent ecological solutions and encourage the international development of environmental technology. Our objective is to retain and further develop transportation products and systems which cater equally to the requirements of the individual, society and the environment.

Compliance with environmental legislation and regulations is a matter of course for Daimler. To ensure sustainable development, the Group is also committed to the active and ongoing development of environmental protection. This includes the manufacturing processes and our products. Daimler also contributes its expertise to non-corporate scientific, technical and governmental activities designed to improve the environment. The Environmental Protection Guidelines of the Daimler Group are binding for all employees and at all corporate locations. Particular responsibility rests with managerial staff: through their example, they make an active contribution to the further development of our environmental policy and of ecological awareness among the Group's employees, as well as helping to anchor environmental protection in our corporate culture.

Our approach to environmentally acceptable design covers the entire product spectrum of the Daimler Group, taking into account the product life cycle from design through disposal or recycling. Continuously improving the environmental performance of our products is one of our important goals. Daimler is committed to the ongoing pursuit of this objective, especially in its research and development activities.

Daimler sees itself as a leader in the ongoing development of environmentally responsible production technology which minimizes the burden on the environment. This includes proactive behavior to prevent or minimize the impact of accidents which may adversely affect the environment. Particular emphasis is given to the application and continuing development of technologies which save energy and water, and which are characterized by minimal emission and waste levels. This includes the development of effective environmental assessments, emission controls, reuse and recycling strategies. Daimler aims to achieve closed-loop material cycles. Our ultimate goal is waste-free production. Daimler requires its suppliers and contractual partners to comply with all applicable laws and regulations and encourages them to pursue proactive environmentally responsible practices. Contractors working on Daimler properties also must comply with the location’s own standards and requirements.

Our customers should be able to use the Daimler Group’s products in an environmentally acceptable manner. Daimler therefore provides its customers with products with a long service life in an effort to conserve natural resources. Our service outlets work to provide optimal information and expert service on environmental matters. Customers also receive comprehensive and competent advice on eco-friendly motoring.

Daimler manufactures and markets its products internationally. The Group endeavors to behave in an exemplary manner in environmental protection at all of its plants and service outlets around the world and to continually enhance environmental protection through the application of progressive environmental management. For a global player, however, taking responsibility for environmental protection seriously also means looking beyond our boundaries. At its locations around the world, Daimler supports and encourages the cooperative development of environmentally superior technology and management methods throughout industry and the public sector. In addition we cooperate with authorities to develop technically and financially sound, environmentally responsible laws and regulations.

At Daimler we believe that only a policy of openly providing information on environmental protection measures and reporting on achievements and problems in the implementation of these measures will motivate employees and create credibility in the general public. The Group employs the available personnel development, employee training and information measures to transform environmental awareness into specific employee behavior. As a corporate member of the community, Daimler actively seeks dialogue with the public on important environmental issues and works cooperatively with other groups, institutions and parties to protect and conserve the environment. Employees, customers and the general public are provided with the information they need to understand the ecological impact of the products and corporate activities of Daimler.