Daimler | Sustainability Report 2015

Dear Readers,

There is a notion that is to be found as much in the field of physics as it is in philosophy: Everything is interconnected.

This may sound very mundane, but it is certainly true. Regardless of whether we’re talking about globalization, digitalization, climate change, political crises or the wealth gap: Every single day we, the people, influence them all through our actions — both for the better and for the worse. This applies all the more so to us, as a global organization with over 284,000 employees.

We are aware of the responsibility we bear as a result of this. For that reason, we want to think things through logically and holistically, and give answers today to the questions of tomorrow. Starting with the development of ever lower-emission engines and more energy-efficient production processes. Developing alternative drive technologies and new forms of mobility, such as electromobility or autonomous driving. And demonstrating social responsibility and integrity wherever we, as a company, have a production presence or do business.

We are convinced that globalization, digitalization, and the human desire for individual mobility will continue to offer up superb opportunities in the future and remain engines of growth for the global economy — but only if our actions are not solely geared to short-term profit, but also take into account the common good — absolutely in keeping with the UN Global Compact and the Sustainable Development Goals. We do not just want to react to what crops up before us on the road ahead — we want to proceed with foresight and a sense of responsibility.

And your opinions and expectations are very important to us in this respect (see the stakeholder survey and materiality analysis in this report). We would therefore very much welcome your continuing input — both critical and constructive — to this process: After all our vision is better if we look ahead together. 

Best regards,

Dr. Dieter Zetsche
Renata Jungo Brüngger
Prof. Dr. Thomas Weber

Read the complete Daimler | Sustainability Report 2015