At the corporate level, we interact with government authorities on a number of key issues specifically related to our sector and where we have significant influence.

These issues largely involve environmental subjects – such as CO2 emissions from the use of Perfluorinated Compounds (PFCs) and the use of hazardous substances in our operations – and topics relating to the strategic direction of our R&D, mainly in Europe.

We often advocate more stringent regulations and occasionally lobby to prevent a ban on chemicals for which there are no current alternatives. We lobby via industry associations and this generally involves voluntarily committing to the maximum possible reduction in the relevant chemicals or emissions until a viable alternative is found.

In 2005, there have been no significant changes to our lobbying activities. Please consult our website for more details of past or existing activities.

SO2, SO3

Regarding public policy, our sites work with local authorities according to the company's shared values and principles of business integrity. These are set out in our policies on Business Conduct and Ethics, and Conflict of Interests, and prohibit the use of any kind of bribes or illicit payments. ST also refuses financial support to political parties or groups.