Annual report claims Shell committed to sustainable development

Speaking in London at the launch of the second annual Shell Report People, planet & profits; an act of commitment, chairman of the committee of managing directors Mark Moody-Stewart said: “Shell companies remain totally committed to a business strategy that generates profits while contributing to the well being of the planet and its people. We see no alternative,” he said.

The second report contains information on how Royal Dutch/Shell is performing world-wide with respect to its ‘Business Principles’ and details on how sustainable development will increasingly inform the way Shell companies do business through a new Sustainable Development Management Framework (SDMF).

The Report shows that Royal Dutch/Shell has already reduced its greenhouse gas emissions by 5% on 1990 levels and is on target to reduce them by a further 5% by 2002.

Royal Dutch/Shell views on renewable energy are outlined along with additions to its business portfolio of renewable energy companies.

The Report also contains details on:

  the existence of a Sustainable Development Council to begin a structured implementation of the SDMF by encouraging and monitoring its progressive application world-wide.

  Shell’s Global Health, Safety & Environment (HSE) standards on which all Shell companies world-wide are expected to improve. These, the report says, will take several years to implement fully.

  a new social investment programme focussed on sustainable energy, youth development and enterprise;

  a practical guide to human rights for Shell staff to help develop a better understanding of human rights and business responsibilities;