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Compliance
Integrity in dealings with our business partners, shareholders and the public at large is a matter of particular concern for us. It is for this reason that both our strategic planning and our day-to-day business are always conducted on the basis of the highest ethical and legal standards. Our revised Code of Conduct, which was revised and adopted by the Executive Board in May 2017, sets out internal rules of conduct that are applicable worldwide. Our Code of Conduct for Suppliers similarly requires our suppliers and subcontractors to comply with sustainability criteria.
Ensuring confidentiality, data privacy and data security is of the utmost importance to our company. The most significant rules in this regard are set out with binding effect for all members of staff in our Code of Conduct and in our information security and data privacy policies. Furthermore, our structures ensure that customer-related data is handled in conformity with all regulations pursuant to the German Federal Data Protection Act.
With the aid of our Tax Guideline, which is applicable Group-wide, and a "Tax Compliance System", which is currently under development, as well as the associated review of all relevant task areas, processes and responsibilities, we ensure that going forward, as in the past, the tax claims arising out of our international operations are met in accordance with applicable national legal requirements.
We have defined in our Code of Conduct and Underwriting Guidelines the processes by means of which we observe sanctions that are relevant to our company. Furthermore, a compliance management system for sanctions, verification software, a Sanctions Screening Guideline and training activities for new staff facilitate the early identification and hence avoidance of any sanctions violations.
Since June 2012 our DIN ISO 14001-certified environmental management system has been in place to protect the environment. In 2015 we also transitioned to the more comprehensive environmental management system EMAS (Eco-Management and Audit Scheme). We publish the annual EMAS III environmental statement on our website; the statement for the 2016 financial year can already be viewed there.
An internal Donations Policy applicable to our Group worldwide makes it clear that through our social engagement we seek primarily to benefit the common good.