[...] Supplier Management For our business activities we need raw materials, packaging materials, technical products, components and services; in 2012, we purchased all these commodities from more than 50,000 suppliers in over 100 countries worldwide. Of the goods and services (including R&D services) procured in 2012, totaling approximately € 4 billion, we purchased 55% from suppliers based in EU countries and 33% from suppliers in OECD countries outside the EU. Around 12% came from suppliers in non-OECD countries outside the EU. Procurement volume 2012 in % Our basic expectations for suppliers and service partners include their compliance with fundamental [...]

For Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, waste management is a key aspect of its corporate environmental protection activities. This includes measures to prevent and reduce waste, as well as recycling when possible and disposing of waste properly. Proper waste handling with regard to occupational safety and storage on site is also of key importance. During the process development phase, we pay particular attention to making the processes efficient, to minimizing the resulting waste, and to ensuring that the materials utilized pose as little danger to people and the environment as possible. We also work to optimize existing production processes. Efficient resource use is [...]

[...] and vocational training at Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany. In the context of expanding our biotech production facilities in Corsier-sur-Vevey, Switzerland, discussions were started with NGOs and the local authorities to ensure the greatest possible transparency during the entire planning, construction and completion stages. For construction, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany committed to implementing high environmental and safety standards going beyond the statutory requirements. The annual forum was also continued after the construction project was completed. It provides an opportunity for regular discussions and reviews of the implementation of agreed measures and [...]

At Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, water is used in production primarily for cooling, as process water, or for exhaust air purification. After being used, the water may contain eutrophicating substances, heavy metals, or active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). The treatment of this wastewater, and thus the prevention of environmental pollution, is a fundamental part of our corporate environmental protection measures worldwide. The function Environment Health Safety Security Quality (EQ), which is in charge of environmental protection, bears overall responsibility for water protection. At the individual Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany sites worldwide, the local EHS [...]