Prevention and mitigation measures

Where we become aware of human rights risks, we analyze these risks and take appropriate measures to prevent and mitigate them.

In order to pursue sustainability in procurement, we believe it is essential that our suppliers follow our commitment. We expect our suppliers to adhere to internationally recognized ESG standards as stated in our Supplier Code of Conduct, which guides our interaction with suppliers on human rights.

Whenever we become aware of current human rights violations from our direct suppliers, we urge and expect them to end these immediately and, if required, support them in doing this. We are committed to supporting our suppliers in tackling related challenges together and improving; at the same time, as a last resort, we may choose to explore business alternatives and reserve the right to terminate supplier relationships for continued non-compliance with our standards. 

Deeper in our value chains, we primarily work with others – partners, civil society or cross-industry initiatives – to tackle systemic challenges together. We are convinced that we can address human rights challenges more effectively if we work together.

We set store by certified sustainable supply chains and fair working conditions in the procurement of raw materials such as palm oil, palm kernel oil and castor oil. We have chosen to participate in several voluntary alliances, a selection of which can be found here. A broader list of sustainability networks in which BASF is involved is provided here.

We have established several preventive measures in our own operations. A selection is provided below.

We embed our commitment to respecting human rights in our daily operations. Our general principles of behavior are outlined in our Code of Conduct. Our BASF International Labor and Social Standard (ILSS) set out the basic principles and rights at work, in conditions of freedom, equity, security and dignity.

Our Code of Conduct and International Labor and Social Standards set out the standards by which everyone at BASF worldwide is expected to abide, including on human rights.

Our Code of Conduct sets out the measures everyone should take to implement BASF’s corporate values, which also form the basis of our leadership culture. Our values – creative, open, responsible, and entrepreneurial – help us to put our commitments into action, remind us of what BASF stands for, and help us navigate areas and situations where responsible conduct and ethical decision-making are critically important.

One key element in preventing risks and violations is creating awareness internally. We regularly offer mandatory internal compliance trainings and refresher courses, as well as human rights and ILSS trainings for specific target groups.

We encourage and promote open dialog with all our stakeholders, in order to develop a mutual understanding of relevant issues and enable meaningful consultation.

To ensure continuous improvement in the areas of environmental protection, health and safety, we have integrated the Responsible Care principles and Global Safety Initiative. Aspects of human rights are also a component of the global qualification requirements for our security personnel and are incorporated into agreements with contractors.

If a concern or a violation ever arises despite this, we immediately take measures to stop the violation and follow up adequately.

Our products must be safe for humans and the environment.

Through our products – and through science and innovation – we enable our customers to provide what society needs, both now and in the future. Safe use of our products and responsible use of new technologies come first for us in this.

Our product stewardship systems and processes identify potential risks in the handling, usage and disposal of our products, and our teams advise accordingly to minimize potential negative impacts.