Sustainable Development influences BASFs business operations on three levels: it minimizes risk, boosts business and helps generate new business. Sustainable Development is a basic requirement for long-term success for us and for our customers. As part of the education process for the employees and other stakeholders of BASF, we define the concept of Sustainable Development in North America as follows: BASF, The Chemical Company, embraces Sustainable Development as a core strategic guideline because it balances economic growth, environmental protection and social responsibility.