VW named most sustainable automaker by Dow Jones Sustainability Index

The Volskwagen Group, who recently pledged to become a leader in electrified vehicles, has been the most sustainable automaker in this year’s review of the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices (DJSI). The recognition is based on a review of corporate economic, environmental, and social sustainability performance of a total of 31 automotive companies based on criteria such as environmental and climate protection strategy, innovation management and corporate social responsibility.

Dow Jones Sustainability Index is the most significant index for stock investors looking to invest in sustainable companies. This is also known as socially responsible investing.

The experts from RobecoSAM awarded Volkswagen 89 out of a possible 100 points citing achievements such as “the great efforts to improve fleet fuel consumption” and the binding commitment to sustainability targets in Strategy 2018. The company received full marks for areas such as VW's environmental management system, risk management and positive community engagement.

The company was also recognized for significant improvements in the view of the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP). According to the CDP Global 500 Climate Change Report 2013 which has just been published, the company is now listed in both the CDP Global 500 Climate Performance Leadership Index and the CDP Global 500 Climate Disclosure Leadership Index for the first time.

The Chairman of Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft, Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn, commented: “This distinction is a real milestone on our path towards becoming the leader in green mobility. We will devote all our energy to permanently establishing the Volkswagen Group as the world’s most sustainable automaker.”

The Chairman of the General Works Council of Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft, Bernd Osterloh, said: “This honor testifies to our swift progress in systematically orienting the entire Group to maximum energy and resource efficiency. This success is undoubtedly attributable to the whole team. We will continue to focus on sustainable management – throughout the entire value chain.”