Airbus is committed to promoting responsible business conduct and contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In 2017, Airbus reviewed, redefined and formalized its approach to responsibility and sustainability (R&S), which is embedded in its strategy and culture. The company is seeking to improve coordination of R&S, as well as monitoring its impact through key performance indicators (KPIs). Airbus is determined to conduct its business responsibility and with integrity, from ensuring its business practices conform to applicable laws and regulations, and championing product safety improvements, to integrating the high standards of responsibility and human rights across the company and throughout its supply chain. At the same time, Airbus is committed to applying its resources and energies to seeking solutions for societal challenges. The aviation industry is already a driver of sustainable development, bringing together people, businesses and communities, and supporting trade and tourism. Airbus’ aircraft, satellite and defence solutions facilitate countries’ integration into the global economy, providing direct benefits to users. The industry supports 58.1 million jobs worldwide and it is growing: The Airbus Global Market Forecast for 2017-2036 anticipates that air traffic will increase at a rate of 3.2% per year in mature markets such as North America and Western Europe, while growth in emerging markets like China and India will be almost double that. The company is also focusing on complying with the EU Directive on disclosure of Non-Financial information and the French “Devoir de vigilance” law (see the 2017 Registration Document), as well as other regulations. Yet, Airbus often goes beyond what is required by regulations, entrenching R&S more formally throughout the businesses.
Airbus Defence and Space GmbH - Pioneering the future together
Airbus Defence and Space is one of three divisions within the Airbus Group and is Europe’s number one defence and space company. The division is also the second-largest space company worldwide and, with revenues of approximately EUR 13 billion and some 33,500 employees, is among the top ten global defence companies. Airbus Defence and Space focuses in particular on the following key business areas: space, military aircraft, guided missiles and related systems and services. Airbus Defence and Space develops and manufactures state-of-the-art defence and space products that boast unparalleled reliability. Governments and institutions use its defence and space technologies to protect natural resources, the community and individual freedom. Aircraft, satellites and services can be used to monitor climate change and arable land, as well as for border protection purposes. Airbus Defence and Space’s solutions guarantee sovereignty when it comes to foreign and defence policy. In addition, its portfolio ensures communication, mobility and the furthering of knowledge, as well as environmental protection.
Strategic partnership Airbus Defence and Space – AWARE
Airbus Defence and Space works together with AWARE to conduct research and development activities in German-Brazilian teams. It is primarily interested in increasing the number of international students and in getting international students involved at an early stage. A mentoring program with Airbus Defence and Space was developed with the help of the AWARE network; this program sees Brazilian AWARE bachelor, master and PhD students from the partner universities invited to Ingolstadt to work part-time in a specialist department at the Airbus Defence and Space site in Manching. At the same time, they would be attending Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt to write their dissertations and theses on state-of-the-art technology fields that are relevant to product development at Airbus Defence and Space.
Rainer Ackermann
Manager Global R&T Cooperations