German chemical giant BASF is to donate E1m in immediate aid to victims of floods in Central Europe. In addition, the company will match the amount donated by its employees to a relief fund.

Dr Jurgen F Strube, chairman of BASF’s board of executive directors, said: “We want to provide help rapidly and in an unbureaucratic fashion.” The fund will help people directly affected by the floods.

BASF, which is one of the world’s leading chemical companies, is highly committed to corporate social responsibility and sustainable development. Its unique approach is known in German as Verbund, which can be roughly translated as “integration”.

It is considered unique as it integrates economics and sustainability to achieve low costs and, therefore, give a “decisive competitive advantage in the long term,” said Barry Stickings, European president of BASF.

Last week, BASF’s Elastocell business unit, based in Michigan, was the first company in the US to achieve the RC 14001 certification, an environmental, health and safety standard that combines elements of the American Chemistry Council Responsible Care initiative and the environmental management system established by the International Organisation of Standards (ISO).

The Elastocell business unit produces microcellular polyurethane parts used in car suspensions as a replacement for rubber. The assessment included participation from the community to help gauge the company’s effectiveness in safety, environmental protection and community outreach.

“What prompted us to pursue this certification is the automotive manufacturers’ call for their entire supplier base to be ISO 14001 certified,” said Robert Jamrog, business director, Elastocell, BASF Corporation. “Incorporating our commitment to the community in which we operate is also important to BASF.”