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  • Overall approach
    8/10
    • Overarching commitment on deforestation
      4/4
      Overall commitment
      Conversion-free/zero-gross conversion/zero-net conversion commitment or a zero deforestation/deforestation-free commitment that explicitly includes all other natural ecosystems
      4/4
      Do they have a commitment for other non-Forest 500 commodities, if so which?: NA
      "Commitment to eliminate conversion of natural ecosystems Commitment to eliminate deforestation Commitment to no deforestation, to no planting on peatlands and to no exploitation (NDPE)"[...]"In 2020 BASF released its group wide BASF Group’s Position on Forest Protection. Company-specific explanation of why the selected content is included in the policy: Forests are essential to life on Earth. Forests hold the majority of the world's terrestrial biodiversity, regulate the water cycle, prevent soil erosion, provide clean air and are a living environment for endangered animals and indigenous communities."
      Open source document
    • Signatory to an initiative tackling deforestation
      1/1
      Signatory
      Yes
      1/1
      "BASF actively supports the UN Global Compact, a voluntary initiative based on company commitments to implement universal sustainability principles and to advance UN goals such as the Sustainable Development Goals"
      Open source document
    • Awareness of the value of forests
      1/1
      Awareness
      Yes
      1/1
      "Forests are essential to life on earth. Forests do not only hold the majority of the world’s terrestrial biodiversity but provide crucial ecosystem services as they regulate water cycles, provide clean air and protect the soil from erosion. Through human activity, however, forests are disappearing at alarming rates. [...] If deforestation continues at current rates, it will lead to an irreplaceable loss of biodiversity, enhance climate change and will have a negative impact on the livelihood and well-being of people."
      Open source document
    • Deforestation as a business risk
      1/1
      Business risk
      Yes
      1/1
      What proportion of revenue that comes from relevant industries is exposed to each forest risk commodity?: NA

      What poportion of a company’s annual revenue depends on each forest risk commodity?: Palm Oil 1-5%
      "A failure to meet the timelines of the commitment and subsequently to continue the sourcing of 100% RSPO certified Palm Kernel Oil beyond 2020 and of Palm Kernel Oil Derivatives beyond 2025 will be a public topic and will damage the BASF brand with potential decrease in shareholder value and loss of social license to operate in palm (potential NGO activism)."
      Open source document
    • High-level management of deforestion
      1/1
      High-level management
      Yes
      1/1
      Which commodities does it apply to?: Palm oil

      How often does the committee or board meet to assess company's progress on addressing deforestation-related issues?: Unspecified
      "A member of the Board of Executive Directors chairs BASF’s Corporate Sustainability Board (CSB) the central steering committee for sustainable development, including forest related topics. It is composed of the heads of selected business, corporate and functional units as well as of regions. The CSB monitors the implementation of the sustainability strategy and cross-divisional initiatives, defines sustainability goals and approves corporate position papers on sustainability topics – including forest related topics. Example: In 2020 the board director has approved a group-wide position paper on forest protection that encompasses our renewable raw material supply chains including the 3rd party supply chain of our direct supply base, our own operations, as well as our products. It comprises primary forests and areas of High Conservation Value (HCV), as well as High Carbon Stock (HCS) forest areas and peatlands. The approved position was published in June 2020."
      Open source document
    • Executive compensation linked to deforestation
      Executive compensation
      Yes, for all commodities
      0/0
      Does it disclose the percentage of pay at risk?: No
      "The Board of Executive Directors’ target agreement contains operational and strategic objectives. The operational targets (primarily earnings, financial, investment and operational excellence targets) cover the company’s short-term financial performance. The strategic targets relate to BASF’s medium and long-term development on the basis of the corporate strategy. They comprise targets for growth, portfolio optimization, investment and R&D strategy, digitalization, sustainability and the BASF corporate values. The achievement of operational and strategic targets is evaluated separately. The amount of the performance bonus thus takes into account the Board of Executive Directors’ performance for both the short-term and long-term success of the company."
      Open source document
    • Target to reduce emissions from land-use change
      0/1
    • Reporting on emissions from land-use change
      0/1
    • Disclosure of conservation activity
    • Disclosure of reforestation activity
      Reforestation disclosure
      Yes
      0/0
      How many hectares of reforestation or restoration are being or have been conducted or facilitated by the company?: 730 ha
      "In 1984, BASF established the Mata Viva® initiative in Brazil to protect water quality, conserve soil, and create areas to preserve native vegetation and wildlife. The team’s first major achievement was to restore 128 hectares of forest along the Paraiba do Sul River, near the company’s South American chemical complex at Guaratinguetá. Over the years, the initiative restored more than 730 hectares and planted more than 1200000 seedlings"
      Open source document
    • Target to reduce emissions in scope 1/2
      Reduce emissions
      Yes
      0/0
      What is the target date for the company to achieve their climate target?: 2050

      Type of climate target: Net-zero emissions

      Is this target aligned with/verified by SBTi?: Yes
      "BASF presents roadmap to climate neutrality Target of net zero CO2 emissions globally by 20501 1 Based on Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions of the BASF Group; other greenhouse gases are converted into CO2 equivalents according to the Greenhouse Gas Protocol"
      Open source document
  • Commodity score
    31/90
    • Palm oil
      51/90
      • Commitment Strength
        17/17
        • Commitment to protect priority forests
          9/9.5
          • Commitment details
            Zero-gross conversion
            6/6
            Commitment to protect priority forests
            Zero-gross conversion
            6/6
            When was this commitment set?: 2020

            Does the company have a commitment to the protection of other specific named ecosystems?: HCS; Peat

            Which certification schemes are used?: RSPO
            "The palm oil commitment criteria includes "No conversion of natural ecosystems", "zero gross deforestation/ no deforestation", "No new development in peat regardless of depth", "No conversion of High Carbon Stock forests"[...]"BASF has committed to source 100% RSPO certified palm and palm kernel oil by 2020 and to source 100% RSPO certified palm and palm kernel oil derivatives (Fatty Alcohols, Fatty Acids, Methylesters) by 2025"[...]"The following principles shape our ambition: We support the conservation of HCS forest, HCV areas, peatlands and equivalent ecological and culturally important landscapes connected to the origins of our supply chains. No development on HCS forests or HCV areas. Any development activity must utilize international best practice guidance from HCS Approach, from High Conservation Value Resource Network (HCVRN) and from the principles and criteria of the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO).No development on peatland regardless of depth and strict application of best management practices for existing developments on peat as defined equivalent to the RSPO and no use of fire as a preparation of any area development within our supply chains."
            Open source document
            Open source document
          • Commitment applies to all regions, suppliers and operation
            Yes
            2/2
            Commitment applies to all regions, suppliers and operation
            Yes
            2/2
            "The palm oil commitment criteria includes "No conversion of natural ecosystems", "zero gross deforestation/ no deforestation", "No new development in peat regardless of depth", "No conversion of High Carbon Stock forests"[...]"BASF has committed to source 100% RSPO certified palm and palm kernel oil by 2020 and to source 100% RSPO certified palm and palm kernel oil derivatives (Fatty Alcohols, Fatty Acids, Methylesters) by 2025"[...]"The following principles shape our ambition: We support the conservation of HCS forest, HCV areas, peatlands and equivalent ecological and culturally important landscapes connected to the origins of our supply chains. No development on HCS forests or HCV areas. Any development activity must utilize international best practice guidance from HCS Approach, from High Conservation Value Resource Network (HCVRN) and from the principles and criteria of the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO).No development on peatland regardless of depth and strict application of best management practices for existing developments on peat as defined equivalent to the RSPO and no use of fire as a preparation of any area development within our supply chains."
            Open source document
            Open source document
          • Target date
            2025
            0.8/1
            Target date
            2025
            0.8/1
            What actions or steps are identified for time-bound implementation?: NA
            "BASF has publicly committed to source 100% RSPO certified palm and palm kernel oil by 2020 and to source 100% RSPO certified palm and palm kernel oil derivatives (Fatty Alcohols, Fatty Acids, Methylesters) by 2025."
            Open source document
          • Interim target date
            Yes
            0.5/0.5
            Interim target date
            Yes
            0.5/0.5
            What date is given for the interim milestone?: 2020
            "BASF has publicly committed to source 100% RSPO certified palm and palm kernel oil by 2020 and to source 100% RSPO certified palm and palm kernel oil derivatives (Fatty Alcohols, Fatty Acids, Methylesters) by 2025."
            Open source document
        • Commitment to a traceable supply chain
          7/7.5
          • Commitment details
            Traces to Point of production
            4/4
            Commitment to a traceable supply chain
            Traces to Point of production
            4/4
            When was this commitment set?: 2015
            "With the BASF Palm Sourcing Policy we have published a purchasing guideline for palm oil products which includes the protection of forest and peatland. We drive the traceability of our oils to the mill level and support smallholder farmers. The latest results of our efforts you can find here, updated twice a year." [...] "The transparency of your palm supply chain is matching the requirements of BASF (currently twice per year: traceability needs to be expressed per unit operation supplying to BASF and needs to comprise refineries, palm kernel crushers, palm oil mills and palm plantations connected (directly and indirectly) to your unit operations supplying to BASF together with GPS codes, names and group companies for all levels, Unified Mill list IDs, Unified Crusher IDs, Unified Refinery IDs and Unified plantation IDs)"
            Open source document
            Open source document
          • Commitment applies to all regions, suppliers and operation
            Yes
            2/2
            Commitment applies to all regions, suppliers and operation
            Yes
            2/2
            "With the BASF Palm Sourcing Policy we have published a purchasing guideline for palm oil products which includes the protection of forest and peatland. We drive the traceability of our oils to the mill level and support smallholder farmers. The latest results of our efforts you can find here, updated twice a year." [...] "The transparency of your palm supply chain is matching the requirements of BASF (currently twice per year: traceability needs to be expressed per unit operation supplying to BASF and needs to comprise refineries, palm kernel crushers, palm oil mills and palm plantations connected (directly and indirectly) to your unit operations supplying to BASF together with GPS codes, names and group companies for all levels, Unified Mill list IDs, Unified Crusher IDs, Unified Refinery IDs and Unified plantation IDs)"
            Open source document
            Open source document
          • Target date
            2025
            0.8/1
            Target date
            2025
            0.8/1
            What actions or steps are identified for time-bound implementation?: "We are committed to achieve traceable supply chains and establish appropriate monitoring of these principles in our supply chains to drive risk assessment and corrective actions."
            "By 2020 –we commit ourselves to source palm oil and palm kernel oil, that is traceable. [...] By 2025 –we commit ourselves to source significant intermediates based on palm oil and palm kernel oil, that are traceable. This commitment include fractions as well as primary oleochemical derivatives plus vegetable oil esters."
            Open source document
          • Interim target date
            Yes
            0.5/0.5
            Interim target date
            Yes
            0.5/0.5
            What date is given for the interim milestone?: 2020
            "By 2020 –we commit ourselves to source palm oil and palm kernel oil, that is traceable"
            Open source document
      • Associated Human Rights Abuses
        8/17
        • Labour rights in the supply chain
          Yes
          3/3
          Labour rights in the supply chain
          Yes
          3/3
          Other workers' rights commitments: Guaranteed safe and healthy workspaces; Free from abusive practices/undue disciplinary procedures

          Details of commitment: ILO; UNGP; UN Declaration for HR; Discrimination; Forced labour; Child labour; Freedom of association

          How far back in the supply chain does this commitment apply?: Tier 1
          "We particularly expect you as our supplier to support, embrace and enact the following ESG standards, which are based on the ten principles of the United Nations Global Compact initiative, the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, the International Labour Organization, Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work, and the global chemical industry’s Responsible Care® program: You support the protection of internationally proclaimed human rights, fight forced labor (including modern slavery and human trafficking) and child labor • You uphold the freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining in accordance with applicable laws. You comply with minimum wages and working hours in accordance with local laws, and ensure compensation of a living wage according to local living conditions. • You treat your employees with respect and provide a workplace free of harassment or abuse of any kind, harsh and inhumane treatment, unlawful practices or discrimination • You comply with all applicable environmental, health and safety regulations."
          Open source document
        • Inclusion of small-scale farmers
          Yes
          2/2
          Inclusion of small-scale farmers
          Yes
          2/2
          How many smallholders do they support, and what percentage does this represent in terms of their sourcing from smallholders?: 180,000+

          What is the nature of that support?: Certification; Education and training, Economic
          "Sustainability certification, such as the RSPO, can be costly and difficult to achieve for smallholders. However, it is also high in demand and can provide premiums. This is why advocating smallholder farmers is of high importance for BASF, to improve their livelihood and enhance the living conditions of the people in the farming areas by improving agricultural practices, increasing yields and helping to preserve forests. Which tool was used in the assessment: Since 2016, BASF has been collaborating with Henkel and the Solidaridad civil society organization to improve the livelihoods of palm oil smallholders in West Kalimantan, Indonesia. The project was implemented by Solidaridad in cooperation with Credit Union Keling Kumang (CUKK), a farming cooperative that unites more than 180,000 smallholder farmers in the region. BASF, The Estée Lauder Companies and the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) are partnering with Solidaridad to promote sustainable palm oil and palm derivatives production in the district of Waykanan, Lampung, Indonesia. The project partners are collaborating with the Indonesian government to foster a sustainable palm oil production supply chain in Lampung free from deforestation and competitive in the global market, while increasing the social and economic benefits for farmers."
          Open source document
        • Gender equality in the supply chain
          No commitment
          0/2
        • Commitment to remediation
          Yes
          1/1
          Commitment to remediation
          Yes
          0.5/1
          What does the commitment cover?: Social harm; Environmental harm
          "BASF is committed to the following actions: − Systematically evaluate sustainability topics (e.g. potential impact on forests, biodiversity criteria) as an integral part of investment decisions on the construction of new sites and the expansion of existing sites. These may include compensation measures for the loss of forests, e.g. investments in local reforestation programs. The protection of forests from negative impacts of our operations, if applicable, is always an effort in cooperation with local partners and competent authorities."[...]"We will identify measures to provide remediation in cases where BASF has directly caused or contributed to any non-compliance of FPIC in its own operations and we do expect this from our suppliers."
          Open source document
        • Commitment to ensure Free, Prior and Informed Consent
          Yes, the company commits to test for FPIC prior to acquiring new interests, developments, or expansions
          2/3
          Commitment to ensure Free, Prior and Informed Consent
          Yes, the company commits to test for FPIC prior to acquiring new interests, developments, or expansions
          2/3
          How far back in the supply chain does this commitment apply?: Tier 2
          "We do expect any land use change development activity to respect the rights of indigenous and local communities to give or withhold their Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) where they hold legal, communal or customary rights in accordance with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People (UNDRIP) and the HCS Approach social requirements."
          Open source document
        • Commitment to resolve land conflicts
          No
          0/3
        • Zero-tolerance approach to violence and threats
          No
          0/3
      • Implementation and Reporting
        27/56
        • Reporting volumes against commitments
          50-79%
          2/3
          Reporting volumes against commitments
          50-79%
          1.5/3
          Does the company report on the degree of compliance/progress with commitments, disaggregated by relevant factors such as origin or supply chain stage?: No

          What is the certified volume?: NA

          What is the volume with unknown deforestation/conversion risk? Disaggregated by product type or use as relevant.: 5.3%

          What is the proportion of total commodity volume sourced with known deforestation/conversion risk?: 94,7%

          What percentage of the commodity purchased or sourced by the company can be traced to the level of a sourcing area, but not to production unit, in areas with deforestation/conversion risk?: 5.3%

          What is the non-certified/non-compliant volume?: 5.3%

          What percentage of the commodity purchased or sourced by the company can be traced to the farm level on production units that are not DCF?: na

          What is the compliant volume?: 94,7%
          "Based on our voluntary commitment to sustainably source palm oil products, we purchased 242,946 metric tons of certified palm kernel oil in 2021. This again represents 100% of our total volume." (of Palm Kernel Oil). In their RSPO 2020 ACOP report, they report 52.94% of their overall palm oil is RSPO Certified."
          Open source document
          Open source document
        • Reporting is independently verified
          Yes, using an internal verification system
          2/2
          Reporting is independently verified
          Yes, using an internal verification system
          2/2
          Which processes or groups does the company use for third party verification?: RSPO

          Which tools, approaches, third-party verification, including certification, schemes are used?: RSPO

          What methods are used for verification?: RSPO

          For what percent of the company's supply volume is third-party verification of performance relative to commitments conducted?: NA

          Is the performance of compliance of some suppliers, sources, or origins not verified, and if so why not?: NA

          What percent of the company's supply volume is verified using company verification systems?: NA
          "BASF has publicly committed to source 100% RSPO certified palm and palm kernel oil by 2020 and to source 100% RSPO certified palm and palm kernel oil derivatives (Fatty Alcohols, Fatty Acids, Methylesters) by 2025."
          Open source document
        • Suppliers aligned with deforestation commitments across supply chain
          No
          0/3
        • Deforestation cut off date
          Yes, for all sourcing regions/operations
          2/2
          Deforestation cut off date
          Yes, for all sourcing regions/operations
          2/2
          What cut-off date is specified?: 2005
          In their 2021 CDP deforestation cut-off date of 2005
          Open source document
        • Collaborative actions
          Yes
          2/2
          Collaborative actions
          Yes
          2/2
          What initiatives does the company participate in?: Henkel and the Solidaridad ;

          What is the nature of that participation?: Attending & contributing to meetings; Providing support/ advice/ experience/ expertise
          "Since 2016, BASF has been collaborating with Henkel and the Solidaridad civil society organization to improve the livelihoods of palm oil smallholders in West Kalimantan, Indonesia. The project was implemented by Solidaridad in cooperation with Credit Union Keling Kumang (CUKK), a farming cooperative that unites more than 180,000 smallholder farmers in the region. BASF, The Estée Lauder Companies and the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) are partnering with Solidaridad to promote sustainable palm oil and palm derivatives production in the district of Waykanan, Lampung, Indonesia. The project partners are collaborating with the Indonesian government to foster a sustainable palm oil production supply chain in Lampung free from deforestation and competitive in the global market, while increasing the social and economic benefits for farmers."
          Open source document
        • Jurisdictional approach focused on sustainable land use
          No
          0/2
        • Risk assessments for forest risk
          Yes
          2/2
          Risk assessments for forest risk
          Yes
          2/2
          For what percentage of material produced or sourced by the company has forest risk been assessed?: 100%

          How frequently are assessments conducted?: More than once a year
          "Our suppliers are evaluated based on risk due to the size and scale of our supplier portfolio. We define relevant suppliers as those showing an elevated sustainability risk potential as identified by our risk matrices and our purchasers’ assessments. Tools and methods used: We also use the Together for Sustainability (TfS) evaluation program, which is based on third-party online assessments and on-site audits and is simplified for both suppliers and TfS member companies by a globally uniform questionnaire. In addition, the service provider RepRisk provides us with ad-hoc information if any suppliers have been publicly observed in connection with negative sustainability incidents, including forest-related aspects. Explanation why tools were chosen and their effectiveness: We also use tools and services like publicly available SPOTT data, Global Forest Watch Pro (GFW Pro) online management, external consultants and HCS Approach to create a holistic picture in order to assess forest-related risks on many different levels. Through our satellite monitoring approach (Palmoil.io platform by MapHubs) and our comprehensive traceability information on palm, BASF is observing its palm supply chain for recent potential deforestation cases and bring these cases up for resolution with our direct supplier which connects BASF accordingly to the area of potential deforestation"
          Open source document
        • Operations assessed to comply with law
          Yes
          2/2
          Operations assessed to comply with law
          Yes
          2/2
          "We expect our suppliers to fully comply with applicable laws and to adhere to internationally recognized environmental, social and corporate governance standards (ESG standards). We also expect our suppliers to use their best efforts to implement these standards with their suppliers and subcontractors...BASF reserves the right to conduct audits or assessments to ensure your compliance and will take appropriate steps regarding our relationship with you if there is a reason for concern. BASF reserves the right to discontinue any relationship for non-adherence to international principles, failure to correct violations, or displaying patterns of non-compliance with these standards."
          Open source document
        • Accessible grievance mechanism
          Yes, publicly accessible grievance mechanism
          2/4
          Accessible grievance mechanism
          Yes, publicly accessible grievance mechanism
          2/4
          Which issues does the grievance mechanism cover?: Social; Environmental

          What is the nature of the grievance mechanism used by the company?: Own mechanism
          "We offer worldwide operational-level grievance and/or complaint mechanisms. We take on critical questions and listen to all grievances. We ensure that all concerns that are brought forward to us are addressed. We strive for appropriate remediation by the responsible party." [...] "We offer communication channels for all affected individuals, for own employees, business partners and their employees, and the general public affected by our operations. Our grievance hotline via e-mail or phone is another element of our global our grievance and complaints mechanism."; "The BASF Palm Grievance Procedure is specifically related to violations and/or non-compliances against BASF’s palm commitment, BASF’s responsible palm sourcing policy, Sustainability Policy, Supplier Code of Conduct and BASF Group Position on Human rights in BASF’s palm supply chain."
          Open source document
          Open source document
        • Report volumes of commodity
          Reporting total volume
          3/3
          Report volumes of commodity
          Reporting total volume
          3/3
          Reporting certified/compliant volume: 233504 Metric Tonnes

          Reporting non-certified/non-compliant volume: 207604 Metric Tonnes

          What product types/sectors is this in?: Pharmaceuticals

          Total volume: 441108 Metric Tonnes

          What is the non-DCF commodity volume sourced from known production areas, and proportion of total supply chain volume this represents?: NA
          Reported in their 2020 RSPO ACOP Report a total volume of palm oil of 441108 Metric Tonnes
          Open source document
        • Upstream: Monitor compliance with human rights
          No
          0/5
        • Compliance of company-owned operations
          No
          0/5
        • Downstream: Publishing supplier lists
          Yes, report direct suppliers
          2/4
          Downstream: Publishing supplier lists
          Yes, report direct suppliers
          2/4
          Does the company disclose location of suppliers' production areas or primary processing sites?: No

          For what percent of suppliers' production areas are point locations disclosed?: 0%

          For what percent are boundaries disclosed?: 0%

          From what country(ies) does the company source material?: Indonesia ; Malaysia ; Thailand ; Papua New Guinea ; Colombia ; Honduras ; Cambodia ; Solomon Islands ; Costa Rica ; Brazil

          For what percent is no location data disclosed?: 100%

          What is the volume of each forest risk commodity that the company sourced in the previous year from each national or subnational location?: NA

          What type of location data (boundary, point, etc.) is provided for smallholder farms?: NA

          From what sub-national jurisdiction(s) does the company source material?: Sabah ; Riau ; North Sumatra ; Central Kalimantan ; Johor ; Jambi ; South Kalimantan ; West Kalimantan ; Pahang ; Aceh ; Chumphon ; East Kalimantan ; Perak ; Bangka Belitung ; Chonburi ; Lampung ; Surat Thani ; Negeri Sembelin ; West New Britain ; Bengkulu ; Samut Sakhon ; Samut Songkhram ; Ratchaburi ; Prachuap Khiri Khan ; Terengganu ; Cesar ; West Sulawesi ; Kelantan ; Magdalena ; Melaka ; Kedah ; Colon ; Meta ; Milne Bay ; New Ireland ; Guadalcanal ; Koh Kong ; Casanare ; Cundinamarca ; Krong Preah Sihanouk ; Krabi ; Atlantida ; Puntarenas ; Para

          For what percent of smallholder suppliers is location disclosed?: NA
          BASF provide a palm oil supplier list and a list of locations and subnational jurisdictions from which they source palm oil.
          Open source document
        • Downstream: Monitor compliance in supply chain
          Yes, for its suppliers
          2/4
          Downstream: Monitor compliance in supply chain
          Yes, for its suppliers
          2/4
          For what percentage of suppliers does the company use/rely on external mechanisms to monitor compliance?: NA

          How frequently is compliance assessed?: NA

          How is compliance monitored?: Internal monitoring and verification systems

          What percentage of the company's supply chain volume does that represent?: NA

          For what percent of suppliers does the company directly monitor compliance of production or processing operations?: NA

          For what percentage of the commodity sourced by the company is deforestation/conversion monitored at the farm level on production units known to be in the company's supply chain?: NA
          "Yes, we have a system in place for our no conversion and/or deforestation commitments [...] The Together for Sustainability program, risk matrices help us identify suppliers with a high sustainability risk potential based on country and product risks. Using this risk analysis and other evaluations, we audit raw material supplier sites on sustainability standards and initiate sustainability assessments through an external provider. Participating suppliers will now only have to complete one globally standardized form instead of multiple questionnaires. If we discover a need for improvement, we support our suppliers in the development of measures that fulfill our standards. We then check again according to a defined timeframe based on the sustainability risk measured. Should there be no improvement, we terminate the business relationship. BASF will increase its efforts by renewing our palm traceability twice a year and by focusing on additional means to further investigate our palm supply (chain e.g. satellite monitoring and systematic reporting on NDPE implementation) Monitoring and verification approach Geospatial monitoring tool"
          Open source document
        • Downstream: Reporting hectares of deforestation
          No
          0/4
        • Downstream: Engagement with non-compliant suppliers
          Engage with suppliers with a time-bound threat of exclusion
          2/2
          Downstream: Engagement with non-compliant suppliers
          Engage with suppliers with a time-bound threat of exclusion
          2/2
          Does the company commit to engage with rightsholders, Indigenous peoples and local communities when developing the implementation plan?: No

          Does the company engage non-compliant indirect suppliers in order to address and remedy non-compliance?: No

          Does the company work with the non-compliant supplier to develop an implementation plan to remedy associated harms or non-compliance?: Yes

          What criteria does the policy specify for blacklisting or exclusion?: Non-compliance

          What type of support does the company offer to its suppliers to help them achieve compliance with commitments?: Development of measures
          "The Together for Sustainability program, risk matrices help us identify suppliers with a high sustainability risk potential based on country and product risks. Using this risk analysis and other evaluations, we audit raw material supplier sites on sustainability standards and initiate sustainability assessments through an external provider. Participating suppliers will now only have to complete one globally standardized form instead of multiple questionnaires. If we discover a need for improvement, we support our suppliers in the development of measures that fulfill our standards. We then check again according to a defined timeframe based on the sustainability risk measured. Should there be no improvement, we terminate the business relationship. BASF will increase its efforts by renewing our palm traceability twice a year and by focusing on additional means to further investigate our palm supply (chain e.g. satellite monitoring and systematic reporting on NDPE implementation)"
          Open source document
        • Downstream: Disclosure of non-compliant suppliers
          Yes, excluded
          1/2
          Downstream: Disclosure of non-compliant suppliers
          Yes, excluded
          1/2
          Does the company have a list of blacklisted or otherwise excluded suppliers or producers?: No

          How many noncompliant producers or suppliers are engaged through improvement plans or other processes, and what percentage of the company's supply chain volume does that represent?: NA
          "BASF reserves the right to discontinue any business relationship for non-adherence to international principles, failure to correct violations, or for displaying patterns of non-compliance with these standards. This did not occur in any case in 2019."
          Open source document
    • Pulp & Paper *
      10/90
      • Commitment Strength
        0/17
        • Commitment to protect priority forests
          0/9.5
          • Commitment details
            No commitment
            0/6
          • Commitment applies to all regions, suppliers and operation
            No
            0/2
          • Target date
            Post 2050 or no target date
            0/1
          • Interim target date
            No
            0/0.5
        • Commitment to a traceable supply chain
          0/7.5
          • Commitment details
            No traceability commitment
            0/4
          • Commitment applies to all regions, suppliers and operation
            No
            0/2
          • Target date
            Post 2050 or no target date
            0/1
          • Interim target date
            No
            0/0.5
      • Associated Human Rights Abuses
        6/17
        • Labour rights in the supply chain
          Yes
          3/3
          Labour rights in the supply chain
          Yes
          3/3
          Other workers' rights commitments: Guaranteed safe and healthy workspaces; Free from abusive practices/undue disciplinary procedures

          Details of commitment: ILO; UNGP; UN Declaration for HR; Discrimination; Forced labour; Child labour; Freedom of association

          How far back in the supply chain does this commitment apply?: Suppliers
          "We particularly expect you as our supplier to support, embrace and enact the following ESG standards, which are based on the ten principles of the United Nations Global Compact initiative, the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, the International Labour Organization, Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work, and the global chemical industry’s Responsible Care® program: You support the protection of internationally proclaimed human rights, fight forced labor (including modern slavery and human trafficking) and child labor • You uphold the freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining in accordance with applicable laws. You comply with minimum wages and working hours in accordance with local laws, and ensure compensation of a living wage according to local living conditions. • You treat your employees with respect and provide a workplace free of harassment or abuse of any kind, harsh and inhumane treatment, unlawful practices or discrimination • You comply with all applicable environmental, health and safety regulations."
          Open source document
        • Inclusion of small-scale farmers
          No
          0/2
        • Gender equality in the supply chain
          No commitment
          0/2
        • Commitment to remediation
          Yes
          1/1
          Commitment to remediation
          Yes
          0.5/1
          What does the commitment cover?: Social harm; Environmental harm
          "BASF is committed to the following actions: − Systematically evaluate sustainability topics (e.g. potential impact on forests, biodiversity criteria) as an integral part of investment decisions on the construction of new sites and the expansion of existing sites. These may include compensation measures for the loss of forests, e.g. investments in local reforestation programs. The protection of forests from negative impacts of our operations, if applicable, is always an effort in cooperation with local partners and competent authorities."[...]"We will identify measures to provide remediation in cases where BASF has directly caused or contributed to any non-compliance of FPIC in its own operations and we do expect this from our suppliers."
          Open source document
        • Commitment to ensure Free, Prior and Informed Consent
          Yes, the company commits to test for FPIC prior to acquiring new interests, developments, or expansions
          2/3
          Commitment to ensure Free, Prior and Informed Consent
          Yes, the company commits to test for FPIC prior to acquiring new interests, developments, or expansions
          2/3
          How far back in the supply chain does this commitment apply?: Tier 2
          "We do expect any land use change development activity to respect the rights of indigenous and local communities to give or withhold their Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) where they hold legal, communal or customary rights in accordance with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People (UNDRIP) and the HCS Approach social requirements."
          Open source document
        • Commitment to resolve land conflicts
          No
          0/3
        • Zero-tolerance approach to violence and threats
          No
          0/3
      • Implementation and Reporting
        4/56
        • Reporting volumes against commitments
          No disclosure
          0/3
        • Reporting is independently verified
          No
          0/2
        • Suppliers aligned with deforestation commitments across supply chain
          No
          0/3
        • Deforestation cut off date
          No
          0/2
        • Collaborative actions
          No
          0/2
        • Jurisdictional approach focused on sustainable land use
          No
          0/2
        • Risk assessments for forest risk
          No
          0/2
        • Operations assessed to comply with law
          Yes
          2/2
          Operations assessed to comply with law
          Yes
          2/2
          "We expect our suppliers to fully comply with applicable laws and to adhere to internationally recognized environmental, social and corporate governance standards (ESG standards). We also expect our suppliers to use their best efforts to implement these standards with their suppliers and subcontractors...BASF reserves the right to conduct audits or assessments to ensure your compliance and will take appropriate steps regarding our relationship with you if there is a reason for concern. BASF reserves the right to discontinue any relationship for non-adherence to international principles, failure to correct violations, or displaying patterns of non-compliance with these standards."
          Open source document
        • Accessible grievance mechanism
          Yes, publicly accessible grievance mechanism
          2/4
          Accessible grievance mechanism
          Yes, publicly accessible grievance mechanism
          2/4
          Which issues does the grievance mechanism cover?: Social; Environmental

          What is the nature of the grievance mechanism used by the company?: Own mechanism
          "We offer worldwide operational-level grievance and/or complaint mechanisms. We take on critical questions and listen to all grievances. We ensure that all concerns that are brought forward to us are addressed. We strive for appropriate remediation by the responsible party." [...] "We offer communication channels for all affected individuals, for own employees, business partners and their employees, and the general public affected by our operations. Our grievance hotline via e-mail or phone is another element of our global our grievance and complaints mechanism."; "The BASF Palm Grievance Procedure is specifically related to violations and/or non-compliances against BASF’s palm commitment, BASF’s responsible palm sourcing policy, Sustainability Policy, Supplier Code of Conduct and BASF Group Position on Human rights in BASF’s palm supply chain."
          Open source document
          Open source document
        • Report volumes of commodity
          No reporting
          0/3
        • Upstream: Monitor compliance with human rights
          No
          0/5
        • Compliance of company-owned operations
          No
          0/5
        • Downstream: Publishing supplier lists
          No
          0/4
        • Downstream: Monitor compliance in supply chain
          No
          0/4
        • Downstream: Reporting hectares of deforestation
          No
          0/4
        • Downstream: Engagement with non-compliant suppliers
          No engagement or exclusion
          0/2
        • Downstream: Disclosure of non-compliant suppliers
          No disclosure
          0/2
    • Soy *
      10/90
      • Commitment Strength
        0/17
        • Commitment to protect priority forests
          0/9.5
          • Commitment details
            No commitment
            0/6
          • Commitment applies to all regions, suppliers and operation
            No
            0/2
          • Target date
            Post 2050 or no target date
            0/1
          • Interim target date
            No
            0/0.5
        • Commitment to a traceable supply chain
          0/7.5
          • Commitment details
            No traceability commitment
            0/4
          • Commitment applies to all regions, suppliers and operation
            No
            0/2
          • Target date
            Post 2050 or no target date
            0/1
          • Interim target date
            No
            0/0.5
      • Associated Human Rights Abuses
        6/17
        • Labour rights in the supply chain
          Yes
          3/3
          Labour rights in the supply chain
          Yes
          3/3
          Details of commitment: ILO; UNGP; UN Declaration for HR; Discrimination; Forced labour; Child labour; Freedom of association

          Other workers' rights commitments: Guaranteed safe and healthy workspaces; Free from abusive practices/undue disciplinary procedures

          How far back in the supply chain does this commitment apply?: Suppliers
          "We particularly expect you as our supplier to support, embrace and enact the following ESG standards, which are based on the ten principles of the United Nations Global Compact initiative, the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, the International Labour Organization, Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work, and the global chemical industry’s Responsible Care® program: You support the protection of internationally proclaimed human rights, fight forced labor (including modern slavery and human trafficking) and child labor • You uphold the freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining in accordance with applicable laws. You comply with minimum wages and working hours in accordance with local laws, and ensure compensation of a living wage according to local living conditions. • You treat your employees with respect and provide a workplace free of harassment or abuse of any kind, harsh and inhumane treatment, unlawful practices or discrimination • You comply with all applicable environmental, health and safety regulations."
          Open source document
        • Inclusion of small-scale farmers
          No
          0/2
        • Gender equality in the supply chain
          No commitment
          0/2
        • Commitment to remediation
          Yes
          1/1
          Commitment to remediation
          Yes
          0.5/1
          What does the commitment cover?: Social harm; Environmental harm
          "BASF is committed to the following actions: − Systematically evaluate sustainability topics (e.g. potential impact on forests, biodiversity criteria) as an integral part of investment decisions on the construction of new sites and the expansion of existing sites. These may include compensation measures for the loss of forests, e.g. investments in local reforestation programs. The protection of forests from negative impacts of our operations, if applicable, is always an effort in cooperation with local partners and competent authorities."[...]"We will identify measures to provide remediation in cases where BASF has directly caused or contributed to any non-compliance of FPIC in its own operations and we do expect this from our suppliers."
          Open source document
        • Commitment to ensure Free, Prior and Informed Consent
          Yes, the company commits to test for FPIC prior to acquiring new interests, developments, or expansions
          2/3
          Commitment to ensure Free, Prior and Informed Consent
          Yes, the company commits to test for FPIC prior to acquiring new interests, developments, or expansions
          2/3
          How far back in the supply chain does this commitment apply?: Tier 2
          "We do expect any land use change development activity to respect the rights of indigenous and local communities to give or withhold their Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) where they hold legal, communal or customary rights in accordance with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People (UNDRIP) and the HCS Approach social requirements."
          Open source document
        • Commitment to resolve land conflicts
          No
          0/3
        • Zero-tolerance approach to violence and threats
          No
          0/3
      • Implementation and Reporting
        4/56
        • Reporting volumes against commitments
          No disclosure
          0/3
        • Reporting is independently verified
          No
          0/2
        • Suppliers aligned with deforestation commitments across supply chain
          No
          0/3
        • Deforestation cut off date
          No
          0/2
        • Collaborative actions
          No
          0/2
        • Jurisdictional approach focused on sustainable land use
          No
          0/2
        • Risk assessments for forest risk
          No
          0/2
        • Operations assessed to comply with law
          Yes
          2/2
          Operations assessed to comply with law
          Yes
          2/2
          "We expect our suppliers to fully comply with applicable laws and to adhere to internationally recognized environmental, social and corporate governance standards (ESG standards). We also expect our suppliers to use their best efforts to implement these standards with their suppliers and subcontractors...BASF reserves the right to conduct audits or assessments to ensure your compliance and will take appropriate steps regarding our relationship with you if there is a reason for concern. BASF reserves the right to discontinue any relationship for non-adherence to international principles, failure to correct violations, or displaying patterns of non-compliance with these standards."
          Open source document
        • Accessible grievance mechanism
          Yes, publicly accessible grievance mechanism
          2/4
          Accessible grievance mechanism
          Yes, publicly accessible grievance mechanism
          2/4
          What is the nature of the grievance mechanism used by the company?: Own mechanism

          Which issues does the grievance mechanism cover?: Social; Environmental
          "We offer worldwide operational-level grievance and/or complaint mechanisms. We take on critical questions and listen to all grievances. We ensure that all concerns that are brought forward to us are addressed. We strive for appropriate remediation by the responsible party." [...] "We offer communication channels for all affected individuals, for own employees, business partners and their employees, and the general public affected by our operations. Our grievance hotline via e-mail or phone is another element of our global our grievance and complaints mechanism."; "The BASF Palm Grievance Procedure is specifically related to violations and/or non-compliances against BASF’s palm commitment, BASF’s responsible palm sourcing policy, Sustainability Policy, Supplier Code of Conduct and BASF Group Position on Human rights in BASF’s palm supply chain."
          Open source document
          Open source document
        • Report volumes of commodity
          No reporting
          0/3
        • Upstream: Monitor compliance with human rights
          No
          0/5
        • Compliance of company-owned operations
          No
          0/5
        • Downstream: Publishing supplier lists
          No
          0/4
        • Downstream: Monitor compliance in supply chain
          No
          0/4
        • Downstream: Reporting hectares of deforestation
          No
          0/4
        • Downstream: Engagement with non-compliant suppliers
          No engagement or exclusion
          0/2
        • Downstream: Disclosure of non-compliant suppliers
          No disclosure
          0/2

    • * commodity scores for which a company is not a powerbroker are given half the weighting of other commodities in total scores

  • Commitment strength
    8/17
    Avg. score
  • Implementation and Reporting
    15/56
    Avg. score
  • Associated Human Rights Abuses
    7/17
    Avg. score

Profile

BASF is one of the world’s leading chemical companies, operating in over 80 countries. Its portfolio includes a wide range of products including chemicals, plastics, agricultural solutions, and even oil and gas. Palm kernel oil and its derivatives are key raw materials for BASF’s home and personal care offerings. BASF Personal Care and Nutrition GmbH is selected as a powerbroker for palm oil and paper packaging.

Sector
Industry sector 
Agricultural Products, Paper Packaging
Segments
Manufacturer
HQ
HQ 
Germany
Company Type
Company type 
CO
Collective Commitments
Consumer Goods Forum member
New York Declaration on Forests signatory

Top Brands

BASF

How we assess the Forest 500

To ensure deforestation free supply chains, companies need to adopt and implement timebound and measurable policies for forest risk commodities.

All assessments use policies published on company websites, some links may have changed or been removed since the time of assessment.

Full corporate sector performance data Forest 500 assessment methodology

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Disclaimer

This assessment has been carried out following the methodology developed for the Forest 500 project, available here. Please see our disclaimer applicable to all information contained within this site and our terms and conditions for use of data presented on this site.

All assessments use policies published on company and financial institution websites, and while we endeavor to keep them updated some links may have changed or been removed since the time of assessment.

Please contact us with any concerns or feedback about this or other assessments included in the Forest 500.