A history spanning over 220 years clearly demonstrates that sustainability is an integral part of everyday working life within the BAUER Group, embodying a set of principles which we follow in every decision we take. It was only on the basis of sustainable long-term strategies that what was once a small craftsman's business could be turned into the global concern that today operates in some 70 countries around the world.

As a global player, we are aware that our actions always have a direct impact on the world around us which we will one day pass on to future generations. Bauer has prepared itself well to face the challenges of the future: shortages of raw material resources, accompanied by a steady growth in the world's population, and the energy problems this will entail, will demand enormous effort and commitment on the part of policy-makers and society at large if they are to be overcome. We have established a third arm of our business, alongside our Construction and Equipment segments, specializing in those key areas of vital importance to our planet's future. Our Resources segment bundles services in the fields of mining, geothermal energy, environmental technology and well-building.

Sustainability is of course a principle to which all our business segments adhere. It is practised throughout all our activities and processes – including the development of low-emission, high-efficiency machines and engineering techniques; our participation in national and international research projects in relevant fields; our continuous striving to enhance occupational health and safety; and our commitment to investing in the education and training of our employees. Alongside considerations of ecological and economic aspects, we view our commitment to act in a sustainable manner as above all a matter of responsibility to society at large and especially to our customers, shareholders, business partners and employees.

Our employees are as diverse as the fields of business in which we operate. The BAUER Group employs people of 74 different nationalities worldwide. The individuality and experience of each of them are key factors in ensuring the success of the company. Our commercial success is also dependent in large part on our ability to utilize and promote that diversity. The differing skills and talents of our employees open up opportunities for us to come up with innovative and creative new solutions. Consequently, as a matter of fundamental policy we offer all our employees the same opportunities – regardless of their age, religion, nationality, gender, marital status or country of origin. After all, diversity is a key element of sustainability.

Sustainable action is of course not something that can be simply made to happen by edict or command; it has to be embedded in the fabric of the company and practised consistently at all levels. Transparency and openness – in dealing with both internal colleagues and external parties – are key factors too. This third Sustainability Report sets out how we strive to achieve those goals.

The following pages set out what we mean when we talk about practised sustainability. They also provide an overview of our accomplishments and successes in 2010, and detail the goals which we have set ourselves. I would like to thank everyone who has contributed to the production of this report, and I very much hope that all who read it will find much to interest and inspire them.

Best Regards,
Thomas Bauer