Metso is focusing its know-how on customer core processes with the aim of developing technologies and services which also benefit the environment. Many technology developments are focused on environmentally advanced products and processes that meet customer eco-efficiency needs, and on ways of identifying and managing the environmental aspects of the life cycle of products.

Metso's environmental strategy is an integrated part of the technology strategy and targets towards environmental leadership. The environmental strategy is based on the expertise shared between the businesses. Development of environmental competence and knowledge about customers' environmental problems is essential in the strategy implementation.

Efforts towards sustainable development

In its environmental policy, Metso states its commitment to the principles of sustainable development. Metso is comitted to taking environmental issues into consideration in its own operations as well as in products and services that are offered to customers. The policy was updated in June 2001 according to the Metso strategy. The updated policy highlights the environmental synergies between Metso businesses.

Responsibilities for the environmental management in Metso are defined for all the levels of organization. Business areas have the responsibility of taking environmental performance into account in their business. Metso environment board, which represents both corporate and business interests, coordinates environmental issues on a Metso level.

The minimization of environmental risks and the continuous improvement in environmental performance are the main targets in Metso's own operations. Metso has chosen the ISO 14001 standard to manage product and process-related opportunities and risks throughout the organization. Metso maintains an effective network of relationships with stakeholders in order to support its environmental strategy and investments.

Environmental reporting

For Metso, active and open communication concerning environmental performance, targets and results, both internally and externally, are of high importance. Metso is developing its reporting according to the Global Reporting Initiative's (GRI) sustainability reporting guidelines. More information on the subject the Environmental report.

Metso Environment in 2001

In 2001, eco-efficiency was the key focus area of improving the environmental performance of Metso's products and services. Life-cycle assessment (LCA) project was completed in co-operation with Metso's customers and partners. For example, in 2001 Metso Paper finalized an extensive life-cycle assessment of a paper machine. The results of the LCA projects are utilized in the product development in all the business areas.

Metso Corporation was re-selected for the third time for the Dow Jones Sustainability Index World (DJSI) for the period 2001-2002. Metso is also a component of the new European sustainability index - DJSI STOXX. The indexes track the financial performance of the world's sustainability leaders in terms of environmental, social and economic criteria. Metso achieved above average scores in all of the three dimensions of the corporate sustainability in the DJSI assessment and is the sustainability leader in its own industry group.

Next steps

In 2002 Metso carries out an analysis of environmental business opportunities in areas exploiting corporate synergies. We continue to develop and certify environmental management systems according to ISO 14001. To support environmental strategy, Metso reviews the key performance indicators and develops supporting data gathering and reporting practices.

For additional information, please click: Environmental Report