Sustainable Development seeks to bring together, in one approach, requirements that were long considered incompatible: long-term wealth creation, respect for human beings and environmental protection. These themes are the three pillars of sustainable development.

Since its creation, Air Liquide has had a long-term approach to its activities. One business, one name, steady growth, regular dividends, long-lasting relations with its major customers, and the loyalty of employees and individual shareholders demonstrate this commitment.

Air Liquide has therefore developed a sustainable development model that is specific to the Company, with four dimensions that were formalized in 2003 through a commitment signed by Benoît Potier, Chairman and CEO of the Group:

• Creating value for shareholders by developing the Company’s activity and performance over the long term and communicating this performance in a transparent manner.

• Developing the potential of the Company’s men and women in their commitment to common objectives.

• Preserving life and the environment in the Group’s operations and at its customers’ sites.

• Innovating for tomorrow to guarantee the growth of the Company and its customers.