Conducting business responsibly is the essence of our culture. One of the principal examples of this is our signing of the United Nations Global Compact.
As Pfizer became a more global company – and society’s expectations of business changed – we decided to sign the Global Compact in 2002. This is a network of UN agencies, corporations, non-governmental organisations, labour and academic institutions that endorse a shared set of principles on good corporate citizenship. We are the only American pharmaceutical company to sign so far.
Companies that sign the Compact commit to support and advance 10 Principles on human rights, labour, the environment and anti-corruption. These are based on internationally accepted principles to improve global society. Signing affirms our long-standing commitment to conduct business responsibly.
Examples of how we are implementing the Global Compact manifest in our many community programmes and worldwide corporate responsibility activities:
Volunteering: We have a long history of volunteering in local communities. Up to the equivalent of five paid days a year can be made available to staff who wish to give something back by volunteering.
Payroll Giving: This scheme allows you to make regular donations to charities out of your salary. Subject to your annual review and limits outlined by Pfizer, we will then match your donations.
Environmental Awareness: This is about the way we manage our land and buildings. The way we operate our production processes and minimise waste. The way we use energy efficiently and conserve our resources. The way we protect wildlife around our sites. All are examples of our commitment to the environment – and a normal part of our daily business.
At our Sandwich office in Kent, we encourage wildlife to settle on the low-lying agricultural land surrounding the site. The 69-acre Pfizer Monks' Wall Nature Reserve has been created to attract long-billed waders to settle and feed during migration, as well as encouraging other indigenous flora and fauna.
The Walton Oaks office is in partnership with the Surrey Wildlife Trust. This began in the summer of 2000 when Dr David Bellamy, President of the Trust, presented a £1 coin to Pfizer’s Director of Projects in payment for the 70-acre site known as the Dawcombe Nature Reserve, which adjoins the new headquarters.
Wherever you are based, you’ll be encouraged to utilise “green” modes of transport such as car-share, walking, cycling or the shuttle bus service.
Educational Support: Education is very important to Pfizer. We run an Academic Liaison Programme, predominantly in East Kent, designed to encourage schools and colleges to adopt exciting and innovative approaches to science. Currently, we support over 200 local schools in Kent through the provision of cash grants for science projects, a work experience programme, curriculum-based visits and special events.