Strong governance helps ensure integrity. Our Code of Business Ethics and other corporate responsibility (CR)-related policies set high standards of conduct across our operations. The Ericsson Group Management System (EGMS) monitors compliance and integrates our CR goals throughout the organization.

Ericsson and it's stakeholders expect high environmental and social standards along the supply chain. In 2008 we initiated a more comprehensive global roll-out of our Supplier Code of Conduct (S-CoC) compliance monitoring program.

Delivering energy-efficient solutions to help customers reduce CO2 emissions is a responsibility, and a source of competitive advantage and new revenue streams. To tackle our own footprint, Ericsson committed in 2008 to a 40 percent reduction in carbon emissions per subscriber in five years. We are also exploring how telecommunications can help create more sustainable societies.

Communication is a basic human need and telecommunications can bring social, environmental and economic benefits to societies around the world. By making telecom more affordable and accessible, Ericsson is shaping new markets and helping to bridge the digital divide.

Ericsson seeks to integrate its sponsorship activities with CR goals. Through the Volvo Ocean Race, we aim to raise local awareness of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and global sustainability challenges. We also leverage our expertise through Ericsson Response, a worldwide employee volunteer initiative to roll out communication solutions for disaster relief operations.

Ericsson is committed to its employees. Their diversity is a hallmark of our culture and a driver of innovation. Our vision to be a prime driver in an all-communicating world requires a learning culture that spurs innovation. Learning enhances competitiveness, and stimulates creativity and openness to change.