Message for CSR Month to all employees of Toshiba Group

Toshiba's Commitment

The battered global economy is making our business environment even more challenging. Nevertheless, I am convinced that we will be able to overcome current adversity, provided that we seize opportunities to trigger unceasing innovation. I urge you to persevere and to tap your potential to the full.

In these circumstances, we must make a concerted effort to overcome difficulties, based on a clear recognition of the value Toshiba Group provides to society and of what is entailed in the exemplary fulfillment of our responsibility to society.

In terms of execution of CSR-oriented management, I have emphasized our drive to become an exemplary corporate citizen of planet Earth ever since I was appointed president. I ask you to look back and see how much progress toward this goal has been made in your workplace.

In practice, our mission as a corporate citizen of planet Earth has two aspects. On the one hand, throughout our operations, we must take a leading role in contributing to a better global environment. Toshiba Group Environmental Vision 2050 is the expression of this commitment. Whatever your role within our business, and throughout your work, I ask you to embrace Toshiba Group’s strategy of promoting mitigation of climate change, a critical social issue.

At the same time, it is essential that we recognize, respect and value the cultural diversity of the communities in which we do business around the world. Because diverse perspectives and ideas fuel business success in the global marketplace, Toshiba Group is cultivating people with a global perspective. I ask you to reflect on the issues facing the countries and regions where we do business, and to thoroughly review your workplace environment, also taking into account the situation at your suppliers. Through our determination to promote practical activities, and by working to contribute to solving issues that impact on society, Toshiba Group can earn the respect and trust of people throughout the world.

Fulfillment of CSR is rooted in our principle of according the highest priority to human life, safety and to legal compliance. I ask you to perform strict self-assessment to make sure this fundamental principle is thoroughly adhered to in your workplace.

Increasingly, amid intensifying international competition, violation of antitrust laws or bribery of public officials can have major consequences. A compliance scandal can undermine confidence in the Toshiba brand, ruining over 130 years of hard work and dedication at one stroke. I ask and expect you to make your very best efforts to ensure compliance.

CSR Month is a golden opportunity for all of us to reflect on how Toshiba Group’s CSR is woven into the fabric of our business and of our workplaces. Much has been achieved, but more remains to be done. Going forward, I ask all of you to combine your energies and expertise, and to work together to make Toshiba Group a highly trusted and respected corporate citizen of planet Earth.