Under the theme “Innovation, Sustainability and Color,” PPG Industries recently hosted its Asia Pacific Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility Forum and a celebration of the company’s 130th anniversary in Shanghai. PPG executives from all over Asia Pacific, officials from the Development Research Center of State Council, China Ministry of Commerce, China Ministry of Environmental Protection, World Resources Institute, China Association of Enterprises with Foreign Investment, Shanghai Association of Enterprises with Foreign Investment, Association of International Chemical Manufacturers, Tsinghua University and local government, and representatives from leading local media attended the forum to exchange ideas on corporate social responsibility, environment protection and sustainable development.

“Sustainable development is a crucial issue for both companies and the society at large, in order to preserve a healthy and balanced relationship between the environment, economic growth and humanity,” said Mike Horton, PPG president, Asia Pacific region. “This forum aims to provide a platform for experts from all lines of work to exchange ideas on sustainable development approaches for business and society.”

Horton and other senior executives from PPG discussed the company’s experiences and achievements in environmental protection, employee care and social responsibility fulfillment. They showcased PPG’s successes in areas such as sustainable plant operations, the development and promotion of “green” products and creating a healthy corporate culture. They also touched on PPG’s CSR initiatives such as volunteer activities, caring for the community and disadvantaged groups, and supporting education and disaster relief. In the discussion session, attendees exchanged views on sustainable growth strategies and healthy development for society.

After the forum, PPG hosted a celebration for the company’s 130th anniversary in business, during which members of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra entertained guests with a performance.

Sustainable business practices have been part of PPG’s strategy and culture since its early days of operation. Over the last decade, PPG has transformed from being a diversified, multibusiness manufacturer to being the world’s leading coatings and specialty products company in part because of its sustainable development strategy. In the 2012 PPG Corporate Sustainability Report published in April 2013, the company launched its new sustainability vision, values and goals. Leading up to 2020, PPG will strive to reduce environmental impact, improve employees’ safety, health and well-being, and encourage and report employee charitable donations and volunteerism.

“Sustainable development is never a short-term endeavor,” said John Richter, PPG vice president of operations, coatings, Asia Pacific. “PPG is committed to sustainable growth strategies and never stops exploring better ways for corporate and social development. We hope our efforts can encourage more enterprises to actively fulfill their social responsibilities and contribute to the development of a sustainable society.”