Mika Takaoka
PhD in Economics
Professor College of Business Rikkyo University
I would like to offer an evaluation on two points.
First, the core operational companies (Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation (MCC), Mitsubishi Plastics, Inc. (MPI) and Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation (MTPC) ) and Mitsubishi Chemical Holdings Corporation (MCHC) are all moving forward with multilayered CSR activities. On the one hand, the operating companies' specific characteristics enable them to conduct unique CSR activities. On the other hand, the different cultures of each of the operating companies enhance the combined effect of CSR management for the overall Group. In the latter sense, appropriate implementation of internal control should be an important focal point.
The second point I would like to make is about the launch of the KAITEKI Institute. It is clear that challenges facing such broad-ranging research themes over long periods cannot be solved in isolation and require a multidisciplinary approach. However, the KAITEKI Institute appears able to handle projects on this scale because of its novel format, involving tie-ups and cooperative efforts among academia, scientific research institutions, venture companies and other entities throughout the world.
Also, I would like to make two requests.
My first request would be to expand the social indicators in the reference section*1. I believe there is room to improve this section, such as on items that are marked "not disclosed" and items that are not included, such as the percentage of women in managerial and executive roles.
Second, I would ask for an expanded mention of initiatives toward a sustainable environment. For example, the explanation of the chart on page 9 referring to greenhouse gas reduction targets is not sufficient, and its relevance to the Lifecycle Analysis Project*2 is unclear.
It is important to have a brand power as a holding company including CSR brand, not only for the operating companies, but also for the holding company itself―a holding company with diversified portfolio management function. This is an extremely important component of enhancing the MCHC Group's corporate value. In an overall sense, this is the direction in which I would like to see MCHC's CSR activities move.
Noboru Tsuda
Managing Executive Officer, Chief Compliance Officer,
General Manager,
Internal Control Office, Mitsubishi Chemical Holdings Corporation
Thank you for sharing your opinions regarding the CSR activities of the MCHC Group. In July 2008, we launched the MCHC Group KAITEKI Project, consisting of six working groups, with the aim of realizing a sustainable society. These working groups have now established their working system, and begun their activities. In the future, we expect to be able to introduce to society our targets and activities, including in the areas that you have indicated, in a more understandable way. At the same time, by exchanging opinions with stakeholders about these activities, we expect to enjoy a greater understanding by society of our efforts.
In response to your comment about the insufficient disclosure of data on the percentage of women in managerial and executive positions, we and the operating companies will work to resolve this issue.
The MCHC Group will continue building the underpinnings for its business activities, including in the area of internal control. We will also remain true to our Group Philosophy of building a better tomorrow by providing technologies, products and services. We seek to enhance corporate value in these ways.
