Siemens UK chief executive wins International Award for Responsible Capitalism

He said: “Concern for local communities and for environmental protection are not optional extras for Mr Wood, but are part and parcel of his business activities.” Lord Dahrendorf highlighted Siemens’ energy saving initiatives and a scheme for school pupils in the West Midlands to recycle waste packaging.

Alan Wood said: “Siemens in the UK has a long tradition of social and environmental concern. Sir William Siemens, our founder, who arrived in London in 1843, was a pioneer in this respect.

“Corporate responsibility is good for business. It enhances our brand reputation, helps us to recruit and retain excellent people, and increases our profitability.

“The vast majority of our businesses have links with local schools and universities under our Generation21 educational initiative – nurturing the young scientists and engineers who will be key to the success of the UK and of our company long after I have gone.

“I am also very proud that so many of our products and systems are helping to reduce environmental impact and climate change – from energy saving light bulbs to hydro, wind generation and biomass-fired power stations.”

Mr Wood is the seventh business leader to receive the award. Previous winners include Lord Browne of Madingley, group chief executive of BP (2000), and Sir Robert Wilson KCMG, now chairman of the BG Group, who received the award in 2002.

Siemens has also been named a low carbon leader of the decade, in awards sponsored by The Climate Group and highlighted in a special BusinessWeek report.

The Climate Group is a charity working to accelerate the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by assembling a leadership coalition of the world’s most pro-active companies, cities, states and governments. The Low Carbon Leaders Awards recognise emission reduction and leadership on climate change over the last ten years. For more information, go to www.theclimategroup.org.