Anglo American voluntarily contributes to a number of
sustainability indices that benchmark and track the performance of
the most socially responsible companies. Such indices provide
investors with an independent evaluation of our approach to
sustainable development, and encourage transparent disclosure of
non-financial information within our industry.
The Johannesburg Stock Exchange Socially Responsible Investment
(JSE SRI) Index was launched in May 2004 in response to an
increased focus on sustainability issues globally as well as those
particular to South Africa.
Anglo American has taken part in the JSE SRI since it launched
and has consistently been listed as a 'top performer' since
2005.
Companies that take part are judged based on criteria determined
by the JSE in consultation with the 2009 Advisory Committee, an
independent panel of experts that includes investment managers,
representatives of listed companies, sustainability experts and
academics. The assessment is based on a company's performance and
policy on environment, society, economic impact and governance.
Within the environmental criteria, companies are classified as
high, medium or low impact based on their activities. The society
and governance criteria reflect global standards while
accommodating issues particular to South Africa, such as Black
Economic Empowerment (BEE) and HIV/AIDS. They also incorporate
economic factors and related sustainability concerns reflective of
the emerging market.
The criteria that the JSE SRI has been using since the 2007
review were developed in conjunction with the EIRIS and FTSE4Good,
with advisory services provided by KPMG Sustainability
Services.