Social Responsibility
Making a difference. Worldwide.
What does it mean to take responsibility beyond business? At Freudenberg, we believe in making a lasting impact – not just within our value chain but also creating positive change in the communities where we live and work. That’s why we support a wide range of social and community projects worldwide, from small local initiatives to complex international programs, each tailored to meet specific local needs.
Equally important to us is fostering an inclusive and diverse environment. We are committed to promoting diversity and inclusion (D&I) both within our workforce and through our community initiatives. By embracing different perspectives, we create a workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered, while also contributing to a more equitable society.
Three Areas of Impact:
Our Corporate Citizenship
Our commitment combines long-term dedication and reliability with the flexibility to step in when urgent help is needed. This balance makes our social engagement so diverse and impactful. Currently, our initiatives are divided into three key areas: Flagship Projects, Aid Programs, and "Freudenberg as a Good Neighbor”activities.
Flagship Projects
One of Freudenberg’s major flagship projects is our e2 program (education and environment), supported with a total of €21 million. Launched in 2015, the program encourages employees worldwide to get involved in their communities by initiating and supporting nonprofit projects focused on education and environmental protection. Freudenberg provides financial support for these projects, often over several years, to ensure lasting impact.
Together, we are making a difference – one project at a time
Aid Programs
When urgent needs arise, Freudenberg responds swiftly. Whether it's a hurricane, flood, or ongoing humanitarian crisis, we focus on providing immediate and long-term assistance. In Asheville, North Carolina, USA, for example, we helped after severe flooding. In Ukraine, we have partnered with more than 40 organizations to support those affected by the war.
Together, we are making a difference – one project at a time
“Freudenberg as a Good Neighbor”
As a "good neighbor," Freudenberg actively supports local initiatives and engages directly with communities. Operating in nearly 60 countries, we encourage employees to participate in social projects that create meaningful change. At many of these sites, Freudenberg companies and their employees actively contribute to local social projects, taking on their social responsibility.
Together, we are making a difference – one project at a time
real impact. real stories.
e2 in Romania
Education for Disadvantaged Children
The organization "Rubio Pro Copilărie Pro Viață" supports orphaned children and those from single-parent households in Arad, Romania. Many of these children face financial hardships and have limited access to education. The organization provides scholarships, tutoring, and psychological support. In addition to the financial assistance from Freudenberg, our employees support with mentoring and guidance on education and career development.
e2 in India
Clean Drinking Water with AquaTower
In Tamil Nadu, India, Freudenberg employees, in collaboration with the Planet Water Foundation, have built an AquaTower. The tower supplies clean drinking water to 530 students at the PUMS Melpadappai School and the surrounding community. The built-in filtration system purifies contaminated water, helping prevent waterborne diseases.
The Freudenberg Foundation
Since 1984, the Freudenberg Foundation has driven long-term structural change through programs that promote inclusion, education, and democracy. The foundation’s projects focus primarily on children and young people, supporting their social, linguistic, educational, and vocational integration.
Botanical Garden in Weinheim
A feast for the senses: The “Schau- und Sichtungsgarten Hermannshof” in Weinheim, Germany, is a stunning botanical garden largely funded by the Freudenberg Group. It is a place of peace and relaxation, where visitors can escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and experience the diversity of the plant world. With free admission, the garden attracts visitors from all over the world, inspiring them with its natural beauty and innovative landscaping ideas.
Support for People Affected by the War in Ukraine
Following immediate relief efforts at the start of the war, Freudenberg has shifted its focus to supporting organizations that provide long-term aid and help to integrate refugees. More than 40 organizations in Ukraine and across Europe have received support from Freudenberg including the Ukrainian Friends Foundation, which is building container villages in safe areas within Ukraine.
Support Following Natural Disasters
Freudenberg regularly provides immediate assistance when there are natural disasters. In 2024, the company donated to support victims of a hurricane in Texas and a flood in Asheville, North Carolina. Additionally, Freudenberg matched employee contributions, doubling the total aid provided.
Good Neighbor
“Service Day” in North America
Every September, more than 60 Freudenberg locations across North America take part in various community service activities. Since 2014, employees in the USA, Canada, and Mexico have come together on "Service Day" to support local communities by assisting those in need, planting trees, or cleaning parks.
Good Neighbor
Tackling Poverty and Isolation Among Seniors
For nearly 70 years, works council members in Weinheim have been collecting donations for low-income retirees ahead of the holiday season. Freudenberg then matches these contributions, helping to provide warm meals and foster social interaction.
Good Neighbor
Local Initiatives Around Our Locations
Freudenberg operates in nearly 60 countries. At many of these locations, Freudenberg companies and their employees actively participate in local social projects, fulfilling to their social responsibility and making a meaningful impact in their communities.
Diversity & Inclusion: Stronger together
Diverse teams drive innovation at Freudenberg. We actively cultivate an inclusive environment where every individual feels empowered to share their unique perspectives. Our diverse workforce fosters creativity, strengthens problem-solving, and enables us to meet the needs of our customers in a dynamic, ever-changing world. By embracing diversity, we build stronger relationships with customers, partners, and communities – driving sustainable growth and long-term success.
We do not tolerate discrimination or unequal treatment, especially not that which is based on national, ethnic, or social origin, religion or ideology, political opinion, sexual orientation, trade union involvement, age, state of health, gender, or any disability. By promoting equal opportunities and ensuring that all voices are heard, we create a culture of belonging that extends beyond the workplace.
The Diversity and Inclusion Community at Freudenberg plays a pivotal role in fostering an inclusive workplace. This group-wide community of employees is dedicated to driving initiatives that ensure everyone feels valued, respected and heard in our corporate culture. The goal is to create a work environment where diversity thrives, and where everyone can learn, grow, and develop together.
Engaging in Global Initiatives
As a family-owned company, Freudenberg has always been driven by strong, unwavering values that shape how we conduct business worldwide. To strengthen our commitment to social responsibility and sustainability, we actively engage in several international initiatives.
Since 2014, Freudenberg has been a member of the UN Global Compact, the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative. We fully support its ten principles on human rights, labor standards, environment, and anti-corruption. For example, we are deeply committed to Principle 9, which emphasizes reducing inefficiencies and minimizing environmental impact. We actively implement measures to reduce CO₂ emissions and enhance sustainability. Additionally, our internal "We all take care" program, launched in 2002, promotes best practices in occupational health and safety, aligning with the UN Global Compact’s standards.
We are also committed to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals established in 2016 following the Paris Climate Agreement. These goals advocate for a world free of poverty, universal access to education, and a global commitment to human rights, climate action, health, and safety. Freudenberg has identified nine key Sustainable Development Goals where we can drive the most impact, and we are actively advancing these goals.
Freudenberg regularly reports on how we implement the 10 principles of the UN Global Compact and contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
