Zurich again qualified for inclusion in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index

Zurich, September 8, 2008 – Zurich Financial Services Group (Zurich) is pleased to announce that the Group in 2008 again met one of its ongoing corporate responsibility objectives - the inclusion in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI). Zurich, earning SAM Bronze Class distinction in 2008, continues to demonstrate year on year improvements. The Group’s overall score rose to 69% in 2008 from 62% in 2006 and 68% in 2007.  A detailed analysis of the just recently announced results of the 2008 annual review for the Dow Jones Sustainability and Dow Jones STOXX Sustainability indexes shows that Zurich’s scores are above average not only in the social, environmental and economic dimensions of the Dow Jones Sustainability Index but also in nearly all of the subcategories of these dimensions.
The Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes follow a best-in-class approach and include sustainability leaders from each industry on a global and regional level respectively. The annual review of the DJSI family is based on a thorough analysis of corporate economic, environmental and social performance, assessing issues such as corporate governance, risk management, climate change mitigation, supply chain standards and labor practices. The results of the annual review of the DJSI family are watched closely by market participants around the world. Total assets under management in DJSI-based investment vehicles now stand at approximately USD 6 Billion.
It is Zurich’s belief that a responsible company is one which takes measures to create value for both the company and society by proactively addressing material social, environmental and governance issues. Therefore, the Group continuously strives for better integration of pertinent issues and related stakeholder expectations into its core business. Zurich’s ongoing inclusion in the DJSI and its year on year improvement can be valued as a direct result of these efforts.

http://www.sustainability-indexes.com/djsi_pdf/news/PressReleases/SAM_PressReleases_080904_Review08.pdf

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