Officially launched in July 2000, the pact is founded on 10 principles covering the areas of human rights, labour standards, environment protection and anti-corruption. Since its inception, it has grown to include 8,500 members from 135 countries from across the globe.

"We accept these principles as the basis for responsible corporate management and we look forward to working together with the United Nations and the other undersigned parties to further improve our performance," says Christoph Hess, Hess AG CEO.

As one of the world's leading manufacturer's of decorative outdoor lighting, not only does Hess AG live according to sustainable corporate principles, but it has also promoted the sustainability of its customers, in particular, through the availability since 2003 of LED technology-based products in its product range. Advanced LED technology permits the drastic reduction of energy usage, which besides saving money, reduces customers' carbon footprints.