With around 200,000 employees, millions of customers, and numerous business partners, Deutsche Bahn plays a central role in society. The decisions made by the company have an impact on the environment and the lives of many people. DB is always aware of this responsibility. That is why the company is constantly working to ensure sustainable value creation throughout the entire supply chain, in which human rights are upheld and respected.
For Deutsche Bahn, economic success and socially responsible action are not contradictory, but rather mutually dependent. Suppliers and other business partners are likewise expected to treat people and the environment with respect as the basis for a reliable and sustainable partnership.
Sustainability is a central principle of Deutsche Bahn’s business activities and is firmly anchored in the Group's Strong Rail strategy. The company pursues an integrated approach that encompasses the environmental, social and economic dimension of sustainability.
To achieve sustainable and responsible value creation in its own business activities and along its supply chain, Deutsche Bahn is committed to upholding and promoting internationally recognized human rights, respecting labor standards and protecting the environment.
When it comes to complying with human rights and environmental due diligence obligations, Deutsche Bahn applies high expectations to both itself and its business partners. This commitment is reflected in the internal Code of Conduct, which sets out binding standards and expectations for daily conduct. All management board members, managing directors, managers and employees worldwide are bound by the principles defined in this internal Code of Conduct.
At the same time, Deutsche Bahn recognizes that its responsibility as an international company goes beyond its own actions. The specific requirements and principles for cooperation with business partners are set out in the DB Code of Conduct for Business Partners. Suppliers and other business partners pledge to comply with this Code of Conduct or equivalent requirements.
Deutsche Bahn is in dialogue with suppliers and other business partners to ensure that these standards are observed and passed on along the supply chain. Transparency and information-sharing support understanding and compliance.
German Act on Corporate Due Diligence Obligations in Supply Chains
With the adoption of the Act on Corporate Due Diligence Obligations in Supply Chains (Lieferkettensorgfaltspflichtengesetz, "LkSG"), German legislation has established a framework for ensuring responsible and sustainable value creation along the supply chain. Deutsche Bahn complies with the requirements of this law.
An appropriate risk management system has been established, supported by regular analyses to identify and minimize potential human rights and environmental risks and to prevent or end violations, or at least minimize their impact.
Preventive measures are also taken to reduce the risk of neglecting human rights and environmental responsibilities in Deutsche Bahn’s own business activities or those of its suppliers. Subsidiaries of Deutsche Bahn that are also subject to the LkSG publish their own policy statements on their respective websites.
