SCA, K-C, IP on World's Most Ethical Companies List

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SCA, Stockholm, Sweden, and International Paper, Memphis, Tenn., USA,, have again been named among the world's most ethical companies by the American Ethisphere Institute, New York, N.Y., USA. Kimberly-Clark, Dallas, Texas, was also on this year’s list. Ethisphere recognizes companies that go beyond the ordinary and demonstrate that business ethics are decisive for a company's brand and profitability.

This is IP’s sixth year in a row to be on the list, and the fifth straight year for SCA. Ethisphere has published the WME rankings for six consecutive years.

This year, several thousand companies were evaluated from more than 40 industries. The list of nominees for 2012 included a record of 145 companies that outperform their peer competitors in ethical business practices. A total of 40 companies are headquartered outside of the U.S.

The methodology used to develop WME rankings includes reviewing codes of ethics, litigation, and regulatory infraction histories, evaluating the investment in innovation and sustainable business practices, looking at activities designed to improve corporate citizenship, and studying nominations from senior executives, industry peers, suppliers, and customers.

"In all of our endeavors around the globe, from safety performance to environmental stewardship to running our businesses, our actions come down to one simple principle—doing the right things for the right reason. International Paper is proud to be recognized as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies for the sixth straight year," said John Faraci, chairman and CEO of International Paper.

Jan Johansson, president and CEO of SCA, said that "SCA's track record in ethical business practices and sustainability work is a business differentiator that strengthens our competitive advantage. Our ambitious work in this area makes us more attractive for customers, consumers, and investors, and also generates considerable savings. SCA puts sustainability on top of the agenda, and we are honored by Ethisphere's recognition of our achievements."

Tom Falk, chairman and CEO of Kimberly-Clark, said that "we are honored to be recognized for our ethical business practices. Creating a culture where our employees are committed to driving business results ethically and doing the right thing for our customers, our communities, and the environment contributes directly to the success of our company."

More information about the award is available online.