Social action
We gave high priority to our actions in the fields of education, health and social inclusion. This choice took into account socio-economic analyses, the desires of the communities themselves and areas where we believe our experience and potential contribution might be most effective.
In the preparation of these activities, we formed partnerships with various players, including project developers and financial experts, who contributed their experience as well. In some projects, we played a smaller role. The results, therefore, are not derived only from the activities of Aracruz, but from the efforts of the different players, with whom the credit should be shared.
These activities were concentrated in the states where the Company has most of its forestry operations and industrial activities, and totaled US$5 million in 2004.
These activities were concentrated in the states where the Company has most of its forestry operations and industrial activities, and totaled US$5 million in 2004.
Although the activities are significant, this does not mean that all of the needs of the communities in the regions where the Company is operating are being met. These communities suffer from the structural problems of the Brazilian economy, such as the lack of employment opportunities and insufficient assistance from the public sector in basic areas such as health and education. No matter how great the efforts of the private sector or how broad the social vision of an individual company, their actions are not a substitute for the state in overcoming structural problems. For this to occur it is necessary, among other factors, to foster greater communication between the public sector, NGOs, and other segments of society. Aracruz is open to efforts of this nature.
Read more on our Sustainability Report.
