The Air Liquide Foundation
mobilized against Covid-19
In response to the health crisis, the Air Liquide Foundation launched its Covid-19 initiative as early as March 2020. More than 2 million euros have been allocated over two years, with a double objective: to support scientific research projects and to reinforce the help given to associations working with the people most vulnerable to Covid-19.
Accelerating Covid-19 research
The Air Liquide Foundation has a long record of supporting scientific research into respiratory disease. It was therefore able to spring into action from the start of the health crisis by contacting its scientific partners to determine their needs and offer emergency aid. To respond to the urgency of the situation, the Foundation has held an increased number of project selection committee meetings via video-conference, while maintaining high quality standards. It has been able to provide support to ten research projects seeking to better understand the virus and its transmission modes, improving its treatment and determining its long term effects on lungs.
Supporting those most vulnerable to Covid-19
The Foundation has also approved support to 21 social emergency projects, undertaken by partner associations on all continents. By providing food support or protection equipment, by reconnecting people and raising awareness of the coronavirus and protective measures, these projects help isolated individuals particularly exposed to the Covid-19 virus and to its social and economic consequences.
Getting shareholders involved
A distinctive feature of the Foundation is that it includes a representative from the Shareholders’ Communication Committee (SCC) in its project selection committee. This inclusive approach ensures a different point of view when considering applications and therefore promotes funding for a diverse range of projects. This also highlights how important it is to Air Liquide to involve its shareholders in the activities of the Group, and demonstrates the key role shareholders can play.
FOR MORE INFORMATION…
Watch the video on your Stock & Share webzine in which Professor Pierre Carli, doctor, Medical Director of the SAMU - medical emergency service - of Paris and voluntary Director of the Air Liquide Foundation, and Bruno Rostaing-Capaillan, former member of the SCC and shareholder representative in the project selection committee, share their view on the Foundation’s actions during the pandemic.