Methanex Chile is strongly involved in activities that contribute to improving the quality of life within the communities in which it operates. This year, Methanex partnered with ENAP, the Chilean government and the community to launch a new co-operative social program called Quiero Mi Barrio (I love my neighbourhood).

The program focuses on activities in four areas: culture, environment, security and social participation. More than 190 families living in the district of Ríos Patagónicos will benefit from the program. Some of the planned projects that Methanex will be involved with include the construction of a community centre, restoration of the Liau-Liau River and programs geared to improving housing and street life.

One of the first joint initiatives, where employees participated as volunteers, was the Punta Arenas Winter Carnival. Young boys and girls were trained in different circus arts and had the opportunity to perform at the carnival. The goal was to encourage youth at risk to better integrate with their community, using art as a vehicle for change. Employees and neighbours of the district integrated to perform at the closing ceremonies of this event, winning second place in the choreography category.

Methanex, ENAP and the government envision this program as a successful example of how collaboration between private and public organizations can help improve the quality of life for all Chileans.

Methanex’s commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility was honoured this year as Chile received recognition for the lowest occupational accident and risk rates for the last three years (2004 to 2006) among companies with the same category of risk. The Honour Award was presented by the Asociación Chilena de Sequridad (ACHS).

Community Advisory Panel (CAP)

For the last eight years, Methanex Chile's Community Advisory Panel (CAP) has assisted company management to communicate with the community of Magallanes. The CAP consists of ten local members of the community and three Methanex representatives. The CAP has played a key role in Methanex's successful integration into the Magallanes community.

Each year Methanex, with the support of the CAP, hosts an Open House for 800 to 1,000 members of the community. The Open House is an wonderful opportunity for members of the community to learn about the company and the ethics and principles of Responsible Care. The next Methanex Open House in Magallanes is scheduled for early 2007.