As a major energy operator, Total must contribute to the development of our host countries. Going above and beyond our contractual obligations, we ensure that our operations create value and opportunities by supporting employment, training and the local industrial fabric.
A comprehensive and integrated approach to local economic development
Our ambition is to take action and be recognized as a lasting partner in the social and economic development of the communities and regions where we operate. To fulfill this ambition, we have created a comprehensive and integrated approach to local economic development called In-Country Value. The approach is founded on dialogue with our stakeholders and it enables us to establish development priorities together and create long-term synergies.
Our local economic development policy is focused on three main areas:
- Training and hiring of local staff.
- Purchasing local goods and services.
- Developing infrastructure.
Driven by this ambition, we are strengthening the local socio-economic base, furthering the development of industrial capacity and facilitating skills transfer.
Encouraging entrepreneurial spirit and SMEs
Contributing to local economic development is also about providing the communities around us with the means to shape and manage their development independently and based on their own priorities.
That's why we're focusing our efforts on the development of the industrial base and SMEs:
- In France, Total Développement Régional offers financial support for new businesses.
- Internationally, we support entrepreneurs in creating or developing their business plans through coaching programs and microcredit lending.
Helping to strengthen local job markets
To contribute to local economic development in a responsible way, it is important to be involved throughout the life cycle of industrial projects. As a responsible company, we anticipate our own industrial transformations and their related impacts. When one of our sites has to transform to adapt to the market, we offer guidance and support to partner companies to preserve local jobs, thereby helping to strengthen the economic and industrial fabric of the local job market.
We work closely with other local players, including economic development organizations and chambers of commerce and industry.