The Asahi Foundation for Chemical Industry Promotion was established in 1933 in commemoration of the Company's 25th anniversary. It primarily provided research assistance in applied chemistry. It was renamed the Asahi Glass Foundation for Industrial Technology, and continued assistance activities for more than half a century. In 1990, the name was changed again to the Asahi Glass Foundation, and its public welfare activities were expanded.

With the name change in 1990, the Foundation increased its basic funds to expand research assistance and start an awards program - the Blue Planet Prize - to recognize contributions to environmental issues. The Foundation strives to help create a society in which all individuals can enjoy true welfare and comfort.

Funds disbursed for research assistance totaled 5.6 billion and included some 5,150 themes through fiscal 2000. Research assistance to foreign universities began years earlier. Assistance projects to Chulalongkorn University in Thailand and the Institute Technology of Bandung in Indonesia began in 1982 and 1988, respectively. Both programs continue today.

A grant program for comprehensive research began in 1990 under the theme "global environment." This program focuses on interdisciplinary integration and internationalization. The Blue Planet Prize is an annual award given to recognize individuals and organizations that have made major contributions to solving global environmental problems. The Foundation wishes to express its appreciation for the achievements of the laureates, as well as to encourage humankind's search for solutions to environmental issues throughout the world.

The Asahi Glass Foundation