This book describes developments, changes, the emergence of new knowledge and insights, and their implementation in the economy and society. Some of these developments I have influenced over the past decades, within the range of my possibilities. As a result, all of the changes that have taken place have always been for the benefit of the community.
Without countless conversations with professionals within Nestlé, about science and politics, in government and non-governmental organizations and with customers and suppliers, new ideas could hardly have taken shape which have led and continue to lead to concrete solutions.
I therefore thank all those with whom I have talked and discussed, and who made suggestions or formulated expectations and criticism. I thank you for allowing me to listen and that you listened to me. By comparing ideas new impetuses are given, and new images formed of a realistic and better future. To this extent, this book should be a spur to further fruitful dialogue in which the maximum number of people should participate.