The broader picture The sphere of publicity extends beyond the market and its economic realities. Sto believes that any industry, and the building industry in particular, must open itself up to life's social, cultural and ecological dimensions if it is to continue  to function effectively on a sustained basis. And along with knowledge, it is also qualities such as commitment, creativity and curiosity which will decide just how viable a future lies ahead of us. Sto thus supports activities and talents in the areas of ecology, architecture, practical and academic training. Sto is involved in numerous ecological initiatives at national and international level and champions various cultural and educational causes. An example here is the "Architecture Prize for Plaster", which has been initiated together with the association of the German stucco trade, with the first competition to be held as a European event in 2006. Then there is the Sto Foundation, which was established to mark the company's 50th anniversary. The Sto Foundation supports particularly talented and committed young people from the painting and decorating and plastering trades or from the area of architecture or structural engineering who lack the financial means to attain the customary qualifications - either in the form of an apprenticeship or a course of study.