Ecolab, Inc. engages in providing products and services in the field of water, hygiene, and energy. It operates through the following segments: Global Industrial, Global Institutional and Specialty, Global Energy and Life Science, and Other. The Global Industrial segment relates to water, food and beverage, paper, and downstream operating segments. The Global Institutional and Specialty segment refers to the institutional, specialty, and healthcare operating segments. The Global Healthcare and Life Sciences segment includes the healthcare and life sciences operations. The Other segment is involved in providing services to detect, eliminate and prevent pests. The company was founded by Merritt J. Osborn in 1923 and is headquartered in St. Paul, MN.