Koehler Group Publicly Reveals Performance on Sustainability Goals for the First Time
Koehler Group Achieves Sustainability Milestones in 2024
The Koehler Group, a leading player in the flexible packaging papers industry, expanded its portfolio in 2024 while making significant strides in sustainability. The company's commitment to environmental responsibility, resource efficiency, and social responsibility was evident in numerous projects it undertook during the year.
In a notable achievement, Koehler converted its cogeneration plant in Oberkirch, Germany, from black coal to biomass. This shift is projected to reduce direct fossil CO2 emissions by approximately 150,000 metric tonnes annually. The company's focus on renewable energy was already evident, with around 75% of its heat demand and 85% of its electricity demand for paper production coming from renewable sources in 2024. Koehler aims to generate more renewable energy than needed for its operations by 2030.
These efforts earned Koehler a platinum medal from the sustainability rating platform EcoVadis in 2024, with a score of 90 out of 100. This score places Koehler among the top one percent of companies globally rated in its industry for sustainability, validating its strategic decisions and encouraging continued efforts towards its ambitious sustainability objectives.
Transparency and measurability are key to Koehler's approach to sustainability. The company has a clear roadmap and regular status checks on sustainability actions, reflecting that sustainability is deeply embedded in its corporate culture and long-term strategy.
The Koehler Group consistently relies on sustainable forestry and controlled sources for fresh fibers. It also prioritises environmentally friendly logistics, preferring inland waterway transport for pulp. This choice, besides being cost-effective, is a CO2-saving alternative to truck transport.
In other news, the company's CEO, Kai Furler, reiterated that sustainability is deeply rooted in the company's identity and is not just a buzzword or a necessary evil. This commitment is also reflected in the Koehler Group's initiatives to improve the compatibility of family and career, such as the construction of an in-house Gretel Furler daycare center in Oberkirch.
The Koehler Group's sustainability report for the 2024 reporting year documents the progress status of its sustainability goals, which are to be achieved by 2030. The report also provides insights into the recyclability of the Koehler Group's papers, including innovative thermal paper Blue4est® in corrugated base papers.
In 2024, the Koehler Group's training quota was 4.8%, exceeding the target value of 2030. The new shoe press on paper machine 4 saves up to 15% of steam in the drying phase and valuable energy due to mechanically pressing more water out of the paper web.
The EcoVadis award confirms the Koehler Group's course on sustainability and serves as a challenge to continue pursuing ambitious sustainability goals consistently. The company's commitment to sustainability is not just a fleeting trend, but a long-term commitment to a greener future.
- The Koehler Group's focus on renewable energy was evident, with around 75% of its heat demand and 85% of its electricity demand for paper production coming from renewable sources in 2024.
- Koehler aims to generate more renewable energy than needed for its operations by 2030.
- These efforts earned Koehler a platinum medal from the sustainability rating platform EcoVadis in 2024, with a score of 90 out of 100.
- The Koehler Group's commitment to sustainability is not just a fleeting trend, but a long-term commitment to a greener future.
