On the way to net zero
Our climate strategy includes three different steps. We measure, we reduce, and we only compensate for the remaining emissions as a secondary tactic. In 2024, our climate targets were validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). They are in accord with the Paris Agreement’s global warming target of 1.5°C and include the entire value creation chain: our measures address both our own sites and our supply chain.
"We are pursuing a climate protection strategy that is the most ambitious in our sector. That’s because we are convinced that sustainability is of key significance to the future of our company.”
Michael Braig, CEO Finzelberg
Climate protection
Where do we start?
Measure
Once every year since 2022, the nature network has calculated its CO2e footprint in accordance with the internationally recognized Greenhouse Gas Protocol. The findings are checked and verified by certification body TÜV Rheinland. This external, independent verification ensures that the data are correct, plausible and complete.
Prevent/reduce
Our top priority is to prevent greenhouse gases being emitted in the first place. For instance, we avoid business trips whenever digital communication suffices. One decisive factor for successful reduction is the group-wide Energy Management system, which we use to record consumption data and derive targeted measures to improve efficiency. These include cogeneration of heat and power, heat recovery, insulation, and repairing leaks.
Compensate
Since 2025, we have voluntarily compensated for only those emissions that we are not able to avoid or reduce. To do so, we have selected a climate protection project certified by the Verified Carbon Standard (VCS).
What we have already achieved
Biomass heating plant
Several years ago we introduced an energy management system at our German sites, which helps us to find ways of saving energy and to implement them effectively.
Green electricity
In 2020, our German sites switched entirely to certified green electricity.
CO2e reduction
From 2020 to 2025, we reduced our CO2e emissions by more than half (-55%) through our own efforts.
Energy Scouts
We encourage our trainees to become Energy Scouts. These young individuals contribute fresh perspectives, identify ways to use energy and resources more efficiently, and actively shape sustainable practices in daily working life.
