One of the greatest challenges of our time is the responsible use of the resources available to us. They are limited, unevenly distributed and essential to our economy. Acting sustainably is therefore essential to ensure that future generations have a future worth living. From an environmental, social and economic perspective, nothing less than the future of all of us is at stake – each and every one of us will be directly or indirectly affected by climate change.
With around 380 locations in more than 30 countries, we bear a special responsibility as one of the leading mill-independent materials distributors and service providers in the world. That's why we at thyssenkrupp Materials Services are setting a good example. While the European Union has committed itself to climate neutrality by 2050, we will achieve this goal by as early as 2030. To achieve this, we have firmly anchored sustainability in all its facets in our corporate strategy.
Our approach goes beyond the internationally recognized ESG standards. With our BEYOND sustainability strategy, we have complemented these guidelines with aspects that are of central importance to us and the success of our business. In this way, we are pursuing our ambition to be a leader in sustainability. We do this by providing our customers with products and services that are proven to reduce carbon emissions and increase efficiency. In addition, social sustainability is an integral part of our corporate identity: We promote international educational offerings, diversity and equal opportunity, and are committed to being a responsible member of the global community.
The core element on the road to climate neutrality is a clearly defined timeframe – our CO2 roadmap. We are already achieving our goal 20 years earlier than originally planned because we are relying on a wide range of measures.
We reduce the amount of energy required without imposing restrictions. For example, through the digitalization of supply chains or energy-efficient, sustainable buildings.
We replace components to realize the full potential of energy-saving opportunities. Among other things, by replacing our truck fleet or promoting energy self-sufficiency.
We eliminate components that are incompatible with our goal of climate neutrality. For example, we obtain the energy we need exclusively from renewable sources.
"I believe that rethinking sustainable solutions will change the world as comprehensively as the industrial revolution did. As we move into this new world, transparency and efficiency will become even more important, and so will the digitization of supply chains. We need a good mix of experience and a willingness to question the tried and true in order to be prepared for the challenges of the coming years."
"In my view, an important component is that the basic concept and the goals of our sustainability strategy are supported by the entire workforce. The rethinking has already begun, but we must increasingly question our previous priorities and align our entire value chain accordingly. I think that the transformation we are currently shaping and driving forward is the opportunity of our time."