Better Planet.
As part of our sustainability journey, we have been tracking the environmental footprint of our operations since 2008 and have been using this data to drive continuous improvement to reduce the impact of our operations and our products. We are committed to annual reporting on our progress and are pleased to share operational footprint metrics this year. Our Better Planet strategy is focused on five key areas.
- Share:
1. Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Reduction
- Net-zero scope 1 and 2 emissions
- 100% renewable electricity
2. Environmentally Friendly Products and Services
- Integration of Design for Environment methodology into new product development process
3. Water Stewardship
- Responsible and sustainable management of water at highest-risk facilities
4. Waste Reduction
- Net-zero waste to landfill across global operations
5. Education and Reporting
- Establish Kohler as the most environmentally friendly company in our industry
GHG Emissions Reduction and Climate Change
Climate change poses the single biggest risk to our lives and livelihoods. As a major manufacturer, curbing GHG and transitioning to renewable energy was not an option, it was a must. That’s why in 2008 we established goals to achieve net-zero scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2035. In 2021, despite higher production and sales, we saw a 10% decrease in net GHG emissions intensity (net emissions/revenue).
We achieved these decreases through carbon footprint reduction programs across our global manufacturing plants and increased use of renewable energy sources:
- reduced raw material and energy use in manufacturing while reducing scrap
- resolved steam, air, and gas leaks in our Spartanburg operations which reduced energy loss
- replaced thermoforming equipment in Shanghai, increased kiln load in Foshan and waste utilization in Shenyang
- consolidated furnaces in Wisconsin Cast Iron
- achieved 100% of electricity from renewable sources such as wind and solar in U.S. and Canada operations and 51% of global operations
Through our Design for Environment (DfE) methodology, we aim to reduce our environmental impacts through all stages of the product life cycle, with a specific focus on reducing GHG emissions, water and waste, and material health.
- By the end of 2021, 100% of new product development projects for KOHLER®, STERLING®, and Mira used the DfE process.
- Kohler Power Systems North America utilized DfE for its mechanical engineering products.
As a result of these efforts, Kohler was recognized as a SmartWay high performer by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) based on its significant shipping and freight efficiencies that merit special attention, including reductions in transportation-related emissions. Kohler was also ranked 45th in the EPA’s Green Power Partnership list of largest consumers of renewable power.
