The Brückner Group has published its latest sustainability report. The voluntary report provides a comprehensive overview of environmental, social and governance (ESG) activities in the 2023 fiscal year.
The globally active group of companies has been nominated for the German Sustainability Award in the ‘Company’ category for the second time in a row this year. Last year, the specialist business magazine “Wirtschaftswoche” recognised the Group as one of Germany's most sustainable medium-sized companies. Among other things, the sustainability report highlights how the Brückner Group's innovative packaging technologies and energy-efficient machine solutions contribute to environmental protection, particularly in the area of the circular economy.
Sustainable technologies for a greener future
The Brückner Group continuously strives for market and technology leadership in future-orientated niches. The focus is on the sustainable manufacture of plastic products and packaging solutions. The Group's technological leadership is based on continuous research and development in five “Innovation Centers" and "Material R&D Centers" worldwide. These centers develop and test innovative solutions in the areas of plastics, natural fibres, recycled and bio-based materials, as well as environmentally friendly technologies for various industries.
The Brückner Group's sustainability report presents forward-looking initiatives and technologies that create the basis for a sustainable packaging industry: closed material cycles and recyclable packaging films reduce waste and increase resource efficiency. For example, a recent research result shows a 20% reduction in the CO₂ footprint when using 30% recyclate.
“Our commitment to sustainability guides us in these turbulent times by reviewing our actions on a daily basis, improving our environmental footprint and achieving concrete improvements along the entire value chain through innovation, especially for the packaging industry. We are proud to make a decisive contribution with our plant and machine solutions,” Dr Axel von Wiedersperg, CEO of the Brückner Group and Maximilian Schneider, CFO of the Brückner Group, commented.
By introducing ESG software, the Group is recording its own CO₂ emissions and other non-financial key figures, resulting in a more comprehensive database for 2023. In addition, digital platforms and AI-based solutions optimise production processes, increase efficiency and reduce the material consumption of customer companies.
Ecological site management and resource conservation
The Brückner Group pays particular attention to ecologically responsible site management. Solar power is already being produced at four locations, covering up to 70% of daily electricity requirements in some cases. Group-wide natural gas consumption was reduced by 8% between 2022 and 2023. In addition, the locations utilise or recycle a high proportion of the waste generated on site: 61% without incineration, 97% including incineration, only 3% remains as landfill waste. In addition, the large company sites generously expanded their infrastructure for charging electric cars. Relevant management systems support the sustainability efforts. For example, the Kiefel site in Freilassing already has all the relevant sustainability certifications: ISO 50001, ISO 14001 and ISO 45001.
Climate protection
The Brückner Group has set itself ambitious climate targets: a 50% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030 and achieving net zero by 2050. The company defined these targets in line with the requirements of the Science Based Targets initiative, to which the Group has officially committed. The targets are “Managed Targets,” which are achieved through specific measures for each company. These include the expansion of photovoltaic capacities and the purchase of certified green energy. Another focus is on the energy efficiency of the machines and systems produced, which will have a positive impact on future Scope 3 emissions.
Corporate social responsibility
The Brückner Group demonstrates social responsibility through its commitment to employees and society as well as respect for human rights along the supply chain. It supports charitable organisations, associations and educational institutions with donations and scholarships.
“Our latest sustainability report not only shows our progress and achievements in the area of sustainable packaging technologies and environmental protection but also emphasises our ongoing commitment to responsible corporate governance,” Adina Mittmannsgruber, Lead Group Sustainability, explains. “Our initiatives and innovations reflect our endeavours to make a positive impact, both environmentally and socially. This report provides transparency for our stakeholders and shows that we, as the market leader, are setting the standards for a sustainable future.”
The report follows the standards of the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) and provides an initial insight into future reporting obligations in accordance with the CSRD/ESRS.
From 2025, this information will be integrated in the Group Annual Report. The full sustainability report is available for download here. The information and illustrations contained therein are authorised for publication. If you have any questions, please contact Thomas Herrmann, Head Group Branding & Communications or Adina Mittmannsgruber, Lead Group Sustainability at sustainability@brueckner.com.
