Key Takeaways

• The Koehler Group continues its sustainability strategy amid challenging economic conditions, aiming for significant progress by 2030.
• Innovative products, such as recyclable flexible packaging paper, are being developed to reduce CO₂ emissions and enhance environmental transparency.
• The company is exceeding its training goals and investing in renewable energy while addressing economic challenges that affect high energy-consuming industries.

Sustainable Development Commitment

The Koehler Group’s latest sustainability report highlights its steadfast commitment to sustainable practices despite tough macroeconomic conditions. The company’s CEO, Kai Furler, emphasizes the critical role of cohesion and resolve in implementing a systematic sustainability strategy with transparent, measurable objectives aimed at 2030.

A significant focus for the reporting year was the creation of future-proof products. Koehler Paper has introduced flexible packaging paper as an alternative to plastic. These recyclable products not only help reduce CO₂ emissions but also enable customers to enhance their environmental impact. For the first time, the environmental footprints of products from the Oberkirch mill have been assessed, providing a comprehensive view of their lifecycle impacts.

The launch of the “Langer Wald” wind farm marks a continued expansion of the company’s renewable energy capabilities. Koehler aims to generate more energy from renewable sources than required for its production by 2030, with progress already reported at over 98% in 2025. The company’s climate objectives have been validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), ensuring their scientific integrity and effectiveness in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Improving efficiency has been a key focus, with technologies such as a heat recovery system at the Koehler Paper mill enhancing energy efficiency while minimizing emissions. The company also prioritizes sustainable sourcing, with all virgin fibers sourced from controlled and sustainable forestry.

Investment in personnel remains vital, as demonstrated by the exceeding of training rate targets and the provision of over 25 professional development hours per employee in 2025. Additionally, the establishment of a daycare center near the headquarters aims to foster better work-life balance for employees.

The report candidly addresses areas requiring improvement, notably those impacted by high industrial electricity costs, which hinder energy-intensive sectors. The Koehler Group is proactively addressing these challenges by expanding its renewable energy sources and advocating for stable political conditions that support Germany’s industrial competitiveness.

In summary, the Koehler Group’s sustainability report asserts that their commitment to sustainability is a continuous evolution rather than a short-term initiative. The company’s consistent efforts have earned it the EcoVadis platinum medal, placing it in the top 1% of rated companies globally.

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