Friday, April 17, 2026
Henkel has announced a new set of sustainability targets for 2030. The move builds on its long-standing commitment to responsible business practices. It also reflects a strategic push to accelerate impact across its global value chain.
The company’s approach is comprehensive. Climate action, social equity, and responsible sourcing are all included. These priorities form the foundation of a new sustainability cycle.
Henkel’s leadership has emphasised the importance of this transition. The company has a history of aligning business performance with responsibility. This approach is being strengthened further.
Carsten Knobel, Chief Executive Officer, highlighted the need for clarity. A consistent stance is required in today’s volatile environment. Sustainable growth remains a central objective.
The new targets are ambitious. They are also designed to be practical. Focus has been placed on areas where measurable impact can be achieved.
A structured framework has been introduced. Sustainability is expected to be embedded into everyday decision-making. This applies across all regions and operations.
The company’s roadmap towards net-zero emissions remains a key focus. Henkel has committed to achieving net-zero by 2045. A detailed plan was defined in 2024.
This roadmap has been validated by the Science Based Targets initiative. It outlines clear steps to reduce emissions across operations and supply chains.
By 2030, Henkel aims to reduce absolute Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by 42 percent. These emissions relate to direct operations and energy use.
Scope 3 emissions will also be addressed. A reduction target of 30 percent has been set. These emissions originate from upstream and downstream activities.
Progress has already been reported. By 2025, emissions across all scopes were reduced by 29 percent compared to 2021 levels. This indicates steady advancement.
Operational improvements have contributed significantly. Collaboration with suppliers has also been strengthened. These efforts are supporting long-term goals.
Renewable energy adoption has increased. The company now sources 89 percent of its electricity from renewable sources globally. This marks a substantial shift.
Carbon-neutral production has been implemented at multiple sites. A total of 37 facilities worldwide have reached this milestone. Further expansion is expected.
The circular economy is another key pillar. Henkel is focusing on reducing waste and improving resource efficiency. Packaging plays a central role in this strategy.
Targets have been set for recycled material usage. By 2030, at least 35 percent of materials in consumer goods packaging will be recycled. The current level stands at 28 percent.
Packaging design is also being improved. The company aims for all packaging to be recyclable by 2030. Currently, 88 percent meets this criterion.
Innovation is supporting these efforts. Henkel’s Adhesive Technologies division is developing specialised solutions. These are designed to enhance packaging recyclability.
Dedicated testing facilities have been established. Packaging Recyclabs operate in Düsseldorf and Shanghai. These centres support product development and validation.
Social responsibility is another major focus. Henkel is working to advance equity across its workforce. Equal opportunity and inclusion remain priorities.
The company has set a target for gender balance in management. By 2030, each gender is expected to represent more than 45 percent.
Progress has already been made. By the end of 2025, women held over 43 percent of management positions globally. This reflects measurable improvement.
Pay equity is also being addressed. Henkel aims to achieve global pay equality by 2030. Implementation will follow local regulations and regional conditions.
Supply chain sustainability is being strengthened. The company is increasing collaboration with its partners. Standards for environmental and social performance are being raised.
Suppliers are being systematically evaluated. Criteria include safety, health, environmental impact, and ethical business practices.
By 2030, 85 percent of suppliers are expected to meet Henkel’s sustainability requirements. This represents a significant expansion of current efforts.
Industry collaboration is playing a role. Initiatives such as Together for Sustainability support shared standards. Smaller suppliers are also being assisted through targeted programmes.
External recognition has reinforced Henkel’s progress. The company received an “A” rating in the 2025 CDP climate assessment. This marks a notable achievement.
Performance in EcoVadis ratings has also improved. Henkel was once again awarded Gold status. These recognitions highlight continued advancement.
The new targets reflect a long-term vision. Sustainability is being integrated across all business functions.
Short-term actions are being aligned with long-term objectives. Measurable outcomes are being prioritised.
Henkel’s strategy demonstrates a clear direction. Environmental, social, and economic factors are being addressed together.
The company’s legacy continues to influence its approach. Responsibility and innovation remain closely linked.
As global expectations evolve, companies are under increasing pressure. Transparent and actionable sustainability strategies are required.
Henkel’s updated targets position it to meet these expectations. The focus remains on delivering measurable impact.
The journey towards 2030 will require collaboration. Internal teams, suppliers, and partners will all play a role.
Through this integrated strategy, Henkel aims to drive sustainable value. The company is setting a benchmark for responsible industrial growth.
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Tags: carbon emission reduction, Henkel, Henkel sustainability targets, Net Zero Strategy, renewable energy industry, sustainable manufacturing, woodworking industry, woodworking UK
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