Henkel makes further progress across all areas of its sustainability strategy

• Climate action: reduction of CO₂ emissions in production per ton of product by 64 percent (base year: 2017)
• Circular economy: use of recycled plastic in consumer goods packaging rises to 25 percent
• Equal opportunities: significantly more employees take parental leave in 2024; share of women in management climbs to 42 percent
• Fair working conditions: new additional assessment introduced to ensure living wages worldwide
• Governance: first sustainability report applying all content requirements of the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS)

• Click here to learn more about Henkel.

Henkel has published its 2024 Sustainability Report, showcasing significant advancements in climate protection, circular economy, and social responsibility.

The report aligns with the European Union’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS).

“We have made great progress and delivered tangible sustainability improvements over the past year,” said Carsten Knobel, CEO of Henkel.

“Despite challenges, we remain committed to a more sustainable world, as reflected in our net-zero roadmap to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 90% by 2045.”

Henkel South Africa’s Sustainability Contribution

As part of Henkel’s global sustainability strategy, Henkel South Africa has made major strides in reducing its environmental footprint:

• The newly inaugurated solar farm supplies over 70% of the energy required for Henkel SA’s main plant operations, reducing reliance on non-renewable energy sources.
• The facility contributes to Henkel’s global renewable energy target, which saw an increase in renewable energy use to 47% by the end of 2024.
• Henkel’s climate targets include reducing Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions by 42% and Scope 3 GHG emissions by 30% by 2030 (compared to 2021). By the end of 2024, Henkel had already cut Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions by 20%.

Climate Protection and Circular Economy

Henkel reduced CO2 emissions in production per ton of product by 64% (compared to 2017) and increased the share of recycled plastic in consumer goods packaging to 25%.

By the end of 2024, 89% of Henkel’s consumer packaging was recyclable, with a goal to achieve 100% recyclable packaging.

In Europe, Henkel increased post-consumer recyclate in detergent and hair care packaging to at least 50%, while in North America, Dial liquid hand soap packaging now uses 100% recycled plastic.

The Technomelt adhesive brand, used in food packaging, consists of at least 49% bio-based raw materials, reducing energy consumption during application.

Equal Opportunities and Fair Working Conditions

Henkel introduced a global gender-neutral parental leave policy, offering at least eight weeks of fully paid leave.

This initiative led to a 30% increase in employees taking parental leave.

Women in management roles rose to 42%.

Additionally, an annual assessment ensures wages align with local living wage benchmarks.

Recognition for Sustainability Performance

Henkel received the Gold Medal from ESG rating agency EcoVadis, ranking in the top 5% of companies evaluated.

Morningstar Sustainalytics recognized Henkel as a Top-Rated Company, and Corporate Knights included Henkel in its 2025 Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations ranking.

Click here to learn more about Henkel.