“With our efforts, we are demonstrating that change is possible, particularly when we work together. The important thing is that we continue to translate our goals into practical benefits for our customers, employees and the environment,” says Edwin Grönkvist, Global Sustainability Manager at Suzuki Garphyttan.
Every ton counts
The year has been marked by several important initiatives that are linked to both customer and business benefits. The use of a tool showing each product’s carbon footprint (PCF) is one of the ways to show responsibility. The customer can clearly see the environmental impact each ton of wire delivered. The tool makes it possible to calculate the entire life cycle of a product.
“A major challenge in terms of emissions is that the steel we buy accounts for the vast majority of our total climate impact. Together, we seek to identify solutions to reduce our carbon footprint without compromising the quality that our customers expect,” says Edwin.
Reliable transparency
Broadening the product portfolio to new segments and customers outside the automotive industry may place different demands on sustainability and transparency.
“Although EU requirements have changed and our company is no longer subject to the most stringent type of reporting, we have still chosen to report on our environmental performance in accordance with a voluntary standard. This means we are prepared even if the requirements change in the future. It allows us to show both our existing and new customers that we are a trusted partner at a time when the whole industry is changing. When we share our data, we help them succeed with their own climate objectives, which is appreciated,” says Edwin.
Towards new goals
The direction for the high level of ambition is stated in Suzuki Garphyttan’s sustainability strategy, which was updated during the year with new targets for the environment, social sustainability and governance (ESG).
“The strategy is also based on each plant setting local targets, but within a common structure. We use a digital tool to monitor and collect data. This makes it easy to see trends and share good examples between countries,” says the Global Sustainability Manager.
