In its latest sustainability report for 2024, LEONHARD KURZ provides comprehensive insights into its sustainability activities along the entire value chain - from environmental and climate protection to working conditions and human rights - in a document spanning more than 70 pages. The world's leading expert in thin-film technology and surface finishing is thus demonstrating that entrepreneurial strength also means taking the initiative and assuming responsibility when it comes to sustainability.
Sustainable action is deeply rooted in KURZ. As a member of the UN Global Compact Network since 2021, the company is clearly committed to internationally recognized principles for a sustainable, responsible economy – across industries and globally. KURZ is also involved in numerous sustainability initiatives. Under the motto ‘be a green leader,’ KURZ summarizes its understanding of responsible business practices for people and the environment, addressing customers, partners, and employees alike.
Holistic approach to sustainability
"Sustainability is not a trend – it is part of our corporate identity. We are actively shaping change through the efficient use of resources and tangible benefits. Our sustainability activities are geared toward becoming the most sustainable company in the industry and thereby also helping our customers move forward," emphasizes Dr. Andreas Hirschfelder, CEO of KURZ. This message is reflected in measurable results throughout the sustainability report. KURZ invests tens of millions of dollars annually in more energy-efficient processes, its own photovoltaic systems and recycling technologies with the aim of continuously reducing CO2 emissions in order to be completely climate neutral by 2040.
In addition to ecological aspects, social responsibility is also part of the holistic approach. As a global corporation with more than 5,800 employees worldwide, KURZ positions itself as a value-driven family business. Fair and safe working conditions, a high level of tolerance, and strong international exchange are standard at its more than 50 locations. As a modern employer, KURZ promotes work-life balance with various flexible working time models and offers all employees comprehensive training opportunities.
Supply chains and global trade
Environmental management systems in accordance with ISO 14001, energy management in accordance with ISO 50001, and transparent supply chain audits in accordance with the German Supply Chain Act are also an integral part of the sustainability commitment at the sites in Fürth and Sulzbach-Rosenberg. KURZ also demands high sustainability standards from its suppliers of raw materials. To this end, KURZ has introduced a sustainability control system that evaluates all major suppliers according to clear criteria, some of which are carried out annually. KURZ manufactures worldwide according to uniformly high environmental standards.
Circular economy with RECOSYS® 2.0
In order to achieve its own climate targets in the long term together with partners and customers, KURZ relies in particular on its in-house recycling program RECOSYS® 2.0. This is a recycling and take-back system in which used PET carriers are converted into high-quality rPET recyclate. This reduces Scope 3 emissions generated during the disposal of transfer materials by up to 90%. The recycled material can be used as a new raw material, for example in packaging or in various industries. With RECOSYS® 2.0, KURZ is moving a step closer to a closed-loop recycling system and setting another milestone on the road to greater sustainability in the finishing industry.
Sustainable action is deeply rooted in KURZ. As a member of the UN Global Compact Network since 2021, the company is clearly committed to internationally recognized principles for a sustainable, responsible economy – across industries and globally. KURZ is also involved in numerous sustainability initiatives. Under the motto ‘be a green leader,’ KURZ summarizes its understanding of responsible business practices for people and the environment, addressing customers, partners, and employees alike.
Holistic approach to sustainability
"Sustainability is not a trend – it is part of our corporate identity. We are actively shaping change through the efficient use of resources and tangible benefits. Our sustainability activities are geared toward becoming the most sustainable company in the industry and thereby also helping our customers move forward," emphasizes Dr. Andreas Hirschfelder, CEO of KURZ. This message is reflected in measurable results throughout the sustainability report. KURZ invests tens of millions of dollars annually in more energy-efficient processes, its own photovoltaic systems and recycling technologies with the aim of continuously reducing CO2 emissions in order to be completely climate neutral by 2040.
In addition to ecological aspects, social responsibility is also part of the holistic approach. As a global corporation with more than 5,800 employees worldwide, KURZ positions itself as a value-driven family business. Fair and safe working conditions, a high level of tolerance, and strong international exchange are standard at its more than 50 locations. As a modern employer, KURZ promotes work-life balance with various flexible working time models and offers all employees comprehensive training opportunities.
Supply chains and global trade
Environmental management systems in accordance with ISO 14001, energy management in accordance with ISO 50001, and transparent supply chain audits in accordance with the German Supply Chain Act are also an integral part of the sustainability commitment at the sites in Fürth and Sulzbach-Rosenberg. KURZ also demands high sustainability standards from its suppliers of raw materials. To this end, KURZ has introduced a sustainability control system that evaluates all major suppliers according to clear criteria, some of which are carried out annually. KURZ manufactures worldwide according to uniformly high environmental standards.
Circular economy with RECOSYS® 2.0
In order to achieve its own climate targets in the long term together with partners and customers, KURZ relies in particular on its in-house recycling program RECOSYS® 2.0. This is a recycling and take-back system in which used PET carriers are converted into high-quality rPET recyclate. This reduces Scope 3 emissions generated during the disposal of transfer materials by up to 90%. The recycled material can be used as a new raw material, for example in packaging or in various industries. With RECOSYS® 2.0, KURZ is moving a step closer to a closed-loop recycling system and setting another milestone on the road to greater sustainability in the finishing industry.
