Sustainability in numbers
At Kärcher, we see the bigger picture. We rely on the strategic aims of several years for the entire corporate group, in order to realise our sustainability vision. We consistently monitor and measure the achievement of these targets.
Sustainability report according to GRI standard
Responsibility is an essential part of the corporate culture at Kärcher from the beginning – with sustainable company development focused on people and the environment. Our economic success is based on long-term strategies. This is also the case when it comes to sustainability.
This sustainability report contains Kärcher’s key figures, targets and activities. The report was produced in line with the standards of the current version of the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI).
STRATEGY 2025 MILESTONES
Zero Emissions
22 sites in 8 countries use green energy that has been generated in-house or procured externally.
Absolute carbon emissions were reduced by 16,660 tonnes compared to 2020 with simultaneous company growth.
Scope 3 emissions were analysed fully in 2023 for the first time, including CO₂ emissions of products in the use phase.
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
All paper-based packaging materials are made from at least 80% recycled paper.
68.8 tonnes of plastic in packaging was saved in 2023 through reduction and by switching from plastic to paper (e.g. polystyrene and bubble wrap).
1,986 tonnes of recycled materials were used in products with a recycled material content of up to 60% in 2023.
Social Hero
82% of all projects are focused on value preservation.
10.23 tonnes of waste were collected during Kärcher Cleanup Day in 19 subsidiaries in 2023.
16 monuments and buildings were cleaned as part of our cultural sponsorship in 2023.
CLIMATE PROTECTION & RESOURCES
Our cleaning machines are the result of a careful use of resources, such as raw materials, energy and water. We establish the basis for this with a production process that fully supports environmental and climate protection. Our specific focus is on reducing the use of virgin plastics, making packaging more environmentally friendly, promoting the use of renewable energies and reducing the carbon emissions we generate.
Energy intensity in TJ per million € of turnover
Greenhouse gas intensity in t CO₂ per million € of turnover
Water intensity in m3 per million € of turnover
Share of recycled waste in %
Waste types
80 %
proportion of recycled paper in paper-based sales packaging
50.000 boxes
from regranulate at the plant in Romania since 2022
> 40 products
in the detergent sector with eco-certification
26 tons
less plastic in packaging at the Ahorn Service Center
11%
of company vehicles are electric
> 1.900 tons
plastic recyclate used in products
Packaging that protects the product and the planet
High-quality packaging ensures our products reach customers safely. Here at Kärcher, however, it's not enough that our packaging just be strong – we believe it should also save resources and be sustainable. And we are working hard to ensure this is the case.
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