As a family-run business, Progroup thinks in terms of cycles that extend beyond individual financial years – and this also applies to sustainability. The sustainability report, which has now been published, highlights progress made towards key objectives whilst also transparently identifying new challenges.
“We are very well positioned strategically, in terms of our workforce and financially to successfully overcome a wide range of challenges. This stability is no coincidence, but the result of consistent business decisions taken over many years – decisions that ensure we retain the flexibility to act even in economically challenging times. That is why we can continue to pursue our sustainability goals with determination,” explains CEO Maximilian Heindl.
Progress in material efficiency
Progroup has reduced the proportion of kraftliner in its products from an average of 11.4 per cent to 10.9 per cent, bringing it close to the target set for 2025 of a reduction to 10.6 per cent. In terms of average basis weight, the target set for 2030 has already been exceeded, with a reduction of 6.2 per cent compared with the base year of 2012.
CO₂e emissions have risen due to commissioning of the new power plant
After several years of steady decline, specific CO₂e emissions in Scopes 1 and 2 were once again above the previous year’s level. This is largely due to the commissioning of the PPO2 waste-to-energy plant at the Sandersdorf-Brehna site. As PPO2 produces neither paper nor corrugated board – against which the resulting emissions could be offset – these emissions have a significant statistical impact. Nevertheless, the plant remains a valuable component of the circular economy at the site. With the transition to normal operation, the auxiliary firing with natural gas required during the start-up phase is also largely no longer necessary – Progroup therefore expects this to make a significant contribution to reducing the consumption of fossil fuels in the medium term.
Responsibility towards employees and the local community
Sustainable growth is only possible with committed, well-trained employees. Progroup therefore invests in attractive jobs, further training and long-term career prospects.
At all its sites, Progroup works in partnership with regional organisations and supports charitable projects – particularly those aimed at children and young people.
An optimistic outlook
With its robust business model, a forward-looking strategic direction and the entrepreneurial drive that characterises this family-run business, Progroup believes it is well-positioned to continue driving forward its sustainability goals.
The full report containing all the company’s facts and figures is available here: https://www.progroup.ag/en/sustainability