KHS Group accelerates carbon emission cuts with Science-Based Targets initiative validation

GERMANY – The KHS Group has taken a significant step forward in its climate protection strategy by validating its emissions reduction targets by the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi).

This confirmation marks a pivotal moment for the packaging and bottling systems manufacturer, which is intensifying its commitment to sustainability.

Aligned with the broader climate goals of parent company Salzgitter AG, KHS has pledged to cut its direct and indirect carbon emissions (Scope 1 and 2) by 36% by 2028.

It also plans to slash emissions across its entire value chain (Scope 3) by 20%. “Our responsibility goes beyond our production plants.

We supply our customers with holistic solutions that measurably improve their climate footprint,” said Kai Acker, CEO of KHS GmbH.

The transition to renewable energy is at the heart of KHS’s emission reduction efforts. All German production facilities now operate entirely on green electricity, and infrastructure enhancements such as waste heat recovery, energy-efficient lighting, and smart building automation are already in place.

For example, the Dortmund headquarters has adopted sensor-controlled LED systems that significantly reduce electricity usage.

The company is also phasing out fossil fuels in favour of renewable alternatives and developing internal heating networks at its Dortmund and Worms plants to eliminate dependence on gas and oil.

Photovoltaic systems have been installed at several German sites, and more are planned for international locations.

Additionally, KHS is converting its vehicle fleet to electric models, further contributing to its carbon reduction agenda.

Climate-friendly innovation

Beyond internal operations, KHS is equipping its customers with tools to reduce their environmental impact.

For instance, its new generation of InnoPET Blomax stretch blow molders features a Double Gate heating system that cuts energy use by up to 40% compared to conventional systems.

Other sustainability-driven innovations include the Innopas SX pasteurizer, which improves water efficiency through enhanced heat recovery, and the Bottles & Shapes™ service, which helps customers design ultra-light PET bottles to minimize material usage.

In the long term, KHS and Salzgitter AG aim to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, with Scope 1 and 2 targets potentially being met as early as 2045.

“The next few years are key to us firmly staying the course we’ve embarked on and becoming climate-neutral in production in the long term,” Acker noted. “I’m convinced that we’ll meet our ambitious climate goals.”

As sustainability becomes an industry imperative, KHS is positioning itself as a responsible manufacturer and a partner in climate action for beverage producers worldwide.

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