Henkel unveiled mid-term sustainability targets for 2030. The company is taking a decisive step to accelerate impact across its entire value chain. By adopting a holistic strategy that integrates climate action, equity, and sustainable supply chains, Henkel is entering a new phase of purpose-driven growth.
CEO Carsten Knobel emphasized that responsible business practices and strong performance have always gone hand in hand. He added that, in today’s volatile environment, taking a clear stance on sustainability is more critical than ever.
A Clear Framework for Sustainable Growth
At the core of Henkel’s strategy are three key priorities designed to deliver measurable impact. As Sylvie Nicol noted, the new targets provide a practical and actionable framework to embed sustainability into everyday decision-making across global operations. This approach ensures that sustainability is not just a goal but a business imperative.
Accelerating Toward Net-Zero Emissions
Henkel remains firmly committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2045. The company’s roadmap, validated by the Science Based Targets initiative, outlines clear milestones to reduce its carbon footprint. By 2030, Henkel aims to cut absolute Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by 42% (vs. 2021) and reduce Scope 3 emissions by 30% across its value chain. The company has already made significant progress. By 2025, Henkel reduced combined emissions by 29% compared to 2021 levels. In parallel, it achieved carbon-neutral production at 37 sites and increased its global renewable electricity usage to 89%. These gains highlight strong operational improvements and deeper collaboration with suppliers.
Driving the Circular Economy Agenda
In addition to climate action, Henkel is strengthening its commitment to a circular economy. The company is actively increasing the use of recycled materials and improving packaging design. By 2030, Henkel targets at least 35% recycled content in consumer goods packaging (up from 28%) and 100% of packaging to be designed for recycling (currently at 88%), Furthermore, Henkel is advancing recyclable packaging solutions through its Adhesive Technologies division. These innovations are tested at dedicated “Packaging Recyclabs” located in Düsseldorf and Shanghai, ensuring practical and scalable solutions for customers.
Advancing Equity and Inclusion Worldwide
Henkel is also prioritizing social sustainability by fostering an inclusive workplace. The company aims to achieve global gender balance in management roles by 2030, ensuring each gender represents over 45% across all levels. By 2025, women already held more than 43% of management positions. In addition, Henkel is working toward achieving global pay equity, reinforcing its commitment to fairness and equal opportunity.
Strengthening Sustainable Supply Chains
As per the press release, recognizing the importance of collaboration, Henkel is intensifying efforts to build more sustainable supply chains. The company rigorously evaluates suppliers based on safety, environmental performance, social responsibility, and ethical practices. By 2030, Henkel expects 85% of its suppliers to meet its sustainability standards. Initiatives such as Together for Sustainability (TfS), along with targeted support for small and medium-sized enterprises, will play a key role in achieving this goal.
Recognition from Global Sustainability Ratings
Henkel’s progress continues to gain international recognition. In 2025, the company earned an “A” rating in climate performance from CDP for the first time. Additionally, it retained its Gold rating from EcoVadis, reflecting consistent improvements in its sustainability performance.
A Future-Ready Sustainability Strategy
Overall, Henkel’s 2030 targets underscore its commitment to long-term, sustainable value creation. By combining climate action, circular economy principles, social equity, and responsible sourcing, the company is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable industrial transformation.
