Teknos has published a non-financial information (NFI) report, which describes the company’s sustainability actions in 2020.
Coating manufacturer Teknos has publishes a non-financial report, which highlights the Group’s sustainability strategy and its ambition to become the most sustainable coating solutions provider in the industry.
To achieve this, Teknos is striving to create long-lasting products while increasing the use of sustainable raw materials and innovating non-conventional surface treatment solutions.
In 2020, the company launched a waterborne coating, HYDRO WAX, containing approximately 30% bio-based carbon. Additionally, Teknos focused on the development of barrier coatings for packaging industry with the goal to reduce plastic use in and enable better recyclability of packages.
“We live in the world where resources are getting intensifyingly scarce. We need to find solutions and protect the choices we make by building things and processes so that they last. This requires everyone to move towards more circular practices: aim for longer-lasting solutions and the utilization of sustainable raw materials. As a family-owned company continuity is integral to us and we aspire to leave a better world for future generations,” says Paula Salastie, CEO of Teknos Group.
Teknos is also committed in reducing hazardous content in its products. That’s why in 2020, the company lowered the proportion of volatile organic compounds (VOC) by 2% from the 2019 level – a downward trend that continued from previous years. Moreover, it has set a goal of phasing out the addition of methylisothiazolinone (MIT) in all products by the end of 2025 – a process that already started: Teknos used 64% less MIT in 2020 than in 2019.
Another highlight from 2020 was the introduction of BIORA AIR, an indoor air cleaning wall paint for better indoor air quality.
“Health and wellbeing are extremely important to us. We want to make living healthier by offering safe and certified products and innovating new solutions. Earlier we have developed for example antimicrobial coatings for more hygienic surfaces. Last year, we launched a paint with indoor air cleaning technology,” Paula explains. “Last year proved that we need to focus on not just the physical health and wellbeing with everyone, but also the mental wellbeing. At Teknos, we have created trainings and new ways of co-operating with each other. Everyone needs the connectivity. Even though exclusion and loneliness are not a new phenomenon in the urbanizing world, creating opportunities to meet and interact with distance has been emphasized with opportunities for doing so in a less formal manner”.
Working alongside customers
In 2020, Teknos also rolled out a consumer guide for responsible painting, which provides tips for minimizing and correct handling of painting process leftovers, with the aim of training customers to save energy on their painting line or processes, reduce paint waste and ensure the safe use of chemicals.
“Sustainability can only be achieved together. By working closely with our customers, suppliers, and other stakeholders, we can support them in reaching their sustainability goals and endeavours. Through partnering we utilize expertise from various fields to develop more sustainable solutions for the needs of different industries,” Paula explains.
An on-going effort
Teknos has set an ambitious goal for sustainability, and the company made good progress in 2020. However, not all the set goals were achieved. The development of sustainability culture continues.
“We acknowledge that bigger improvements are required in certain areas such as occupational safety and waste generation. Strategic emphasis will be placed especially on scarcity, security and climate change”, Paula summarizes.