AMSTERDAM – The Dutch paints and coatings multinational AkzoNobel says all of its North America locations are now operating on 100% renewable electricity, a big push for the company’s ambition to halve carbon emissions worldwide by 2030, compared to 2018.
AkzoNobel’s transition to 100% renewable electricity became a fact in Europe at the outset of 2022. “We’ve aligned our sustainability ambitions with the Paris (climate) agreement, which aims to limit global warming and ensure that global temperature rise doesn’t exceed 1.5˚C above pre-industrial levels,” says Wijnand Bruinsma, AkzoNobel’s Director of Sustainability.
“As the first paints and coatings company to also set science-based sustainability targets, we’re determined to fulfill our ambitions. This achievement in North America is another big step in the right direction.”
The transition to 100% renewable electricity in North America includes manufacturing sites, offices, warehouses and research and development facilities.
With a regional headquarters in Nashville, Tennessee, AkzoNobel’s North American operations include 3,200 employees at more than 30 manufacturing sites, technology labs and business offices.
AkzoNobel says it is nudging companies it deals with to follow suit. Says Bruinsma, “We’re engaging with our suppliers and continue to develop sustainable solutions that help our customers reduce their carbon footprint.”
AkzoNobel is moving to 100% renewable electricity globally through self-generated electricity from solar panels and by purchasing renewable electricity with certificates of origin.
AkzoNobel markets paints and coatings in more than 150 countries. Its paints include the Dulux, International, Sikkens, Awlgrip and Interpon brands.
