Every year on June 5, the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) calls for World Environment Day, reminding us how crucial the protection of our natural resources is for a livable future. The aim is to raise global awareness of responsible resource use and to develop solutions for conserving them [1, 2].
The so-called Earth Overshoot Day vividly illustrates the finite nature of our planet’s resources. It marks the date each year when humanity has used up all the natural resources the Earth can regenerate in that year [3]. This day moves forward in the calendar every year – a clear signal that we must treat our resources with greater care. That is why the HARTMANN GROUP works hand in hand to make a positive contribution to our environment and the climate. We are keenly aware of our responsibility for sustainability and contribute to it through a wide range of initiatives.
Under the guiding principle “Road to Zero,” the HARTMANN GROUP has committed to continuously reducing its greenhouse gas emissions and achieving net zero by 2050. A major milestone on this path is the commissioning of the new biomass plant at the Wolfstein production site, which has been making a significant contribution to the site’s decarbonization since this year. At the same time, we are increasingly switching our international production sites to electricity from renewable sources and investing specifically in energy efficiency. An example is the complete conversion to LED lighting at our Herbrechtingen plant, which saves around 16,600 kWh of energy annually. When it comes to business travel, we also rely on compensation through Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) to enable climate-neutral flying.
Through these and other measures, HARTMANN succeeds year after year in reducing CO₂ emissions and establishing climate-friendly infrastructure and processes.
Since 2020, HARTMANN has aligned its product development with the goal of creating value for customers in five categories: clinical, operational, economic, patient-related, and environmental. Within this framework, each business segment takes targeted action to develop more sustainable products and solutions.
In the environmental category, the focus lies on identifying and managing measures that reduce environmental impact. The objective is to measurably improve healthcare professionals’ performance and optimize patient outcomes through the responsible use of HARTMANN products and solutions. The environmental dimension particularly targets improvements in energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and the use of raw materials for products and packaging.
HARTMANN develops solutions that help minimize environmental impact.
The biodegradable Peeling Pad by CMC Consumer Medical Care GmbH is 100% biodegradable, making an important contribution to reducing microplastic pollution. This innovation was honored with the Biopolymer Innovation Award 2025.
By optimizing the packaging of Peha® surgical products, plastic use was reduced by almost 9,000 kg while also saving 21,200 truck kilometers.
With the wound dressing Cosmopor® E, an innovative process now allows for the reuse of around 170 tons of silicone paper each year.
In the case of ready-to-use surface disinfectant wipes, PET (polyethylene terephthalate) is being replaced with cellulose-based alternatives wherever possible to reduce reliance on fossil raw materials. Bacillol® 30 Sensitive Green Tissues, for example, are ready-to-use wipes for sensitive surfaces made from 100% plastic-free fabrics derived from renewable raw materials.
Use disinfectants safely. Always read the label and product information before use.
For its commitment to sustainability, the HARTMANN GROUP was awarded the Silver Medal in the globally recognized ESG rating by EcoVadis. This distinction recognizes companies that demonstrably take responsibility for sustainability. With this achievement, the HARTMANN GROUP ranks among the top 15% of all companies assessed by EcoVadis during the past twelve months. The award highlights progress in the field of sustainability and serves as motivation to continue improving.
Join us and share your commitment to sustainability and resource conservation under the hashtag #WorldEnvironmentDay.
Would you like to learn more about our comprehensive sustainability initiatives? You can find our current Sustainability Report here.
