BOENNIGHEIM (msc) Responsible action is a defining value for Hohenstein, a global testing and research provider. Their 2024 Sustainability Report provides transparency through documented progress and detailed insights into how sustainability is embedded. It covers both the existing sustainability measures at the German headquarters and the company's goals for 2025 and beyond. The direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions (Scope 1, 2 and 3) of all its locations worldwide were recorded for the first time.
Hohenstein sees ecological, social and economic sustainability as success factors for the future and has taken important action over the past year:
Environmental: In addition to a new combined heat and power plant, the photovoltaic system was installed at the headquarters. An environmental team and the newly appointed environmental officer are supporting the introduction of the environmental management system in accordance with EMAS (Eco-Management and Audit Scheme). Future reduction targets and measures will be developed based on the greenhouse gas emissions recorded comprehensively for the first time.
Social: Through support, training and transparent exchange, Hohenstein is working to implement respectful cooperation with all of the global employees. The balance of work and private life also remains a focus. An internal satisfaction survey shows that 85% of employees are satisfied or very satisfied with Hohenstein as an employer. Most of the improvements that employees suggested in the survey have been implemented.
Corporate Governance: Hohenstein management creates a motivating work environment by promoting autonomy, meaning and expertise. Regular colloquia and HR consultations were expanded to include additional formats for communicating with management and increase the exchange. The Sustainable Development team was expanded.
Hohenstein has been implementing various measures to protect the environment and conserve resources for decades. This was confirmed by external KEFF+Check in 2024. Next year, the high level is to be further optimized as part of the EMAS introduction. “Sustainability and the responsible use of our planet's resources are a matter of course for us,” explains CEO Dr. Stefan Droste. “The increasing number of extreme weather events around the world clearly shows that every individual is called upon to contribute to safeguarding our common future. For this reason, environmental and climate protection is a top priority at Hohenstein.”
The family-owned company wants to take responsibility, not only in its own sustainable actions, but also as a reliable partner for its customers: “2024 was characterized by new regulations; in the EU alone, numerous directives were adopted, but in some cases their introduction was postponed and their content is still being finalized,” explains Katja Hetzer, Sustainability Development Manager at Hohenstein. “We support our clients in developing a solid strategic direction and selecting suitable measures. Thanks to our expertise in various specialist areas, we cover many aspects, not only for the fulfilment of corporate due diligence obligations, but also for sustainable product development.”
Click here for the Sustainability Report 2024
About Hohenstein
Hohenstein is a family-owned company with more than 75 years of experience in testing, certification and research. With roots in the textile sector, the Hohenstein testing portfolio now includes softlines, hardlines and medical products. Around the globe, approximately 1,500 employees work on testing and service offerings such as testing for harmful substances, performance testing or fit testing. Customers from all over the world receive everything from a single source: Hohenstein supports companies along the entire value chain, from the testing process and certification to the marketing of their products. The Hohenstein experts are experienced partners for more-sustainable materials, products and processes. As a founding member, Hohenstein is one of the most important laboratories for OEKO-TEX®, the world's leading certifier of textile and leather goods. For training and further education, the Hohenstein Academy provides online and classroom courses.
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