Go Green with Hörmann

As a fourth-generation family owned and run business, Hörmann have always taken their social and environmental responsibility very seriously. The objective of successive generations has been to hand over a sound business, not only financially but also in terms of a business that does not jeopardise the future of generations to come. Over the years Hörmann has constantly been at the forefront of climate protection, introducing sustainable strategies and manufacturing processes throughout its global operation. Working to a three-step climate protection strategy – CO2 calculation, reduction and offset, tangible results are now being achieved.

In 2020, the major focus was on calculating CO2 levels and its’ reduction. By the end of the year CO2 calculation had been completed for all factories operating in Europe under the Hörmann name and 14 German regional sales offices. Zero tonnes of CO2 were achieved under ‘Scope 2’ emissions (indirect emissions from electricity purchased and used) in all German locations, mainly due to purchase of 100% green energy. Work is well underway to influence and reduce ‘Scope 3’ emissions (indirect emissions from such things as business travel, procurement, waste, and water) with the implementation of the three-step, holistic approach.

Further measures to reduce the production of CO2 continue to be introduced. From the commissioning of combined heat and power plants at manufacturing sites and the creation of a solar farm at Shakti Hörmann, to switching to GoGreen shipping featuring optimised transport routes, alternative vehicles and energy-efficient warehouses. Even seemingly simple things like the use of recycled paper, all add to the company’s effort and commitment.

2021 will see Hörmann become actively involved in the third step of its strategy – CO2 compensation and offset. From March a climate-neutral product logo will be applied to all products. Hörmann will be working in collaboration with ClimatePartner, who implement environmental protection strategies and offset CO2 emissions through climate protection projects. So far three offset projects have been selected – wind energy in Bhachau and Tuppadahalli in India, as well as re-forestation in Uruguay. With the logo including a QR code, Hörmann customers and end consumers will be able to find out about the compensation project invested in and how much CO2 has been offset.

Here in the UK, with recent Government announcements regarding ambitious emission reduction targets by the end of 2030 (a 68% reduction compared to 1990), together with a target to obtain net-zero emissions by 2050, climate change and its impact on businesses and consumers is set to remain high on the agenda. With research showing that eco-savvy end consumers are looking for environmentally sound products and are prepared to pay a premium, the ability of a business to react and adapt to this climate focus will be crucial.

In 2015, we installed 220 kW of solar PV (847 panels) on the roof of our warehouse at our Coalville headquarters. During the summer up to 100% of the power required to run our site is generated from the solar panels, with any additional power generated being sent back to the grid. In a year we generate on average around 180,000 kWh’s of electricity, which is enough energy to supply the average family home in the UK for 38 years. We also have energy monitoring and control systems in place, which enable us to make real time changes to our consumption.

The move to provide hybrid company vehicles, with solar powered charging points being installed in the car park at Coalville, is a further commitment to reduce our carbon footprint. Stringent environmental policies resulting in 98% of the waste produced in the UK being recycled and even the planned replacement of our printed price list with a digital, interactive version further strengthens our green credentials.

Our commitment to the environment has also formed a keystone in the design and development of our product range. For many years we have led the market in the supply of thermally efficient external doors which carry an individual u-Value allowing customers to design-in improved thermal performance into their projects. Work continues to research and develop new materials and processes to further improve thermal efficiency and safe-guard future generations.

Looking forward, the inclusion of suppliers and the engagement of staff will form key pillars in the Groups commitment to improving its impact on the environment. By encouraging everyone to do their part to protect the environment and climate a big difference can be made.

As a global business and through its individual operations, Hörmann will continue to be at the forefront for the supply of quality door products, whilst ensuring that their footprint is light. As the famous Chinese proverb says ‘When the winds of change blow some people build walls, others build windmills’