We strive to minimize our direct and indirect greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions throughout our locations. We also assess climate-related risks as we decide how to allocate capital, expand our operations and develop and refine our product offerings.
We use our data management system to collect and estimate GHG emissions across our business, including distribution centers and offices. Tracking and managing GHG emissions through a central system helps us monitor progress toward GHG emissions reduction targets and execute our strategy to achieve these goals. Some initiatives related to our GHG emissions reduction strategy include improving operating efficiency, converting to energy sources with lower GHG emissions and investing in renewable energy sources.
As a result of our GHG emissions reduction strategy, in 2023, we achieved a 19% reduction in Scope 1 and Scope 2 GHG emissions from our facilities and a 20% reduction in energy consumed in our facilities, compared to a 2021 baseline.
* Per ton of production. Compared to baseline data available for 2021.
* Per ton of production. Compared to baseline data available for 2021.
In addition to reducing GHG emissions, RPM is also working to reduce other forms of air emissions. Although most of our facilities do not generate significant air emissions, we continue to look for opportunities to lower our impacts while complying with applicable environmental regulations.
In 2021, Radiant Color invested $1 million in plant upgrades to reduce emissions. The installation of four wet air scrubbers has enabled the plant to capture emissions and transfer them to a process tank, where they are converted to water and carbon dioxide. Independent assessments indicate this process is operating successfully—no wastewater is generated, and emissions have been significantly reduced.
Throughout 2022 and 2023, nearly 100 RPM associates participated in Energy Star Treasure Hunts as part of a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency sponsored program in which participants identify quick energy-saving opportunities. Our teams identified 34 energy reduction projects across 22 locations ranging from lighting upgrades to solar panel installations. These projects resulted in nearly 2.3 million kWh of reduced electrical energy consumption and 100 million BTU of reduced natural gas consumption. Teams also identified four solar installation projects, which will provide approximately 1.2 million kWh of renewable energy sourcing when active. In total, we estimate these improvements are also saving the company $2.2 million annually through reduced energy costs.
Throughout 2022 and 2023, nearly 100 RPM associates participated in Energy Star Treasure Hunts as part of a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency sponsored program in which participants identify quick energy-saving opportunities. Our teams identified 34 energy reduction projects across 22 locations ranging from lighting upgrades to solar panel installations. These projects resulted in nearly 2.3 million kWh of reduced electrical energy consumption and 100 million BTU of reduced natural gas consumption. Teams also identified four solar installation projects, which will provide approximately 1.2 million kWh of renewable energy sourcing when active. In total, we estimate these improvements are also saving the company $2.2 million annually through reduced energy costs.
In 2023, EcoVadis recognized RPM’s Winco with a Gold award and Tremco CPG Europe with a Bronze award, each with a 25% improvement in their overall scores from their latest assessments. EcoVadis sustainability ratings are based on a range of categories, including environmental, human rights and procurement.
In 2023, EcoVadis recognized RPM’s Winco with a Gold award and Tremco CPG Europe with a Bronze award, each with a 25% improvement in their overall scores from their latest assessments. EcoVadis sustainability ratings are based on a range of categories, including environmental, human rights and procurement.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Learn more about our efforts to minimize the impact of climate change in our 2023 Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) Report. Click here >