Tarkett’s Groundbreaking Sustainability Statement
In a significant advancement for the flooring industry, Tarkett, an esteemed leader in eco-friendly flooring and sports surface solutions, has introduced its 2024 Sustainability Statement. This release marks a pivotal moment as Tarkett becomes the first global company within its industry to fully comply with the new EU Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) legislation.
Understanding the CSRD Legislation
The new legislation aims to heighten accountability for corporations by establishing a standardized sustainability framework. Tarkett views this development as an impetus for fostering greater corporate social responsibility. CEO Fabrice Barthélemy commented, "The CSRD is a considerable leap towards enhancing corporate responsibility. It compels companies to examine their impacts systematically. For Tarkett, it has provided clarity on our most pressing sustainability issues. By adopting pertinent methodologies, we have made marked strides in minimizing our environmental impact and managing risks associated with our operations."
Key Achievements in Sustainability
As part of its ambitious climate roadmap aimed for 2030, Tarkett has reported a notable 23% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions across its entire value chain over the past five years. Early in 2023, their climate strategy received validation from the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), underscoring Tarkett’s commitment to science-aligned sustainability goals.
Recognition and Awards
Tarkett’s environmental efforts have not gone unnoticed. The company has proudly secured a spot in the Financial Times and Statista's annual Europe’s Climate Leaders Ranking. Furthermore, it received a prestigious Platinum Medal from EcoVadis, placing it in the top 1% of 130,000 entities evaluated across 180 nations. Most remarkably, in February 2025, Tarkett joined the distinguished A List from CDP for climate performance, ranking among the top 2% of 24,800 evaluated businesses.
Major Sustainability Achievements in 2024
1. Recycled Materials Usage
In 2024, Tarkett crafted products with 157,000 tons of recycled materials, accounting for 19% of its total raw materials used. The company has set an ambitious target to increase this proportion to 30% by 2030.
2. Sustainable Raw Material Selection
Tarkett places a strong emphasis on selecting raw materials that do not contribute to resource depletion. Currently, 69% of these materials are renewable, recycled, or abundant.
3. International Recycling Initiatives
The ReStart program has established a commendable footprint across 29 countries on five continents, successfully collecting 124,000 tons of end-of-life flooring over the past 14 years. This program plays a crucial role in Tarkett’s commitment to sustainability.
4. Collaboration with Ingka Group (IKEA)
In collaboration with Ingka Group, Tarkett has redirected 70,000 m² of end-of-life vinyl flooring material from IKEA stores across 13 European nations in the last five years. This recycling initiative has facilitated the transformation of these materials into new flooring at Tarkett's facility in Ronneby, Sweden, helping avert approximately 700 tons of greenhouse gas emissions.
5. Infill Regeneration Facilities
In Pennsylvania and Oregon, Tarkett Sports’ facilities have successfully collected and repurposed 11,700 tons of infill for new applications in 2024, showcasing the company's commitment to recycling and resource recovery.
6. Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Tarkett has also made significant strides toward diversity and inclusion, with women's representation in management reaching 29% in 2024, close to its 2025 target of 30%.
Conclusion
Tarkett continues to set the bar high in the sustainability realm, evidenced by its groundbreaking initiatives and recognition. The company is not only leading the way in sustainable flooring but is also committing to circular economy principles through its innovative strategies. For detailed insights into Tarkett's milestones, the latest sustainability magazine will provide further information on their ongoing journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tarkett's Sustainability Statement?
Tarkett's Sustainability Statement outlines its efforts and achievements in reducing environmental impact and adhering to new EU sustainability legislation.
How has Tarkett reduced its greenhouse gas emissions?
By implementing an ambitious climate roadmap, Tarkett has achieved a 23% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions across its value chain over five years.
What recognition has Tarkett received for its sustainability efforts?
Tarkett has been awarded a Platinum Medal by EcoVadis and featured in the CDP A List for climate performance, among other accolades.
What are the goals of Tarkett's ReStart program?
The ReStart program aims to recycle end-of-life flooring products, thus contributing to sustainability and reducing waste through international initiatives.
How is Tarkett addressing diversity and inclusion?
The company focuses on increasing women's representation in management roles, achieving 29% in 2024 and striving for a target of 30% by 2025.
