We are committed to achieving climate neutrality internationally at all our locations, in a step-by-step manner. Furthermore; we believe respecting human rights throughout the supply chain, implementing resource- and energy-saving processes, and engaging in sustainable and charitable projects that benefit society are important parts of our GEDIA philosophy.
The challenge of limiting global warming is not only technological but also, more importantly, social. We measure the efficiency of our processes in terms of both short-term economic success and long-term environmental impact. Our business activities are aligned with the goal of comprehensive CO₂ neutrality. We are committed to the Paris Climate Agreement and are aiming for CO₂ neutrality* by 2032.
To achieve carbon neutrality across the Group as quickly as possible, the proportion of green electricity utilized is monitored at all production facilities. Some of our locations are already utilizing 100% green electricity, and the overall proportion is increasing annually across the Group. Currently, we have a green electricity share of 64% within the GEDIA Group.
In addition to our objective of achieving climate neutrality for our direct emissions, we invest a minimum of 1% of our investments in sustainable measures, such as heat recovery systems, photovoltaics, energy-efficient buildings, donations to social institutions, or reforestation programs.
Our research and development activities form the foundation for a strong culture of innovation. GEDIA tapped into the lightweight construction potential of cold forming technology at an early stage. By using high-strength and ultra-high-strength steels, we were able to achieve consistent reductions in component weights. Hot forming was also used to further increase strength; this type of forming method allows for a notable reduction in vehicle component weight while simultaneously maximizing component strength. GEDIA has developed an innovative hot forming process that enables the partial tempering of car body components: TemperBox® technology.
At GEDIA, every part and every piece counts: every part, because we develop and manufacture innovative structural parts for lightweight body construction in collaboration with nearly all major car manufacturers. Every piece, because this would not be possible without our 4,700 motivated and competent employees. We are committed to respecting human rights. As a company, we underline this with a human rights policy anchored in our principles towards our employees and all those who are affected by our business activities, our business relationships, our supply chain, and our products.
At GEDIA, we prioritize occupational health and safety through a preventative occupational health and safety culture. Equipping all employees with personal protective equipment, regular training and workshops on occupational safety, and many other measures have helped to significantly reduce the number of accidents at work in the GEDIA Group despite increased working hours in 2023.
Helping is part of our culture. GEDIA views itself as an active member of society. It is therefore of great importance to us to make a positive contribution in the regions and communities in which we operate. Internationally, we support numerous organizations and take the initiative ourselves. Our employees are active in the areas of diversity and inclusion, education and development, sport, health, and environmental protection in countries as diverse as Mexico, Europe, and Asia. To this end, we hold workshops, make donations, and actively support initiatives.
GEDIA collects and monitors environmental indicators, including energy consumption and emission values, through a company-wide reporting system as part of its environmental management program. Reducing direct and indirect CO₂ emissions is a crucial step in combating climate change. It is a priority for GEDIA to minimize these emissions and achieve climate neutrality by 2032. GEDIA has set a goal of allocating 1% of the GEDIA Group's total investments each year from 2022 for measures aimed at reducing emissions. From 2028, this will increase to 2%.
To achieve this, GEDIA is continuously optimizing internal processes and investing in intelligent, modern, and resource-saving production systems. Another guiding principle for us is the Reduce, Reuse, Recycle approach.
*Applies to Scope 1 and Scope 2