Environment

For us, environmental responsibility means more than simply complying with legal requirements. Through a structured environmental management system, we are constantly working to prevent and reduce environmental impact, use resources responsibly and improve our environmental performance.

Our measures for environmental protection and resource conservation

In addition to our science-based climate strategy, we are implementing a wide range of measures to use resources efficiently and continuously improve our environmental performance.

Our carbon footprint & climate strategy

Bürkle is ISO 14001 certified

 

By obtaining ISO 14001 certification, we are sending a clear signal of our commitment to structured and measurable environmental protection. Our environmental management system helps us to conserve resources in a targeted manner, ensure compliance with legal requirements, and actively integrate environmental responsibility into our day-to-day business operations.

Science-based climate targets in accordance with the SBTi standard

Bürkle is taking responsibility and reducing its emissions throughout the entire value chain – through an ambitious, scientifically sound climate management programme in line with the 1.5 °C target of the Paris Agreement.

Using 2023 as the base year, we will reduce our absolute greenhouse gas emissions in Scopes 1 and 2 by 42 per cent by 2030.

EcoVadis Sustainability Assessment

Bürkle has been awarded the EcoVadis Platinum Medal for sustainability, placing it amongst the top 1 per cent of all assessed companies.

 

In the environmental category, we scored 95 out of 100 points.

EcoVadis

Measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions

Achieve more with less energy

Climate & Energy

We are committed to efficient energy use, renewable energy and the consistent reduction of CO₂ emissions.
Using state-of-the-art technology, green electricity and our own deep well, we design our processes to conserve resources and achieve a 100 per cent emission-free electricity supply. In this way, we make a measurable contribution to climate protection and actively take responsibility for a more sustainable future.

 

Photovoltaic system

With over 1,000 m² of photovoltaic modules and the high levels of sunshine in Bad Bellingen, we generate part of our electricity requirements directly on site. This enables us to significantly reduce our annual CO₂ emissions.

Electricity from renewable energy sources

In accounting terms, we meet 100 per cent of our electricity requirements using our own solar energy and certified green electricity.

Energy-efficient heat supply

By 2029 at the latest, we will have completely phased out heating oil and switched our heating system to efficient heat pumps.
In addition, we use process waste heat for heating and hot water. In this way, we reduce energy consumption and make sensible use of existing energy.

Energy-efficient building optimisation

LED lighting and motion detectors in the warehouse ensure that the lights are only switched on when they are actually needed. Modern windows and doors improve thermal and sound insulation and help to reduce the energy consumption of our buildings.

Electric mobility and charging infrastructure at the site

We are gradually converting our company vehicle fleet to electric vehicles. By the end of 2029, the fleet is set to consist almost entirely of battery-electric vehicles.
Our own charging points on the company premises enable electric vehicles to be charged directly at the workplace.

Responsible management of resources and waste

Resources & Circular Economy

We are systematically and continuously reducing the environmental impact of raw materials, chemicals and waste. In doing so, we focus on the efficient use of resources, the responsible handling of hazardous substances and the consistent prevention of environmental pollution.

We are committed to a resource-efficient and increasingly circular approach to material use. To this end, we continuously review and further develop the materials we use – with the aim of making greater use of recyclable materials and renewable raw materials, whilst reducing our reliance on fossil-based raw materials. 

Clear objectives and measures help us to conserve resources and continuously improve our environmental performance.

Optimised manufacturing processes

Through optimised production processes, forward-looking planning and quality controls, we reduce material wastage, scrap and energy consumption, and use resources more efficiently.

Waste and recycling

Through systematic waste management, we reduce residual waste and specifically increase our recycling rate. Waste is consistently sorted, disposed of properly and recycled as effectively as possible in collaboration with certified waste management companies. The regular collection and analysis of our waste data helps us to continuously improve our processes and further strengthen the circular economy.

Hazardous Substances Management

We are committed to handling hazardous substances safely and in compliance with the law, and we consistently reduce the use of particularly critical substances. Where possible, we replace hazardous chemicals with less harmful alternatives. Clear guidelines for storage, labelling, handling and disposal, structured emergency plans and regular training for our staff ensure a high level of safety. Hazardous waste is disposed of exclusively by qualified specialist contractors. As a matter of principle, we do not engage in the cross-border transport of hazardous waste.

Product solutions

Sustainable materials and product innovations

Our research and development team is constantly working to identify and utilise innovative and more environmentally friendly materials.
 

Disposable organic samplers

By using Bio-PE, which consists of at least 94 per cent non-fossil, renewable raw materials, we are reducing our use of fossil resources. The products manufactured from it are 100 per cent recyclable. The ACT label on our Bio-PE range provides transparency regarding the carbon footprint and promotes sustainable product development.

Bürkle Organic Products

ACT Label

To ensure a high level of transparency in the area of sustainability, products in the LaboPlast® Bio and SteriPlast® Bio ranges have carried the ACT label since 2023. This label provides information on how the product performs across various criteria, including manufacturing, impact during use, product life cycle and innovation.

Offsetting of remaining emissions

Despite consistent reduction measures, it is not possible to completely avoid all greenhouse gas emissions. We offset any remaining emissions by supporting certified climate protection projects.
This offsetting is carried out in addition to our reduction measures and does not count towards the achievement of our science-based climate targets.

Corporate carbon offsetting

Offsetting remaining greenhouse gas emissions through internationally recognised and certified climate protection projects

Corporate carbon offsetting

Carbon Offsetting for Parcel Delivery

Participation in the GLS KlimaProtect programme to offset transport-related emissions from parcel deliveries

Carbon Offsetting for Parcel Delivery

REGIONAL.KLIMASCHUTZ.MACHEN

Bürkle is a partner in the REGIONAL.KLIMASCHUTZ.MACHEN alliance in the district of Lörrach. Together with other businesses, local authorities and organisations in the district, we are committed to greater climate protection and a sustainable future for the region.

UN Global Compact

Bürkle has been a participant in the UN Global Compact (UNGC) since 2024. This voluntary commitment marks a significant step in our commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.

Discover our sustainability page and our other key areas of focus within the ESG sector.