Reducing the environmental impact of products from Svedbergs Group is in line with goal 12 of the UN Sustainable Development Goals – Responsible consumption and production. Water and water use are directly linked to Svedbergs Group’s operations. Significant quantities of water are used in the extraction of raw materials and in connection with the use of finished products. The brand companies work actively to optimise and streamline use as far as possible.
Sustainability goals
100 percent of suppliers in waterstressed areas should have sustainable water management practices in place by 2030. The target covers Tier 1 suppliers operating in water-stressed areas, based on our water risk assessment.
Impact in the value chain
Svedbergs Group’s impact on water withdrawal is primarily a consequence of upstream extraction of raw materials, where part of the production and manufacturing takes place in regions characterised by water stress. Svedbergs Group has suppliers in countries including Spain, Italy, Germany, Portugal, Belgium, Turkey and China. Individual raw materials associated with high water withdrawal include ceramics and metal. In addition, there is significant water use associated with consumer use. Water consumption in own operations is more limited.
Policies related to water and marine resources
Water Stewardship Policy. The policy provides clear guidelines for commitments, targets and requirements related to water use and withdrawal. The policy covers the entire value chain and applies to all Svedbergs Group subsidiaries, their employees, suppliers and subcontractors. The policy is subject to annual revision. It is communicated and available to all relevant stakeholders via appropriate channels.
Product development
A major focus of product development is on optimising and streamlining water use, especially in showers and mixers, without limiting the user’s experience and needs. For example, most of the mixers in the ranges are equipped with technologies that reduce water consumption such as flow controllers and aeration.
Collaboration and dialogue with suppliers
All brand companies work actively to reduce water use in the value chain. Preventive work is carried out by means of dialogue with suppliers and by monitoring of the water situation in vulnerable regions. This is intended to reduce the water footprint of production and water-related risks in the supply chain. The work takes into account both the water footprint of the goods and the water situation in the area. For suppliers in regions characterised by water stress, there are specific requirements for actions and action plans to reduce water use. This may also include certifications and specific policies.
