What we do for the environment
Effective measures and practical solutions
Business success depends on assuming responsibility for the environment. We must therefore take appropriate steps for this purpose and avoid actions that deplete our natural resources. At HERMA we view the environment holistically, taking full account of all ecological and economic aspects: our location, the materials we use, our manufacturing processes, our products and the solutions we offer. We attach particular importance to waste avoidance, recycling and proper disposal.
HERMAgreenFacts
Smart recycling of release paper
Release paper accounts for up to 35 percent of the waste from self-adhesive labels. HERMA sees this “waste” as a resource. For many years we have cooperated with the Finnish organisation Cycle4Green (C4G) to supply release liner waste from production to a special recycling plant. According to a certificate issued by C4G, some 173 tonnes were collected in 2024. Through participation in Cycle4Green we reduce our CO2 emissions, fight against rising prices for raw materials and protect our resources in the long term.
Avoiding the use of hazardous materials
Environmental protection is in every HERMA product. Examples include label material made of chlorine-free bleached cellulose and adhesives that are free of solvents. HERMA is also continually replacing solvent-containing inks with environmentally friendly UV ink systems.
Using energy efficiently
One of our goals in energy management is to use energy as efficiently as possible. An example is our new coating plant for adhesives in Filderstadt. The plant covers its own needs for electricity, heat and air conditioning. The annual energy savings are equivalent to what is consumed by about 150 single-family dwellings. In addition, our labels are manufactured entirely with green electricity generated by hydropower. In this way we save approximately 9,000 tonnes of CO2 per year. We also participate in the Deutsche Post GOGREEN initiative for carbon-neutral shipping.
Protecting our forests
HERMA is a recipient of the FSCTM seal for adhesive material and labels (FSC-C110972). By adhering to strict guidelines, we help ensure sustainable forestry. The FSCTM guidelines also require compliance with the EU Timber Regulation (EUTR) for combating illegal logging. HERMA labels are licensed by Noventiz, a Cologne-based disposal service provider, to ensure optimal recycling according to the German Packaging Act.
Certified energy management
HERMA puts a special emphasis on conservation of resources and climate change mitigation. In 2013, we were one of the first companies in our industry to obtain certification as per ISO 50001 for our energy management system, as confirmed by a TÜV SÜD audit. The certification includes a commitment to continuously reduce our specific energy consumption in Filderstadt. This conserves our natural resources and protects our climate. It also contributes to HERMA’s competitiveness.
HERMA GreenMission
Details about our sustainability strategy and activities, our goals, milestones and progress can be found
and progress here.