Sustainability
Report2015

Stahl Holdings bv

Contents
5 Message
from the CEO

18 Innovative
Solutions

6 Highlights
2015

20 People& Society

8 Sustainability
Goal

24 Financial
Performance

10 Raw
Materials

26 Management
Team

12 Responsible
Operations

28 Global
Presence

16 Trusted
Partnerships

2 Sustainability Report 2015 | Table of contents | Index

3

Message from the CEO
I am very pleased to present our 2015 Sustainability
Report which provides an overview of Stahl’s activities
over the last year.
Sustainability is a major challenge in our industry andStahl is fully committed to the environmental and social
responsibilities that come with our leadership position.

“ Sustainability is a major
challenge in our industry andStahl is fully committed tothe environmental and social
responsibilities that come with
our leadership position.”

Our primary goal is to achieve a more transparent supply
chain by stimulating cooperation with our industry
partners. We believe that sustainability evolves as aresult of this transparency and our strategy is built
around this belief. We also see sustainability as a great
opportunity for Stahl, to gain a competitive edge andto drive operational excellence.
As you will see in this report, we are constantly working

Best regards,

on ways to improve the environmental footprint linked
to our activities. Aside from the innovative sustainable
solutions we bring to our customers and partners
throughout the supply chain, we have also publishedenvironmental indicators for our own activities aroundthe world. We updated our Code of Conduct policy to

Huub van BeijerenCEOunderline our ethical commitment to business practices,and we rolled out an ambitious global Safety AwarenessCampaign. Also, we completed some exciting technology
acquisitions and partnerships that are directly linked
to our sustainability goals.
You can find more details in this report about theinitiatives that demonstrate Stahl’s commitment to
the environmental and social cause.

4 4Sustainability
Sustainability
ReportReport2015
2015 | Table of contents | Index

5

Highlights 2015

Theme 1 - EnglishyIn case of fire, start
extinguishing / dial: 555

oking

In production areas /storage

bited

General prohibition

Be sure, it’s secure!
SHE keeps us safe

reas /

access under the age of 16 years

arts with myponsibility

Dial 555 for any
emergency

In case of fire, start
extinguishing / dial: 555

General no smoking

In production areas /storage

Open fire prohibited

General prohibition

What is more
important?
What I say
or what I do?
It’s my responsibility to set
an example when it comesto safety

Be sure, it’s secure!
SHE keeps us safe

In production areas /laboratory

No access under the age of 16 years	Ambitious Safety, Health andEnvironment campaign (SHE)

1Stahl rolled out its 2-year long worldwide safety awareness campaign
with the goal of reducing the number of incidents within the company.
The campaign consists of 12 eight-week campaigns, each with its own
theme and linked to 10 Golden Rules of Safety. Given the expansion of
Stahl’s operations in recent years, we consider this SHE campaign a
critical part of our strategy for sustainable growth.

5

Significant growth in the sales ofStahl’s sustainable product range

Sales of Stahl EasyWhite Tan™ doubled in 2015 vs. 2014 andthe forecast is for similar growth in 2016. Processing leather
with Stahl EasyWhite Tan™ can result in reduced consumptionof salt, water and chemicals, making it an increasingly popular
choice for our customers. Promotion of Stahl EasyWhite Tan™
will be stepped up in 2016 as we learn more about the benefits
it can provide our customers.
Sales of our STAHL EVO range of compliant coatings used in	Joint Venturewith OEM NuTech	Agreement with Proviera®
Probiotics for Leather™

In July 2015, Stahl entered into a joint venture withAnnounced in early 2016, Stahl agreed distribution rights

each of which were attended by hundreds of people. The STAHLOEM NuTech, an innovator in powder coatings for heat

for an exciting new range of bio-based products used in

EVO range is also compliant with the Manufactured Restrictedsensitive surfaces. Like Stahl, OEM NuTech has a

the early stages of leather processing. Proviera® Probiotics

Substances List (MRSL) launched by the ZDHC foundation instrong focus on sustainability and their eco-friendly

for Leather™, derived from controlled fermentation using

December 2015.

coatings will become a key part of Stahl’s offering

natural ingredients, can significantly reduce the effluent

in the architectural coatings segment.

load while simultaneously improving leather quality.

2

3

4

	New Centers of Excellence

apparel and footwear tripled in 2015 vs. 2014. This exponential
growth of the sustainable chemistry portfolio was fueled bypromotional roadshows, for example in different cities in India,

6

External assessment of Stahl’s
Sustainability Performance

7

Stahl Campus®
expands

Stahl opened its new Center of Excellence for Automotive in Waalwijk, theStahl has begun to utilize the expertise of external

Stahl Campus®, our global knowledge center established

Netherlands in September 2015. This energy-neutral facility, which will beorganizations to provide feedback on how we are doing.

in 2014 in Waalwijk, the Netherlands, to promote a morecertified under BREEAM standards for sustainable buildings, is designed to

We received a score of 77/100 from the Higg Index - atransparent and sustainable supply chain, expanded toinspire our customers and partners by showcasing our sustainable innovations

self-assessment tool from the Sustainable Apparel

León, Mexico in November 2015. At Stahl Campus® wefor car interiors. The lab‘s high performance testing equipment also allows us

Coalition which promotes transparency in the supply

invite customers, suppliers, educational institutes, OEMs

to test according to global car manufacturer specifications.

chain. We are taking steps to push this score even higher

and others to come to our specialized laboratories andin the future. Stahl is also working on a plan to achievestrengthen their knowledge through training. With thisIn October 2015 Stahl opened its Center of Excellence for Leather Chemicals

a CSR rating from Ecovadis, another recognized

expansion, Stahl’s partners in Mexico can benefit from ourin León, Mexico. Thanks to this state-of-the-art laboratory, we can engage closely

methodology in the industry.

established training modules adapted to the local market.

with customers to achieve practical and sustainable solutions throughout the

In 2016 we will expand Stahl Campus® activities to Asia.

entire leather process, from raw hides to the finished leather and after care.

6 Sustainability Report 2015 | Table of contents | Index

7

The Stahl Sustainability Standard
To achieve our Sustainability goal, we have identified 5 focus areas.

Sustainability
Goal� Raw Materials - suppliers and the products and services that they provide
� Responsible Operations - all the activities associated with doing business in Stahl� T
rusted Partnerships - collaboration with third parties throughout the supply chain
� I
nnovative Solutions - the products and services that we offer our customers
� People & Society - employees and the communities around us

Stahl’s goal is to achieve a more transparent andsustainable supply chain in the industries where we are

People& Societyactive. By stimulating cooperation in the supply chain,
via intense collaboration with our partners, we believethat sustainability evolves as a positive consequence.

Raw
Materials

Innovative
Solutions

The Stahl
Sustainability
Standard
Responsible
Operations
TrustedPartnerships

8 Sustainability Report 2015 | Table of contents | Index

| 9

Raw
Materials

Supplier Partnerships

closer with third parties on new

Substances List in 2015 which

Sustainability has become theconcepts. These tight relationships

ensures that substances on the list

primary topic of conversation with ourwith suppliers and partners arecannot be used in the development

suppliers. Stahl has made it clear thatessential for us to meet ourof any new products within theit will only work with suppliers who

sustainability goals.

company. This list contains

have demonstrated full commitment

substances that we believe will beto sustainability and who are able

restricted by the industry or deemed

to offer competitive alternatives

Restricted Substances

undesirable in the future. This has

to the products and services that

A fundamental element of mostcan harm the environment or may

implications for our suppliers, andcompany’s chemical management

be non-compliant in the future.

they are informed continuously

system is a Restricted Substances

about our policy via updated lists ofList (RSL). For a clothing or footwear

potentially restricted materials.

Many new raw materials are being

brand for example, the RSL is atevaluated as a result, for example:

the heart of their business, in thatZDHC MRSL: In 2011 a group of major

it ensures that specific products

apparel and footwear brands andare not placed on the market

retailers made a shared commitment

which could harm consumers.

to help lead the industry towards zero� r
enewable plant-based
resources, which can substituteexisting synthetic raw materials

The products that we receive from our suppliers
are critical to achieving our sustainability objectives.

derived from fossil fuels�biodegradable products which
can be incorporated into our

By eliminating hazardous substances and using

products to reduce the waste

more sustainable raw materials we can make real

effluent of our customers

changes in the industry.

� l
ow toxicity alternatives toorganic solvents
� smart packaging
�materials free of restricted
substancesdischarge of hazardous chemicals by
Stahl works closely with the2020. In 2015 the ZDHC launched its

consumer brands in the supply

own MRSL (Manufactured Restricted

chain to ensure that it anticipates

Substances List) for leather andrestrictions on chemical substancessynthetic substrates, a major

and acts ahead of time. This means

milestone for the industry. Thisthat our suppliers are also made fully

MRSL differs from an RSL in that it

aware of the potential hazards andincludes substances that are used

restrictions on substances contained

during the processing of leather andin the materials that they provide us.

synthetic materials, not just thosefound in the final product. Stahl has

Stahl RSL: In a proactive moveprepared ZDHC MRSL-compliant

In some cases we have set up

which shows our determination

product ranges and it is working

technology agreements which allow

to stay ahead of legislation, Stahlwith the ZDHC foundation towards

us to disclose information and work

established its own Restricted

its common goal.

“ Stahl will only work with
suppliers who have demonstrated fullcommitment to sustainability ”

10 Sustainability Report 2015 | Table of contents | The Stahl Sutainability Standard | Index

11

Safety, Health and Environment (SHE)
Stahl’s SHE policy is to manage all activities withoutof hazards, assessment of risks and provision of

hurting anyone, annoying our neighbors or harming

effective controls. For outpost sites (applications labs,

the environment. Driving this policy are the following

offices, warehouses) the Local Manager or General

key principles:Manager of the controlling site may delegate this
responsibility to the manager at the outpost site.

Responsible
Operations

� S
afety, health and the environment have first priority

This SHE reporting procedure was revised in 2015;

� Obey all laws and be a responsible corporate citizen

data is now collected and presented in a new format that

� Identify hazards and establish appropriate controls

simplifies information collection and interpretation.

for risks, potential adverse environmental impact
and regulatory requirements in the invention,
manufacture, sale and use of its products
� Provide customer care with all products throughout
the supply chain
� The goal is to eliminate all injuries, occupational
illnesses and environmental incidents
� Report and investigate all incidents, then takecorrective action and share learning

The impact of our operations on the environment

� Assure that employees and agents have appropriatecompetence for their roles

and the wellbeing of our employees is a priority

� Define SHE requirements in simple, clear terms thenfor Stahl. We have initiated a number of policies

communicate them to all employees and securesand initiatives to achieve this goal.

their involvement
� Report, monitor and audit all aspects of SHE
performance to confirm compliance and plannedcontinual improvement
� Celebrate and reward excellence in SHE performance

Safety Awareness Campaign

� Require all employees to accept personal

We launched a 2-year campaign in October 2015,

responsibility for their own safety and healthconsisting of 12 eight-week campaigns, each withand that of their colleagues

its own theme emphasizing personal and collective
responsibility and linked to the 10 Golden Rules

12 Sustainability Report 2015 | Table of contents | The Stahl Sutainability Standard | Index

SHE Organization and Reportingof Safety. Aside from a poster campaign, display

All Local Managers and General Managers areand safety signs were erected at the sites andresponsible for implementing the Stahl SHE policy

everyone in the company received a Golden Rules

and principles in the areas under their control. This

Card. Stahl considers this campaign a key part

responsibility includes systems for the recognitionof its Sustainability strategy.

13

Safety Key Performance Indicators

Environmental Key Performance Indicators

To ensure continued improvement in the evaluation and prevention of risks, Stahl reports some key performance

Stahl is continuously upgrading its production sites andhave many projects underway to reduce our usage in thoseindicators to track our progress on safety.

laboratory facilities to achieve efficiencies and reduce its

critical KPIs. We have also made significant improvements

environmental footprint. We measure and report energy

in the generation of waste in recent years, thanks to tighter

and water consumption on a monthly basis internally andportfolio management and improved processes.

			

2015

2014

Frequency rate of accidents with lost work time*

0,14

0,15

Severity rate of accidents**

3,8

5,55

Water

* Frequency rate: (number of reported accidents with lost days higher than three days x 100,000) / (number of worked hours).

Water consumption per tons produced** Severity rate: (number of lost days x 100,000) / (number of worked hours).

2

Water sources

2

ISO Norms
We act according to these external systems, as most of our

In 2015 the Stahl Leinfelden site started the certification

production locations are ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certified.

process for the ISO 50001 energy management system.

1

45% 45%1

55% 55%00Stahl has therefore decided to embark on a comprehensive

potentially irreversible threat to human society andreview of the initiatives that would be required to achievethat reductions in global C02 emissions will be required

reductions in C02 emissions over the next 5 years. Usingin order to meet the Global Climate Deal targets agreed

2015 emissions as a baseline, a long term C02 target willat the historic Paris Conference in December 2015.

be communicated during 2016.

2014

2015

2015

Water (m3) Water (m )Waste
Waste per tons produced
0,06

0,06

0,04

0,04

0,02

0,02

0

0

Waste types 201515%

C02 Emissions
			

2015

Scope 1: Direct GHG emission* (tons CO2-eq.)

17.361

Scope 2: Electricity Indirect Emission Sources** (tons CO2-eq.)

17.823

Scope 3: Other Indirect Emission Sources*** (tons CO2-eq.)

3.605

Total tons CO2-eq.		

38.789CO2 Emissions per tons produced

26%

28%

Burned energy
on-site

2014

2014

2015

2015

15%

85%

Purchased electricity
and steam

Energy consumption per tons produced
0,003

0,003

2%

0,002

0,002

** Scope 2: Electricity Indirect Emission Sources: are those that occur due to purchased energy (in the form of electricity, steam,*** Scope 3: Other Indirect Emission Sources: which occur due to company activity but are not sources owned or controlled

0,001

0,001

0

0

by the company: business travel.

Energy (TJ)

14 Sustainability Report 2015 | Table of contents | Index

Hazardous
Hazardous
waste waste

Energy sources* Scope 1: Direct GHG Emissions are those that occur from sources that are owned or operationally controlled by the company:

heat and cooling) from the grid or district heating or cooling systems.

85%

Energy0,2company owned or leased cars, other company vehicles, gas and oil used on site.

Non-Hazardous
Non-Hazardous
waste waste

Waste (tons)Waste (tons)

Business travel

46%

usage
WaterWater
usage
fromfrom
groundwater
groundwater

3

Greenhouse Gases
Stahl recognizes that climate change represents a

2014

WaterWater
usage
fromfrom
usage
publicsupplypublicsupply

2014

2014

2015

2015

2%

16%

16%

21%

21%

61%

SteamSteam

61%

Oil

Oil

Gas

Gas

Electricity
Electricity

Energy (TJ)

15

Trusted
Partnerships
By stimulating cooperation in the supply chain,
via intense partnership with our partners, we believe

The ZDHC Foundation

SLEM

Education Initiatives

In 2011 a group of major apparel

SLEM is an international

The University of Northamptonand footwear brands and retailers

innovation and education institute

School of Leather Technology ismade a shared commitment tofor footwear. Stahl cooperates

one of the most reputed in thehelp lead the clothing industry

with SLEM and contributes yearly

world. Many graduates from thetowards zero discharge of hazardous

to scholarships for their Masters

school have gone on to achieve

chemicals by 2020. The apparelof Footwear and Innovation. We

great things in the leather industry.

and footwear value chain is long

also collaborate with them on

In the interests of sustainability,

and complex and the ZDHC

innovative projects related to

Stahl Campus® and the University

foundation is cooperating closely

leather and chemistry.

are cooperating on several projects

with its members to drive industry-

which involve training of students

wide change. Stahl is part of thisand the promotion of sustainability

cooperation and we are committed

CSR Netherlands

practices throughout the supply

to the ZDHC goals.

In 2015 Stahl teamed up withchain.

CSR Netherlands and a group ofleading Dutch businesses to sign
Spin 360 Life Cycle Assessment

up to a far-reaching target: a 100%

The Leather Working GroupIn conjunction with Spin 360 andcircular economy by 2040. The idea

The objective of this multi-

some well-known fashion brands,

behind this initiative is to encourage

stakeholder group is to develop

Stahl has embarked on a Life Cycle

businesses to understand the socialand maintain an audit protocol

Assessment (LCA) of one of ourand environmental impact of theirthat assesses the environmental

that sustainability evolves as a positive consequence.

key products, Stahl EasyWhite Tan .

activities throughout their supply

compliance of tanners and to

This chapter highlights some of the projects we areThis project will allow us to quantify

chains. The ambition of thispromote sustainable practices

the environmental impact of Stahl

partnership is completely alignedin the leather processing industry.

EasyWhite Tan™ that has beenwith Stahl’s sustainability goals.

It is the group’s objective to work

working on with NGOs, universities and industry
associations towards achieving this goal.

™

transparently, involving brands,

defined for chemicals within the

suppliers, retailers, leading

International Environmental Product16 Sustainability Report 2015 | Table of contents | The Stahl Sutainability Standard | Index

Declaration (EDP) system. Aside

UN Global Compact

technical experts within thefrom the raw materials used to

Stahl is committed to the guiding

leather industry, NGOs and othermake the product, several process

principles of UN Global Compact,

stakeholder organizations. Stahl

indicators are also taken into accountthe world’s largest corporate

is an active member of this groupfor the analysis such as transport,sustainability initiative. With thisand is committed to the same goals

waste, pollutants, electricity,commitment we confirm theof promoting transparency andenergy and water. This project isalignment of our strategy andbest practices to the leather

being conducted in conjunction with

operations with the universal

industry. Meetings are held

Spin 360, one of the key players inprinciples of human rights, labor,

twice a year.

product environmental assessment.

environment and anti-corruption.

17

Innovative
SolutionsLeather Chemicals& Finishing

Performance Coatings& Polymers

Stahl EasyWhite Tan™

STAHL EVO

The main environmental benefit of using the Stahl

STAHL EVO is our new generation of polyurethane

EasyWhite Tan™ chrome-free system is the significant

based products for use in the manufacture of garment

reduction in consumption of water, salt and energy inand footwear. Topcoats, skins, adhesives, foams andthe leather tanning process. Sales of this uniquepigments are all part of this constantly expanding

product doubled in 2015 vs. 2014 and it is becoming

range of products. The STAHL EVO portfolio is ZDHC

an increasingly common choice for customers who

MRSL-compliant and the products also allow customers

value a simpler, more sustainable tanning process

to eliminate the use of DMF in their process, reducing

without compromising on the quality of the leather.

water and energy consumption at the same time. Salesof STAHL EVO products tripled in 2015 vs. 2014 and we
expect the strong growth to continue as our customers

Proviera® Probiotics for Leather™
The early (‘beamhouse’) stage of the leather processswitch away from solvent based products.

Stahl invests significant resources in ourrequires the use of chemicals to clean and prepare

R&D labs around the world. With 9 R&D centers,

the hide for tanning. Proviera® Probiotics for Leather™

Powder Coatings

are metabolites derived from controlled fermentation

Homes and workplaces are increasingly being

employing 90 technical staff, much of our researchusing natural ingredients. The use of these products

furnished with natural materials. As architects andis focused on sustainable solutions for customers.

can reduce the effluent load during the cleaning processinterior designers opt for sustainable materials, theseAn ambitious approach to green product innovation

while improving leather quality. Stahl has acquired

spaces also contain fewer products that are harmful

is what is driving our sales growth.

the exclusive rights to promote and sell the Proviera

to your health. Powder coatings for wood are a good

Probiotics for Leather™ product range into the industry.

example, as they are free of heavy metals and have®

zero volatile organic content. In July 2015, Stahl entered
Green PolyMatte®
Stahl’s PolyMatte® technology is built aroundwater-based polyurethanes which form a matt andsmooth surface structure during the film forming of
coatings. It is used extensively by Stahl customers

into a joint venture with OEM NuTech, an innovator in
powder coatings for heat sensitive surfaces. Like Stahl,
OEM NuTech has a strong focus on sustainability andtheir eco-friendly coatings are now a key part of Stahl’s
portfolio in the architectural coatings segment.

in the coatings and leather industries respectively.
As part of the PolyMatte® portfolio of products, StahlBiobased Polyurethanes

has developed green PolyMatte® which is partially

Designing water-based polyurethanes using renewable

based on renewable plant-based resources instead

raw materials is not new. Stahl has introduced severalof traditional petroleum based materials. Its soft feel

products based on this idea and bio-content levels ofand matt surface properties have been maintained.

35% can be achieved. Our vision, however, goes beyond
that: we have begun working on high-performance

Stahlite®
The Stahlite® system of products enables customers

polyurethanes which contain over 80% bio-content.
More to come on this breakthrough technology in 2016.

to reduce the weight of leather while maintaining its
full thickness. By using carefully selected processing
chemicals, no concessions are made to the tearstrength and natural look and feel of the leather.
Lower weight leather has obvious benefits in theautomotive and aircraft industries as 20-30% weight
reduction vs. regular processed leather can be achieved.
Sales of Stahlite® are growing steadily.

18 Sustainability Report 2015 | Table of contents | The Stahl Sutainability Standard | Index

19

Code of Conduct
Stahl has an active Code of Conduct policy which isin the same period. These ratios are reasonable andbeing implemented throughout the supply chain. Thisin line with the market for the kind of activities andCode of Conduct ensures that human rights and thethe location in which they take place. The turnoverenvironment are respected by our partners. Related torate over 2015 was 9.7%. Stahl is an equal opportunity

this, a whistleblower policy is in place with clear rules

employer in all its locations worldwide.

that allow employees to report suspicious behavior that

People& Societycould be in conflict with the Code of Conduct, with theTraining

necessary protection guarantee for the whistleblower

Stahl’s international management training program,in question. There were no incidents of corruption

initiated in 2013 and extended after the Clariant Leather

during 2015.

Services Business acquisition, was completed in early2016. The program involved 123 middle management

Workforce

employees from around the world and was focused

85% of Stahl’s employees are on permanent contracts.

on leadership and general management skills. It was

Its workforce is 78% male and 22% female. Total Fullwidely viewed as a positive initiative for the company

Time Equivalents (FTE) leaving (dismissals andand a source of motivation for the staff.

resignations) during 2015 were 153 and 190 joined

The foundation of Stahl’s success is its workforce.
Full-time employees as of December 31, by region

Stahl employs 1780 people in 23 countries at
11 manufacturing sites and 37 laboratories.
We encourage trust, honesty, personal growth,
innovation, creativity and team work among
our workforce.

2000

2000

1500

1500

1000

1000

500

500

22%

22%

78%

FemaleFemale

78%
Male

Male

0

0
2014
Americas

Ratio of Male-Female employees

India and Pakistan

2015

2014
AmericasAsia-PacificIndia and Pakistan

2015
Asia-Pacific

EMEA

EMEA

“ Stahl is an equal
opportunity employer in all its
locations worldwide.”

20 Sustainability Report 2015 | Table of contents | The Stahl Sutainability Standard | Index

21

Sustainable Industrial Development

Community Projects

Aside from our commercial activities around the world, Stahl experts

Stahl recognizes the importance of continuous engagement with the local communities located aroundare also involved in non-profit activities in emerging countries.

its operations, laboratories and offices. There are many activities at the Stahl sites around the world which
demonstrate our contribution to the well-being of the people who live nearby. Some highlights:

UNIDO
The mission of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization(UNIDO) is to promote and accelerate inclusive and sustainable industrial
development (ISID) in developing countries and economies in transition.
Stahl and UNIDO are collaborating on projects which involve the promotionof sustainable practices in the leather industry, for example in Bangladesh
and Pakistan.

PUM
PUM is a Dutch organization that links small and medium sized companies
in developing countries to experienced professional experts in orderto improve sustainability and combat poverty in those regions. Stahl
and PUM have begun to work together on projects for the leather sector.
This partnership involves Stahl experts travelling voluntarily to thecountry in question with PUM country staff and visiting tanneries that
require the technical skills and service that the Stahl technicians can offer.

Talent Incubator Program

Education support

Mobility for peoplein Stahl Mexicoand training in India

in need (Stahl Italy)

Stahl Mexico offers scholarships

The Vanapadi Middle School is

Stahl cooperates with PMG, an

and internships for students fromlocated in the neighborhood of one

association working with the local

different universities such as Laof the Stahl sites in India. We support(Palazzolo) municipality to assist in

Salle, Tecnológico de Monterrey,

this school with equipment like tube

the mobility and transport of disabled

Universidad Tecnológica del Vallelights, fans, an audio system andchildren and people in need. Activity

de Toluca, Universidad del Valle decomputer technology. Stahl also

is mainly focused on transport to

Toluca and Universidad de Guanajuato,sponsors improvements to the school

school in the mornings and to social

through the Stahl Talent Incubatorbuilding, such as the extension ofcenters in the afternoons but also on(STI) program. The STI offers real

the sanitary installations and a new

supporting the families, promoting

work environment for students inwater tank with a Reverse Osmosis

social involvement and integration

the final phase of their degree.

(RO) filter system. Stahl India is alsoof the disadvantaged in general.

This is coordinated via ANIQ (National

involved in many local initiatives,

Two minibuses/drivers, equipped withSociety for the Chemical Industry).

such as vocational training and an

voluntary helpers, are made available

environmental awareness program

to the municipality every day forfor a nearby village community.

the required travel schedules.

ADUU MAL
Designed by renowned Dutch fashion designer Hans Ubbink, ADUU MAL
is the result of Stahl’s cooperation with the Mongolian Government, theDutch government, MIM (Made in Mongolia) and other fashion companies
to support Mongolian tanneries in establishing a more sustainable industry.
Since the partnership started in 2013, more Mongolian tanners are using
technologies with reduced environmental footprint. Leather tanners
who participate in the project can tag their products with the Mongolian
sustainability label: ADUU MAL. This product label signals to consumers
that the leather article was produced in a sustainable way in Mongolia,
i.e.: tanners were trained on processing horse hides that would not haveGold Medal Award in Singapore

University cooperation in China

Donations in Stahl Brazil

been tanned otherwise, wastewater was purified and reused and tannery

Stahl Singapore was proud to receive

Stahl China established a program

On an annual basis, Stahl employees

employees, tailors and shoemakers receive fair wages under goodthe Gold Medal Award from Singapore

with leather specialized universities

donate clothes to different voluntary

working conditions.

HEALTH for the second time. The

in China. Stahl sponsors theseorganizations in Portão which are

Singapore HEALTH (Helping Employees

universities with scholarships anddedicated to helping the less

Achieve Lifetime Health) Award isorganizes technical lectures forfortunate. This year food, water,presented annually to give national

students interested in leather

clothes, mattresses and cleaning

recognition to organizations withprocessing. We also provide the top

material were collected for peoplecommendable workplace healthstudents from these universities andisplaced due to floods in the

promotion programs.

opportunity to attend a two-weeksouthern regions of the country.

practical training session on leather
manufacturing in the Stahl Guangzhou
Technical Center.

22 Sustainability Report 2015 | Table of contents | Index

23

Financial Performance
Sales

Sales 2014 vs. 2015 per business tube (reported in EUR ‘000)
600.0002015 was the first full
financial year since the

Performance Coatings& Polymers

600.000
400.000

acquisition and successful
integration of Clariant’s

Wet-End Chemicals
Performance Coatings& Polymers Leather
Automotive

400.000
200.000

Leather Services Business.
The results shown are on a
proforma basis and include
Clariant’s 2014 sales.

Strategic Business Units (SBUs)
Stahl’s strategic global business units

Stahl has 2 SBUs focused exclusively

Stahl has 2 divisions dedicatedare managed centrally and each one hason providing products and services

to the industrial coatings

dedicated commercial and technicalfor the final step in the leather

market:service staff located around the world:process:

Wet-End Chemicals andLeather Finish

Performance Coatings

Dyes for Leather

With nearly a century of experience

Stahl’s fastest growing businessThis division is focused on providing

around the globe, Stahl is theunit, this division is focused on

products and services for theundisputed leader in leather finishingproviding custom-made solutions

beamhouse (rawhide treatment),

technology and is renowned for its

for almost any type of surface, bothtanning and retanning steps of thequality and ‘Golden Hands’ technicians.

flexible and rigid.

Automotive Leather Chemicals

PielColor

Polymers

Stahl is the market leader for the

The second brand in the Stahl group,

Founded as Picassian in 2005,

process chemicals and finishingfounded in 1977 in Spain, PielColor

Stahl Polymers supplies raw

technology used to manufacture

provides leather finishes to its

materials to coatings manufacturers

automotive leather. This divisionclients with an emphasis on fashion

across several segments.

is focused on providing highand technical service.

Chemicals
Wet-End Chemicals

200.000
0
2014

2015

Leather Finishing
Automotive Leather
Chemicals
Leather Finishing

0
2014

2015

Sales 2014 vs. 2015 per region (reported in EUR ‘000)
Southeast Asia
& Pacific

600.000

Greater China
Southeast Asia
& Pacific
India,
Pakistan

600.000
400.000

400.000
200.000

200.000
0
2014

2015

& BangladeshGreater China
EMEA
India, Pakistan& BangladeshSouth& Central
America
EMEA
North America
South & Central
America
North America

0
2014

2015

leather manufacturing process.

performance solutions for car
leather applications.

24 Sustainability Report 2015 | Table of contents | Index

25

Management Team
Our senior management team consists of ten members representing the business units,finance, operations, procurement, R&D and marketing and includes the Group CEO.
The management team conducts formal meetings on a monthly basis where the strategy
and performance of the company are discussed.

Huub van Beijeren
Chief Executive Officer

Harald Bauer
Group Director Wet-End Chemicals and Dyes

“I believe the most effective contribution that Stahl can make to society“The recent success of Stahl’s effluent-reducing products like Stahl EasyWhite Tan™ for

is by working tirelessly with our partners in the supply chain to promote

leather processing is proof that the industry is committed to a truly sustainable model.”transparency and sustainability. This is our mission.”

Bram Drexhage
Chief Financial Officer

Xavier Rafols
Group Director Leather Finish“Stahl’s commitment to Corporate Responsibility is directly linked to our“Above all Stahl is a customer-driven organization and our customers are demanding

financial performance. Being responsible affects the bottom line today andproducts and services which exceed the current standards for performance andadds value in the long term.”

environmental compliance. We are passionate about satisfying their needs.”

Guido Borgart
Group Director Operations & Supply LineMark ChatwoodGroup Director Automotive Leather Chemicals“The Safety and Health of our employees and the protection of our environment“People still love the touch and feel of leather in their cars and they expect consistently

is completely integrated into our daily activities, and is the responsibility ofhigh performance over the lifetime of the vehicle. This is precisely the value that Stahleveryone in the company.”

provides and we are committed to doing it in a sustainable way.”

Ralph Günther Blach
Group Director R&D and Technical Application

Uwe Siebgens
Group Director Performance Coatings & Polymers“Every new product concept that comes across my desk is directly linked to“We are constantly thinking outside the box, offering new concepts like STAHL EVO

improving the environmental footprint of our customers.”

to our customers to replace conventional coatings technology. Sustainability isdriving this innovative thinking.”

Jacques PotierGroup Director Procurement

John FletcherGroup Director Marketing & Brand Sales“The ongoing sustainability conversation with our suppliers has moved beyond“The big consumer brands in fashion and interior design have begun to implement

discussions about green chemistry: now we discuss supply-chain transparency,

sustainable business practices throughout their supply chains. Stahl’s technology allows

water consumption, carbon dioxide emissions, codes of conduct and much more.”them to improve the environmental footprint of the industry in practical and lasting ways.”

26 Sustainability Report 2015 | Table of contents | Index

27

Global Presence
Our long-standing commitment to providing local technicalservice for our customers is also driving the promotion ofsustainable products and practices around the world.

Corporate Headquarters:
Waalwijk, the Netherlands

Manufacturing Sites (11):The Netherlands, Germany, Italy,
Spain, USA, Mexico, Brazil, India (2),Singapore, China

R&D Centres (9):FranceUSA

Spain

The Netherlands, Germany, Italy, Spain,
Mexico, Brazil, India, Singapore, China

Netherlands
Germany
Italy

Pakistan

MexicoThe Netherlands, Germany, Italy (5),India

Spain (2), France, USA, Mexico (2),Japan, Thailand, Indonesia, Bangladesh,

South Korea

Bangladesh

Applications Labs (37)Brazil, India (6), Singapore, China (2),

Japan

China

TurkeyThailand

Ethiopia

Colombia

Singapore

Pakistan (4), Turkey (2), Ethiopia,
Argentina, Uruguay, Colombia

Indonesia

BrasilUruguayArgentina

28 Sustainability Report 2015 | Table of contents | Index

29Index

ChapterContent

1

Message from the CEO

5

2

3
4

5

Page

ChapterContent

6

Trusted Partnerships

Page
16

Highlights 2015

6

ZDHC

17

SHE campaign

6Spin 360 Life Cycle Assessment

17

Joint Venture with OEM NuTech

6

SLEM

17

Agreement with Proviera® Probiotics for Leather™

6

CSR Netherlands

17

Automotive Excellence Center

6

UN Global Compact

17

Significant growth in sales of Stahl’s sustainable product range

7

Education Initiatives

17

Leather Working Group

17

Innovative Solutions

18

External assessment of Stahl’s Sustainability Performance

7

Stahl Campus® expands

7

7

Sustainability Goal

8

Stahl EasyWhite Tan

19

The Stahl Sustainability Standard

9

Proviera® Probiotics for Leather™

19

Raw Materials

10

Green PolyMatte®

19

Supplier Partnerships

11

Stahlite®

19

Restricted Substances

11

STAHL EVO

19

Stahl Restricted Substance List

11

Powder Coatings

19

Biobased Polyurethanes

19

People & Society

20

ZDHC Manufactured Restricted Substance List

11

Responsible Operations

12

™

8

SHE Policy

13

HR Key Performance Indicators

21

SHE Organization and Reporting

13

Sustainable Industrial Development

22

SHE Campaign

13

UNIDO

22

Safety Key Performance Indicators

14

PUM

22

CO2 Emissions

14

ADUU MAL

22

Environmental Key Performance Indicators

15

Community Projects

23

Water

15

9

Financial Performance

24

Waste

15

10

Management Team

26

Energy15

11

Global Presence

28

30 Sustainability Report 201531

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The information provided herein is not intended to form part of any offer or contract for the sale. Pictures, descriptions andstatements are only artistic impressions and they are not representations of fact. STAHL does not warrant the accuracy andcorrectness of the information and will not be responsible in any way for any inaccuracy or omission of information herein,
as well as for changes in colors and printing errors, or for any loss suffered by any person as a result of relying on the information.