Sustainability
Report2016

Stahl Holdings bv

Contents

2 Sustainability Report 2016

5 Message
from the CEO

20

Innovative
Solutions6

Highlights
2016

22

People& Society8

Sustainability Definition,
Strategy and Implementation

26

Financial
Performance

10

Raw
Materials

28

Management
Team

12

Responsible
Operations

30

Stahl
Campus®

18

TrustedPartnerships

32

GlobalPresence3

Message from the CEO
I am once again very pleased to present our latest
Sustainability Report which provides an overview ofStahl’s activities in 2016.
Sustainability is already a key element of Stahl’s corporate
strategy and in 2016 we made significant strides towards
our goal of achieving a more transparent supply chain.

“Our commitment toenvironmental and social
responsibility is part ofeverything we do”

Our commitment to environmental and social responsibility
is part of everything we do. Indeed, during my own travels
around the world, I have seen firsthand that sustainability
has become the primary topic of conversation with ourcustomers and industry partners. Stahl believes thatsustainability evolves as a result of transparency and ourstrategy is built around this belief. In 2016, we organized
events specifically designed to promote transparency andtraceability within our industry and we will continue to do

These are exciting and challenging times for ourso in 2017.

industry and sustainability represents a great
opportunity for Stahl to create a better future,

Our company constantly strives to reduce thevia further investment and growth.

environmental footprint of our activities. In 2016,
we continued the expansion of targeted product lines
designed to minimize the environmental impact ofBest regards,

our industry. In line with the Paris Climate Agreement,
Stahl also established a 10% reduction target for its CO2
emissions by the year 2020 and progress towards thatgoal has already been made. The benefits of the 2-year
Safety Awareness Campaign that we launched in late 2015

Huub van Beijeren

became apparent in 2016. Furthermore, Stahl completedCEO

several acquisitions and technology agreements which
underline our long term commitment to sustainablebusiness growth.

4 Sustainability Report 20165

Highlights 2016
	Safety Awareness campaign
for sustainable growth	ISO 50001 Certification
for Leinfelden	Significant growth of Stahl products designed
to reduce environmental footprint

Stahl rolled out a 2-year worldwide Safety Awareness Campaign in

Stahl Leinfelden earned ISO 50001 certification

The double-digit growth in sales of our STAHL EVO products for synthetic materials and the successful global introduction of2015 and this continued in 2016. Consisting of twelve eight-week

in 2016. This certification requires a company tothe parallel Stahl Neo leather finish portfolio were important commercial highlights in 2016. These two product ranges are fully

campaigns, each with its own theme and linked to the 10 Golden

demonstrate continuous improvement with regard tocompliant with the Manufacturing Restricted Substances List (MRSL) launched in 2015 by the ZDHC Foundation. The widespread

Rules of Safety, the goal is to eliminate the number of incidents

energy efficiency. The main benefit is energy savings,

acceptance of Proviera® - Probiotics for Leather™ and Stahl’s EasyWhite Tan™ was another key milestone. Both products contributewithin our company. We consider this initiative a critical element

which in turn leads to reduced CO2 emissions.

to a significant improvement in the environmental footprint of the leather manufacturing process - a fact that has been recognized1

2of our strategy for sustainable growth.

by key players in the industry. Stahl expects significant growth for these products over the coming years.

	New Centersof Excellence	Stahl Campus®
expansion

Stahl opened a new Center of Excellence for

Stahl Campus®, the global knowledge center established in

In October of 2016, Stahl became a value chain

Shoe & Leather goods in Castelfranco di Sotto,

The Netherlands (Waalwijk) in 2014 and in Mexico (León) inaffiliate of the Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals

Italy, in January 2016. This facility is designed toApril 2016 was expanded to China (Guangzhou in August 2016).

(ZDHC) Foundation. This foundation aims to harmonize

inspire our customers and partners by showcasing

The goal of Stahl Campus® is to promote good practices andstandards across the textile and footwear value chain

sustainable innovations for the fashion industry.

transparency in the supply chain. Stahl invites customers,

and to encourage better chemical management.

Thanks to state-of-the-art machinery andsuppliers, educational institutes, OEMs, brands and other

A key component of the ZDHC project is a usage ban

applications, we are able to create solutions

parties, to come to our specialized laboratories and improveon specific chemicals. By joining the ZDHC Foundation,

for the leather manufacturing process fromtheir knowledge through training. Stahl Campus is a key part

Stahl has officially committed itself to the elimination

raw hides to finished leather and aftercare.

of the implementation of Stahl’s sustainability strategy.

of these substances from the value chain by 2020.

3

4

 istribution rights forD
Proviera® - Probiotics
for Leather™

	External assessmentof sustainability
performance

5

In February 2016, Stahl acquired the rights to distribute Proviera®

In 2016, Stahl’s four European manufacturing sites- Probiotics for Leather™, a biodegradable product range developed

received Higg Index scores of 77, 88, 80 and 83

to improve the environmental footprint of leather production.

respectively (out of 100). The Higg Index is a self-

Using a unique probiotic formulation, these products provide a

assessment tool developed by the Sustainable

natural alternative to synthetic chemicals and enable leather

Apparel Coalition which promotes transparency inmanufactures to significantly reduce their water effluent load.

the supply chain. In addition, Stahl received a silver
rating from EcoVadis, another recognizedmethodology in the industry.

6 Sustainability Report 2016

6

7

8

®

9

ZDHC membership	CO2 target

10 ReVeal event

We aligned ourselves with the 2015

Stahl joined forces with livestock trading company PALI

Paris Climate agreement by establishingGroup, Vitelco, Rompa Tanneries and Rompa Leder toa target of reducing CO2 emissions bybring full transparency and traceability to the leather

10% by 2020. This will be achieved

supply chain. This initiative, called ‘ReVeal’, focussed on

by focusing on the three sources ofall stages of the production process from calf to designer

emission linked to our activities: what isbag. During the event, it was demonstrated to consumer

burned at our manufacturing sites, whatbrands, tanners and NGOs how sustainable, high-quality

is purchased as energy and business

Dutch calf leather can be produced for leather goods,

travel (air travel and motor vehicles).

footwear and garments.

7

Implementation: the Stahl Sustainability Standard
To achieve our sustainability goal, we have identified five focus areas:� Raw Materials - suppliers and the products and services they provide� Responsible Operations - all activities associated with our laboratories, offices and manufacturing sites� Trusted Partnerships - cooperation with third parties throughout the supply chain� Innovative Solutions - the products and services that we offer to our customers� People & Society - employees and the communities around us

Sustainability
Definition, Strategy
and Implementation
Our definition of sustainability:� The promotion of environmentally and socially responsible practices throughout the supply chain�	The use of natural and renewable resources wherever possible, as long as the environmental impactof their use is favorable� The reduction of Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions at our own facilities and at our customers

People& Society
Raw
Materials

Innovative
Solutions

The Stahl
Sustainability
Standard(as per the Paris Climate Agreement)

Responsible
Operations

Our sustainability goal and strategy:�	Our primary goal is to achieve a more transparent and sustainable supply chain in the industries
in which we participate�	By stimulating cooperation in the supply chain, we believe sustainability evolves as a consequence

8 Sustainability Report 2016

TrustedPartnerships

9

Renewable raw materials

substances and act ahead of time.

launched by the ZDHC Foundation,

The promotion of natural andThis means that our suppliers are also

we took pro-active action with ourrenewable resources as raw materials

made fully aware of the restrictions

own Stahl Restricted Substances

is implicit in Stahl’s definition of

on substances contained in the

List (RSL). Stahl’s RSL ensures thatsustainability. As a result, we havematerials they provide.

substances on the list cannot be
used in the development of any

implemented internal policies that

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

ensure all newly developed products

ZDHC MRSL

new products within our company.

contain renewable raw materials

In October of 2016, Stahl became

This list contains substances thatwhenever this is possible anda value chain affiliate of the Zero

we believe will be restricted on thefeasible. An example of this is our

Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals

various industry MRSLs and also thosesuccessful development of bio-based(ZDHC) foundation. Founded in 2011

deemed undesirable in the future.

polyurethane dispersions. Overby major apparel and footwear brands

This has implications for our suppliers

the course of 2016, this project has

and retailers, ZDHC members have aand they are informed continuously

progressed to the point that the firstshared commitment to help lead theabout our policy via updated lists ofcommercial products are already inindustry towards zero discharge ofpotentially restricted materials.

the launch phase. By the end of 2017,

hazardous chemicals by 2020. In

we expect to have a range of bio-based

2015 the ZDHC launched its own

products commercially available withMRSL (Manufacturing Restricted

Business Partner Code of Conduct

a particular focus on the automotive

Substances List) for leather andStahl is committed to theindustry.

synthetic substrates, a major

highest standards of social andmilestone for the industry. This

environmental responsibility and

MRSL differs from a RSL in that it

ethical conduct as described in our

Restricted Substances

includes substances that are used

Business Partner Code of Conduct.

A fundamental element of mostduring the processing of leather and

We require all our business partners

companies’ chemical management

synthetic materials, not just thoseto comply with our ethical standards

system is a Restricted Substances

found in the final product. Stahl has

and operate in accordance with the

List (RSL). For clothing or footwear

prepared ZDHC MRSL-compliant

principles in this Code of Conduct.

brands, for example, the RSL is at

product ranges and it is working

In addition, we expect our businessthe heart of their business, in that itwith the ZDHC foundation towards

partners, including suppliers,

ensures that specific substances

our common goal.

to comply with the UN Global

By eliminating restricted substances and using
naturally occurring raw materials, we can makereal changes in the industry.

Compact Guiding Principles in theare not present in their final articles.

10 Sustainability Report 2016

Stahl works closely with consumer

Stahl RSL

areas of human rights, labor, thebrands in the supply chain to

Next to adhering to the Manufacturing

environment and anti-corruption.

anticipate restrictions on chemical

Restricted Substances List (MRSL)

11

SHE: Safety, Health and Environment

SHE Organization and Reporting

Stahl’s SHE policy is to manage all activities without

All General Managers and Local Managers are responsible

hurting anyone, annoying our neighbors or harming

for compliance with Stahl’s SHE policy and principles inthe environment. Driving this policy are the following

the areas under their control. This responsibility includes

key principles:systems for the recognition of hazards, assessment ofrisks and provision of effective controls.

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

Responsible
Operations

� O
bey all laws and be a responsible corporate citizen
� I
dentify hazards and establish appropriate controls
for risks, potential adverse environmental impact andregulatory requirements in the invention, manufacture,sale and use of our products
� Provide customer care with all products throughout
the supply chain
� E
liminate all injuries, occupational illnesses andenvironmental incidents
� Report and investigate all incidents, then take corrective
action and share learnings

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 for� Define SHE requirements in simple, clear terms

Stahl. We have a number of policies and initiatives

and communicate them to all employees andin place to ensure continuous improvement.

secure their involvement
� Report, monitor and audit all aspects of SHE

SHE Awareness Campaign: Be Sure, It’s Secure!

performance to confirm compliance and planned

In September of 2015, Stahl rolled out an ambitious,

continual improvement

2-year worldwide Safety Awareness Campaign with the� Celebrate and reward excellence in SHE performancegoal of zero incidents within our company. This campaign

� Require all employees to accept personal responsibility

continued in 2016 and consists of twelve eight-week

for their own safety and health and that of theircampaign themes linked to the 10 Golden Rules of Safety.

colleagues

12 Sustainability Report 201613

10 Golden Safety Rules
1	My behavior does not create hazardous situations
for myself or my colleagues.
2	I know the Stahl SHE guidelines and I behave
according to them.
3	I follow the procedures for safe work permits and high

ISO Norms
8	I never block emergency exits, showers, fire

Most of our manufacturing sites are ISO 9001 and ISO

The benefits of ISO 50001 are the reduced

extinguishers or other safety equipment.

14001 certified. In 2016 Stahl Leinfelden achieved ISO

environmental impact associated with energy

9	I only use proper tools designed for the specific task.

50001 certification. ISO 50001 supports organizations insavings and the fulfillment of legal requirements

10	I only operate machines/equipment for which

all sectors in their efforts to use energy more efficiently

like the European Energy Efficiency Directive.

I am trained.

by developing an energy management system. Continuous

risk work permits, like entering confined spaces etc.

improvement is the standard’s basic philosophy.

4	I only open electrical cabinets if I am authorized bya valid certificate. I always close the cabinet when
I am finished.

Environmental Key Performance Indicators5	I always use the required Personal Protective Equipment

Stahl is continuously upgrading its manufacturing sites,

have many ongoing projects to optimize these KPIs.

(PPE), indicated on the safety data sheet, when I am

R&D Centers and Application Labs to improve efficiency

In recent years, we have also made significant

handling chemicals.

and reduce our environmental footprint. We measure andimprovements in waste prevention, owing to tighter

6	I only operate the vehicles for which I have a certificate.

report CO2, energy, water and waste consumption at our

portfolio management and improved processes.

7	I always drive the fork lift truck (FLT) safely and in casemanufacturing sites internally on a monthly basis andof any defect I stop the FLT immediately and report
the problem.

Safety Key Performance Indicators
To achieve our goal of eliminating all injuries, occupational illnesses and environmental incidents, Stahl reports on
key performance indicators to track our progress. The scope of the Safety KPIs below includes all Stahl employees.

			

2016

2015

2014

2013

Frequency rate of accidents with lost work time*

0.08

0.14

0.15

0.08

Severity rate of accidents**

0.45

3.80

5.55

0.97

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

14 Sustainability Report 2016

“Our goal is to eliminate all
injuries, occupational illnesses
and environmental incidents”

15

CO2 Emissions Target

EnergyIn 2016, Stahl aligned itself with the 2015 Paris Climate

on the three sources of emissions linked to our activities:

Agreement by establishing a target of reducing CO2

what is burned at our manufacturing sites, purchased

emissions by 10% by 2020. This will be achieved by focusing

energy and business travel (air travel, company cars).

Energy consumption per tons produced
0.003
0.002

C02 Emissions

0.001

20161

			

2015*

0.003

14,391

14,871-3%

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

17,70017,823-1%

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

3,335

3,605

-7%

Total tons CO2-eq.		

35,42636,299-2%

CO2 emissions per tons produced

0.17

0.19

4%

4%
0.002

26%

0.001

2016

2016 vs 2015

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

Energy Sources

0

2015

0

2016

26%
40%

30%

19.7%

30.3%

Burned energy
on-site***Business travel

50.0%

Purchased electricity
and steam****

1

Corrected data to compare like-for-like with 2016.
Scope 1: Direct GHG Emissions are those that originate from sources owned
or operationally controlled by the company: company-owned orleased cars, other company vehicles, gas and oil used on site.
Scope 2: Electricity Indirect Emission Sources: are those pertaining
to purchased energy (in the form of electricity, steam, heat andcooling) from the grid or district heating or cooling systems.
Scope 3: Other Indirect Emission Sources: are those which pertain tocompany activity, yet are not sources or controlled by thecompany: business travel.
In 2016 Stahl France (Grauhlet) and Stahl USA (Calhoun) were notincluded in the scope of this KPI

40%

30%

Oil
Gas

Steam
Oil
Gas

Electricity
Electricity

2015

Coal (not used)
Coal (not used)

Energy (TJ)
Energy (TJ)

Water

Water consumption per tons produced
*
**

Steam

2

2

1

1

0

Water Sources

350,746350,746
510,349510,349
m3
m3m3
m3

0

2016

2016

2015

2015

Water consumption
Water consumption
Water usage
Water usage

Water
(m )
)
Water (m
3

3

Waste

C02 Reduction Projects 2016
Waste per tons produced

� I
n 2016, Stahl Germany (Leinfelden) earned an ISO 50001 certification. This certification requires a philosophy ofcontinuous improvement with regards to energy use, the fulfillment of legal requirements such as the European Energy
Efficiency Directive and the proper management of energy contracts with suppliers. The main benefit of this significant
achievement is energy savings, which in turn leads to reduced CO2 emissions.

Waste Types

0,06
0,06 0,06
17%
17% 17%

0,04
0,04 0,04

� L
ong-term capital expenditure proposals related to using renewable power sources at our
manufacturing sites have been drafted.

0,02
0,02 0,02

2016
2016 2016

� I
ncentives for using more fuel-efficient company vehicles are being applied in selected cases.
� I
n 2016, a campaign was launched to provide practical advice on how to reduce CO2 emissionin our offices and plants.

00

83%
83% 83%

Non-Hazardous
Non-Hazardous
Non-Hazardous
waste
waste waste
Hazardous
Hazardous
Hazardous
waste
waste waste

2015
2015 2015

0
Waste
Waste
Waste
(tons)(tons) (tons)

These KPIs have been audited by Ernst & Young.

16 Sustainability Report 201617

Trusted
Partnerships

The ZDHC Foundation

The Leather Working GroupTEGEWAIn October of 2016, Stahl became

The objective of this multi-stakeholder

TEGEWA is a group of chemical

an affiliate of the Zero Discharge

group is to developand maintainmanufacturers supplying the leather,of Hazardous Chemicals (ZDHC)an audit protocol that assesses

textile and paper industries. Stahl isFoundation. In 2011, a group of

the environmental compliance ofan active member of this association,

major apparel and footwear brands

tanners and to promote sustainable

whose purpose is to identify, review

and retailers - all members of thepractices in the leather processing

and make recommendations on topics

ZDHC Foundation - made a sharedindustry. It is the group’s objective

relevant for the industry. In 2016

commitment to help lead theto work transparently, involving

members took action regarding theclothing industry towards zerobrands, suppliers, retailers, leading

topic of safety, health and chemical

discharge of hazardous chemicals

technical experts within the leather

management by launching the Safety

by the year 2020. The apparel andindustry, NGOs and other stakeholders.

Guidelines for Chemicals at Tanneries.

footwear value chain is long and

Stahl is an active member of this group

This campaign will continue into 2017

complex and the ZDHC Foundationand committed itself to the same goals

with the goal of reducing incidents

cooperates closely with its members toof promoting transparency and bestand improving the working conditions

promote industry-wide change. With

practices to the leather industry.

of leather tannery workers aroundthis affiliation to the ZDHC

Meetings are held twice a year.

the world.

Cooperation with universities

ReVealStahl recognizes that effective

Stahl joined forces with livestock

Foundation, Stahl has officially

By stimulating cooperation in the supply chain,joined them in their commitment.

we believe sustainability evolves as a consequence.
This chapter highlights some of the projects that

Tannery of the Futurewater management is a criticaltrading company PALI Group, Vitelco,

Stahl is working on with industry associations,

Stahl sponsors the ‘Tannery offactor in achieving a more

Rompa Tanneries and Rompa Leder

the Future’, a comprehensive selfsustainable leather industry andto bring full transparency andassessment tool for tanneries,

this will require water technology

traceability to the leather supply

wholesalers, fashion brands andexpertise. Stahl has initiated water-

chain. This initiative, called ‘ReVeal’,retailers. Fourteen CSR criteria (e.g.

related projects with the University

focussed on all stages of thehousekeeping, waste management,of Wageningen (The Netherlands) andproduction process from calf toworking conditions wages), are

the University of Stuttgart (Germany).

designer bag. During the event,assessed and rated, with the goal

Stahl cooperates with over thirty

it was demonstrated to consumerof improving the performance ofdifferent universities and colleges

brands, tanners and NGOs how

the company in question.

around the world, on a wide range

sustainable, high-quality Dutchof projects. We actively promotecalf leather can be produced

cooperation with higher education

for leather goods, footwear

institutions in order to secure talentand garments.

universities and other partners.

for the future and maintain ourleadership position in technology.

18 Sustainability Report 201619

Leather Chemicals & Finishing

Bio-based Polyurethanes

Stahl Neoresources as raw materials has driven innovation in

The policy of promoting the use of natural and renewable

The successful global introduction of the Stahl Neo portfolio
for leather finishing - was a milestone in 2016. Stahl Neo
products not only comply with the Manufacturing Restricted
Substances List (MRSL) released by the ZDHC Foundation in

Innovative
Solutions

December 2015, but they also do not contain any of thesubstances on the list.

bio-based polyurethane research. Our Green PolyMatte®
was successfully commercialized in 2016. By the end of
2017, we expect to have a range of high-performancebio-based products commercially available for launch,with a particular focus on the automotive industry.

Performance Coatings & Polymers

Proviera® - Probiotics for Leather™
The early stage of the leather process requires the use

STAHL EVO

of chemicals to clean and prepare the hide for tanning.

STAHL EVO is our new generation of top coats, skins,

Proviera® - Probiotics for Leather™ are metabolites derived

adhesives, foams and pigments for synthetic materials.

from controlled fermentation using natural ingredients. The

The STAHL EVO portfolio is fully compliant with ZDHC’s

use of these products can reduce the effluent load during

Manufacturing Restricted Substances List (MRSL).

the cleaning process while improving leather quality. In 2015

The products also allow customers to eliminate the

Stahl acquired the rights to commercialize the Proviera -use of DMF in their process, reducing water and energy

With eleven R&D Centers, employing a technical

Probiotics for Leather™ product range and its widespread

consumption at the same time. The double-digit growthstaff of ninety people, much of our research isacceptance in 2016 was an important milestone.

in sales of the STAHL EVO was an important commercial®

highlight in 2016 and we expect significant growth forfocused on developing sustainable solutions for

Stahl EasyWhite Tan™

customers. Our ambitious approach to product

The main environmental benefit of using the Stahl EasyWhite

innovation is what drives our sales growth.

Tan™ system is the significant reduction in consumption of

Carbodiimide Crosslinkers

water, salt and energy during the leather tanning process.

The usage of polycarbodiimide crosslinkers in coatings is

The widespread acceptance of Stahl EasyWhite Tan™ in 2016

growing, largely owing to Stahl’s water-based and VOC-freeshows that it is becoming an increasingly common choice fortechnology. Carbodiimides are easier to handle thancustomers who value a simpler tanning process without

traditional crosslinkers and their outstanding performancecompromising the quality of the leather.

is described in a recent white paper published by Stahlthese products in the coming years.

Polymers in 2016. These patented products are an excellent
Stahl EasyBlue Tan™

building block for the design of environmentally-friendly

Stahl EasyBlue Tan™ simultaneously offers high-quality

coatings systems.

leather and a simpler tanning process which saves timeand energy, while the amount of salt and chrome in waste

New Cationic technology for reducing water pollution

water is significantly reduced.

In 2016, Stahl launched Catalix® 150 and Catalix® GSX liquid:
polymer solutions for lower-impact leather processing.
The inclusion of these products in retanning formulations
significantly reduces the pollution level of water effluent.

20 Sustainability Report 201621

Codes of Conduct

Workforce

Stahl has a Code of Conduct policy that has been

In total, 85% of Stahl’s employees have permanent

implemented internally and throughout the supply

contracts. Our workforce consists of 78% men andchain (Business Partner Code of Conduct).

22% women. Total Full Time Equivalents (FTE) leaving(dismissals and resignations) during 2016 were 145 andPeople& Society
Our workforce is the foundation of our success.

Code of Conduct for Stahl employees

245 joined in the same period. These ratios are in line

Our Code of Conduct outlines what is expected of every

with the industry average. The turnover rate over 2016

single person working for Stahl. Integrity is essential in

was 10.6%. Stahl is an equal-opportunity employer inestablishing and maintaining our reputation and providing

all its locations worldwide.

high-quality services to our customers. Our objective is topreserve Stahl’s continuity via a strong financial basis.

Training

This implies balancing short- and long-term interests,

Stahl’s international management training program,with due care and respect for our customers, employees,

initiated in 2013 and extended after the Clariant Leather

shareholders and other business relations. A whistleblower

Services Business acquisition in 2014, will continue until

policy allows employees to report suspicious behavior

January 2018. By then, around 180 employees in middle

that potentially conflicts with our Code of Conduct,

management from around the world will have completed

while offering the necessary guaranteed protection

this training. The program focuses on leadership andto the whistleblower in question.

general management skills. It is widely viewed as a positive
initiative of our company and a source of motivation for ourBusiness Partner Code of Conduct

staff. In addition, follow-up masterclasses that expand

Stahl’s Business Partner Code of Conduct describes

upon the existing management training program will be

at 13 manufacturing sites, 11 R&D Centers andour commitment to the highest standards of social andorganized in 2017-2019.

38 Application Labs. We encourage trust, honesty,

environmental responsibility and ethical conduct (seeWe employ over 1,800 people in 24 countries

personal growth, innovation, creativity andteamwork among our workforce.

page 11). We ask all our business partners to comply
with the principles outlined in this Code of Conduct.

Full-time employees as of December 31

Male-Female employees

2000
2000
1500

Americas

1000

India, Pakistan and Bangladesh (IPB)

500

Asia-Pacific

1500

AmericasIndia, Pakistan and Bangladesh (IPB)

1000

78%

Male

78%

FemaleMale
FemaleEurope, Middle East & Africa (EMEA)

0
2016

2016

22 Sustainability Report 2016

22%

Asia-Pacific

500
0

22%

2015

Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA)

2015

23

Sustainable Industrial Development

United Nations Sustainable Development Goals

Aside from our commercial activities around the world,

In 2015, governments, businesses and civil society together with the United Nations began to mobilize efforts in

Stahl is involved in non-profit activities.

order to achieve the Sustainable Development Agenda and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals by the year of 2030.
Universal, inclusive and indivisible, the Agenda calls for action by all countries and companies to improve the lives ofpeople everywhere. This chapter highlights how Stahl is aligning itself to these Sustainable Development Goals.
UNIDO
2016 marked the successful launch of UNIDO’s e-learning courses designed
to promote good practices and responsible chemical management in leather
tanneries; a significant achievement and one which Stahl fully supports.
Our cooperation with UNIDO was extended again in 2016 with Stahl’s
Sustainability Roadshows, which were organized in four different cities inIndia. During these events, UNIDO also gave seminars about its industrial
development initiatives in the Indian leather clusters.

PUM
PUM is a Dutch organization that links small and medium sized companies indeveloping countries to experienced professional experts in order to improvesustainability and combat poverty in those regions. Stahl and PUM havebegun to work together on projects for the leather sector. This partnershiphas Stahl experts travelling voluntarily to the country in question together
with PUM country staff to visit tanneries that require the technical skills
and service which the Stahl technicians can provide.

Sustainability Roadshows
Stahl organizes Sustainability Roadshows around the globe with the goal of1	No poverty: Aside from local community philanthropy,
Stahl is involved in wider industrial development inachieve a 10% reduction of CO2 emissions by 2020

emerging regions, along with NGOs and local authorities.

(in line with the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement), which
implies the adoption of renewable energy sources and3	Good health and well-being: Stahl has committed to

raw materials.

initiatives that will eliminate restricted substancesfamiliarizing local professionals with Stahl’s sustainability philosophy for thefrom the supply chain, e.g. the Zero Discharge ofindustry. In 2016, Stahl hosted a series of four seminars in India’s key leather

Hazardous Chemicals Foundation.

clusters. The seminars consisted of presentations from Stahl, CLRI (Central
Leather Research Institute) and UNIDO.

7	
Affordable and clean energy: Stahl’s goal is to8	Decent work and economic growth: Stahl’s commitment
to sustainable industrial development is driven by active
projects with UNIDO, PUM and other NGOs.

4	
Quality education: Stahl Campus is a training institute®

designed to promote good practices throughout the
supply chain. Stahl also supports initiatives to promote

10	
Reduced inequalities: Code of Conduct implemented
in 2015.

the safe handling of chemicals and hosts seminars on
this topic around the world.

13	
Climate action: The goal is to achieve a 10% reductionof CO2 emissions by 2020.

5

Gender equality: Stahl is an equal-opportunity employer.
14	Life below water: Water technology is a growing area

6	Clean water and sanitation: Water technology is afor Stahl and we cooperate with leading universities

growing area for Stahl and we have active projects withon improving water effluent quality. We have also

leading universities on improving water effluent quality.

introduced effluent pollution-reducing technologies

Stahl has also introduced effluent pollution-reducing

and we host seminars on good practices for the wholetechnologies such as Proviera® - Probiotics for Leather™,

supply chain.

STAHL EVO, Catalix and Stahl EasyWhite Tan™.
®

24 Sustainability Report 201625

Financial Performance
Sales
Stahl’s achievements in

Strategic Business Units
Sales 2016 vs. 2015 per business tube (reported in EUR ‘000)
600,000

sustainability are directly
linked to our financial
performance.

600,000
400,000

Performance Coatings& Polymers

400,000
200,000

Wet-End, Chemicals& Dyes for Leather
Performance
Coatings&
Polymers Leather
Automotive

200,000
0
2016

2015

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 & Dyes

Leather Finish & Aftercare

Performance Coatings

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

providing custom-made solutions

beamhouse (rawhide treatment),finishing technology and isfor almost any type of surface,tanning and retanning steps of therenowned for its quality andboth flexible and rigid.

leather manufacturing process.

‘Golden Hands’ technicians.

Automotive Leather Chemicals

PielColor

Polymers

Stahl is the market leader for the

The second brand in the Stahl

Founded as Picassian® in 2005,

process chemicals and finishinggroup, founded in 1977 in Spain,

Stahl Polymers supplies raw materials

technology used to manufacture

PielColor provides leather finishes

to coatings manufacturers acrossautomotive leather. This division

to its clients with an emphasis on

several segments.

is focused on providing highfashion and technical service.

Chemicals
Wet-End, Chemicals& Dyes for Leather
Leather Finishing
Automotive Leather
Chemicals
Leather Finishing

0
2016

2015

Sales 2016 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
2016

2015

& BangladeshGreater China
Europe, Middle
East & Africa
India, Pakistan&
BangladeshSouth& Central
America
Europe, Middle
East & Africa
North America
South & Central
America
North America

0
2016

2015

performance solutions for car
leather applications.

26 Sustainability Report 201627

Management Team
Sustainability is integrated into our daily operations and every employee is responsible. Our Senior Management Teamconsists of ten members who represent the Business Units, Finance, Operations, Procurement, R&D and Marketingand includes the Group CEO. The management team conducts formal meetings on a monthly basis, during which it
discusses the strategy and performance of the company.

Huub van Beijeren
Chief Executive Officer

Harald Bauer
Group Director Wet-End, Chemicals & Dyes

“Our commitment to environmental and social responsibility is part of everything we do.

“The widespread acceptance of Stahl EasyWhite Tan™ and Proviera® - Probiotics for

I am very proud of the significant strides we made towards our goal of achieving a more

Leather™ shows that the leather industry is committed to a more sustainable future.”transparent supply chain.”

Bram Drexhage
Chief Financial Officer

Xavier Rafols
Group Director Leather Finish“Our financial performance is inextricably linked to our sustainability strategy.

“Our customers demand solutions that meet the standards for performance and

The significant growth in sales of Stahl products designed to reduce theenvironmental compliance. The successful introduction of our Stahl Neo leather finish portfolio

environmental footprint underlines this. Being responsible adds value.”shows that we can exceed our customers’ needs with regard to restricted substances.”

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 are essential“As people spend more time in their cars, interior design and environmental features

for Stahl. I am very pleased with the progress of our 2-year Safety Awareness Campaign in 2016.”

are becoming increasingly important. People still love the luxurious appearance of leather
and value its durability and high performance. Precisely the combination Stahl has to offer.”

Ralph-Günther Blach
Group Director R&D and Technical Application

Uwe Siebgens
Group Director Performance Coatings & Polymers“We are fully dedicated to the development of innovations that drive the growth“Sustainability drives our innovative thinking to replaceof our sales and make a real difference in reducing our environmental footprint.”

conventional coatings technology. The double-digit growth insales of STAHL EVO confirms that we are on the right path.”

Jacques PotierGroup Director Procurement

John FletcherGroup Director Marketing & Brand Services“Sustainability starts with responsible procurement. We constantly talk about this topic with

“Sustainability is a priority for big brands in fashion and interior design.

our suppliers and make sure they are fully aware of the restrictions on substances contained

We support them with tailor-made solutions to ensure that we meet theirin the materials they provide us. This allows us to make real changes in the industry together.”specific design and sustainability requirements.”

28 Sustainability Report 2016

29

CAMPUS

Stahl Campus® The Netherlands
In 2016, we welcomed 130 people from around the world- including The Netherlands, China, Turkey, India and theFoundation of Stahl Campus®
The Netherlands

Stahl Campus®
MexicoStahl Campus®
China

October 2014

April 2016

November 2016

Ukraine - to Stahl Campus® Waalwijk (the Netherlands).
We shared knowledge about good practices and sustainable

Stahl®
Campussolutions in the leather supply chain. The participants camefrom various fields of expertise and included university
students, specialized tannery staff (both Automotive and“Stahl is highly committed to sustainability, which

Fashion) and luxury fashion brand employees.

became clear to me when I visited Stahl Campus®.
They do everything they can to make products

Stahl Campus® Mexico

sustainable, while ensuring the products are also

Stahl Campus® was established in León, Mexico, in 2016.

durable. This constructive approach is highly

Mexico has the largest conglomeration of automotive

appreciated in the design world.” - Milou

tanneries in the world and it is the world’s second largest
producer of leather shoes. Since its opening in April of
2016, Stahl Campus® León has welcomed over a hundred

Stahl Campus® was first created in Waalwijk in 2014as a global knowledge center for technicians, brands,
tanners, manufacturers, OEMs and others to strengthen

people from nineteen companies. Most participants work

Director of Sustainability

in the automotive or shoe industry, although the group

Michael Costelloalso included students from several universities.

and share knowledge through training. Stahl has the

Stahl Campus® China

experience, know-how, facilities and the equipment

In August of 2016, Stahl Campus was expanded to China:

to create an ideal educational environment. In 2016,
Stahl Campus® expanded to the Americas and Asia.

Stahl Campus®
®

the No.1 leather producer in the world. Stahl Campus®
Guangzhou currently focuses on training programs
for university students. An expansion to brands andother players in the supply chain is expected in the future.
In total, 106 students participated in leather related
training during 2016 whilst another 40 attended courses
on Performance Coatings.
The Netherlands

MexicoChina

Frans van den Heuvel

Juan Antonio Frias

Karin Lee“With its open-minded strategy and by informing and teaching
all kinds of people, Stahl adds great value to the industry.
Without a doubt, they are moving in the right direction towards
the lofty goal of achieving a transparent supply chain.” - Isabel

30 Sustainability Report 201631

Global Presence
Our long-standing commitment to providing local technicalservice for our customers also drives the promotion of moresustainable products and good practices around the world.

Corporate Headquarters:
Waalwijk, The Netherlands

Stahl Campus® (3):Americas (Mexico), Asia (China),
EMEA (The Netherlands)

Centers of Excellence (7):China, France, Germany, Italy,
Mexico, The Netherlands, Spain

FranceUSA

Spain
R&D Centers (11):Netherlands
Germany
Italy
Japan

China

TurkeyPakistan

MexicoBrazil, China, France, Germany, India, Italy,

South Korea

Bangladesh

Mexico, The Netherlands, Singapore, Spain, USA
India
Manufacturing Sites (13):Ethiopia

Colombia

TaiwanThailand
VietnamSingapore

Brazil, China, France, Germany, India (2), Italy,
Mexico, The Netherlands, Singapore, Spain, USA (2)Indonesia

BrazilSales Offices / Representative Offices (31):Argentina, Bangladesh, Brazil, China, Colombia,
Ethiopia, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy (2),Japan, Mexico, The Netherlands, Pakistan (4),Singapore, South Korea, Spain (3), Taiwan, Thailand,
Turkey, Uruguay, USA (2), Vietnam

UruguayArgentina

Applications Labs (38):
Argentina, Brazil, Bangladesh, China (3), Colombia,
Ethiopia, France, Germany, India (8), Italy (4), Japan,
Mexico (2), The Netherlands, Pakistan (4), Singapore,
Spain (2), Thailand, Turkey (2), USA (2)32 Sustainability Report 201633

Index
ChapterContent

1

Message from the CEO

Page
5

ChapterContent

6

Trusted Partnerships

18

2Highlights 2016

6

The ZDHC Foundation

19

6

Tannery of the Future

19	ISO 50001 Certification for Leinfelden

6

The Leather Working Group19

	New Centers of Excellence

6

Cooperation with universities

19

Distribution rights for Proviera - Probiotics for Leather™

6

TEGEWA

19

External assessment of sustainability performance

6

ReVeal19

	Safety Awareness campaign for sustainable growth®

Innovative Solutions

20

7

Leather Chemicals & Finishing

21

ZDHC membership

7

Stahl Neo21

CO2 target

7

Proviera® - Probiotics for Leather™

21

ReVeal event

7

Stahl EasyWhite Tan™

21

Sustainability Definition, Strategy and Implementation

8

Stahl EasyBlue Tan™

21

Significant growth of Stahl products designed to reduce environmental footprint	Stahl Campus® expansion

3

4

5

7

7

Page

Our definition of sustainability

8

Bio-based Polyurethanes

21

Our sustainability goal and strategy

8

Performance Coatings & Polymers

21

Implementation: the Stahl Sustainability Standard

9

STAHL EVO

21

Raw Materials

10

Carbodiimide Crosslinkers

21

Renewable raw materials

11

Restricted Substances

11

8

New Cationic technology for reducing water pollution

21

People & Society

22

ZDHC Manufactured Restricted Substance List

11

Codes of Conduct

23

Stahl Restricted Substance List

11

Code of Conduct for Stahl employees

23

Business Partner Code of Conduct

11

Business Partner Code of Conduct

23

Responsible Operations

12

Workforce

23

SHE: Safety, Health and Environment

13

Training

23

SHE Organization and Reporting

13

Sustainable Industrial Development

24

SHE Awareness Campaign: Be Sure, It’s Secure!

13

UNIDO

24

10 Golden Safety Rules

14

PUM

24

Safety Key Performance Indicators

14

Sustainability Roadshows

24

ISO Norms

15

United Nations Sustainable Development Goals

25

9

Financial Performance

26

Sales

26

Strategic Business Units

27

Management Team

28

Environmental Key Performance Indicators

15

CO2 Emissions Target

16

CO2 Emissions

16

CO2 Reduction Projects 2016

16

10
11

Stahl Campus

30

Energy

17

Water

17

Stahl Campus® The Netherlands

31

Waste

17

Stahl Campus Mexico

31

Stahl Campus® China

31

Global Presence

32

®

12

34 Sustainability Report 2016®

35

Appendix
Stahl Code of Conduct
Introduction

Stahl strives for offering a safe working environment.

All information transmitted by, received on, created on

Each employee is encouraged to report internally to theThis Code of Conduct sets out Stahl general business

Each employee actively strives to comply with the safety

or stored on any ICT system are deemed to be company

Manager or to the Compliance Officer any suspectedprinciples. These principles are applicable for Stahl Groupregulations applicable to his/her work place.

records and property of Stahl. Subject to any applicableirregularity of a general, operational or financial nature

privacy laws, Stahl may monitor and review the usage ofrelating to Stahl Group S.A.. Reference is made to the

4. Conflict of Interest

the ICT systems, including deleting information stored on

Whistleblower Rules of Stahl.

Stahl employees shall avoid financial and businessthe ICT systems.

S.A. and all its subsidiary companies, referred to in thisdocument as ´Stahl´.
Integrity is essential in establishing and maintaining

interests that might interfere with effective job

our reputation and providing our quality services to our

performance or might result in (the appearance of) a

7. Stahl Property and Confidentiality

the suspected fraud. The investigation may include all

customers. Our objective is to preserve continuity of theconflict of interest or interests adverse to the interests

Each Stahl employee is responsible for the proper use

appropriate measures to research and secure (computer)company by maintaining a strong financial basis. Thisof Stahl.

of all facilities, property and confidential information ofrecords, assets and documents. The approval of the

Stahl Group S.A.

relevant employee will not be required. Depending on theimplies balancing long and short term interests, with

The Compliance Officer will start an investigation intodue care and respect for our customers, employees,

Should an employee or any of his/her family members

shareholders and other business relationships.

have a financial or other interest in a company or

Information regarding the activities, strategy and data of

Stahl may take appropriate actions against the employee

results of the investigation, and subject to applicable law,enterprise supplying products or services to Stahl, or

Stahl (including, without limitation, data with respect toand may notify law enforcement and/or regulatory

Should employees have any concern about what conduct

which is a competitor of Stahl, then such interest shallits employees, customers, suppliers and competitors) areauthorities.

would be appropriate, they should promptly raise thatbe promptly reported to the Compliance Officer.

the property of Stahl Group S.A.. Unlawful use of any suchconcern with the Compliance Officer. Any concern soraised is addressed with discretion and respect.

5. Business Entertainment

information may cause damage to Stahl or may provide

The position of an employee who has in good faith made aothers with an unjustified advantage.

report under this paragraph 9 will not be affected in any

In dealing with customers, suppliers, governmental

way as a result of making such report.

1. Integrity

agencies, competitors and other business relationships,

Any Stahl employee engaging in or attempting theft

Stahl strives to conduct its business with the highest

Stahl employees may not give or accept bribes. Anyof any property of Stahl (including, without limitation,

10. Compliance Officer

standards of integrity, ethical behaviour, honesty anddemand for or offer of bribes or anything of value must

documents, office equipment and intellectual property

The Compliance Officer under this Code of Conduct is the

openness. Stahl respects the interests of its customers,

be immediately rejected by Stahl employees and reported

rights) may be dismissed with immediate effect. Stahl may

Chief Financial Officer of Stahl and its group companies,

its business partners and the community at large.

to the Compliance Officer.

also pursue criminal proceedings against such employee.

B. Drexhage. The Compliance Officer investigates the

In accordance with local business practice and regulation,

8. Financial Reporting

the giving and acceptance of small business gifts –Stahl accounting and operational records and supporting

2. Legal Compliance

representating a value of maximum 50 euro - may be

documents must accurately describe and reflect theWith respect to any notification under this Code of

Stahl complies with the laws and regulations ofdecided upon in consultation with the Local Manager. Gifts

nature of the transactions and are subject to audit.

Conduct regarding (any member of) the Board of

the countries in which it operates. These laws andmay not be received on the employee’s private address.

Undisclosed or unrecorded accounts shall not be

Directors, including the Chief Financial Officer, of Stahlmaintained or established. No employee may manipulate,Group S.A., the primary point of contact is the Chairmanof the Board of Directors, Mr D.J. van Ommeren

Integrity is essential to Stahl’ business and will not
be compromised, also not by mere financial results.

suspected irregularity and, as appropriate, takes

regulations are numerous and often complex. Wheneverany question arises, employees should seek guidance

An employee may accept and provide reasonable

mislead or otherwise fraudulently influence an internal orfrom the Compliance Officer.

business entertainment (lunch, dinner) in the course

external expert or auditor conducting a (financial) audit orof business.

reviewing the financial records of Stahl Group S.A..

Stahl is committed to creating and maintaining a working

6. ICT Systems

9. Application, Suspected Fraud, Whistleblower Rules

environment in which each individual is treated with

It is Stahl policy to purchase official license agreements

This Code of Conduct applies to all employees of Stahl

respect and to ensuring equal employment opportunities

governing the use of software and to fully comply with theand its group companies. Questions regarding this Code

without discrimination or harassment on the basis ofterms and conditions thereof. Therefore, software may notof Conduct may be directed to the Compliance Officer.

race, colour, nationality, religion, sex, sexual preference,

be copied or otherwise reproduced from any of the ICT

Subject to applicable law, any violation of this Code ofage or disability.

systems or installed on any of the ICT systems.

Conduct may result in disciplinary sanctions.

corrective action.

This Code took effect on April 2013.

3. Working Environment

36 Sustainability Report 201637

UN Global Compact Letter of Continued Support

38 Sustainability Report 2016

39

FOL156/032017

Sustainability Team

Michael Costello

Katharina Albert-Klein

Ingrid Weijer

michael.costello@stahl.com

katharina.albert@stahl.com

ingrid.weijer@stahl.com

The information provided herein is not intended to form part of any offer or contract for the sale. Pictures, descriptions
and statements are only artistic impressions and they are not representations of facts. STAHL does not warrant the accuracy
and correctness 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.