A key component of DELO's sustainability efforts is the foundational element of our adhesives: their raw materials. Our goal is to develop a range of environmentally friendly adhesives that stand out with their minimal carbon footprint. By carefully selecting raw materials and employing modern technologies like Activation on the Flow, we aim to reduce environmental impact in a way that benefits all stakeholders.
Dr. Bastian Sueveges, Head of "Raw Material Development"
Currently, we are in the research phase with large corporations as well as several startups to expand our knowledge on sustainable and bio-based raw materials. One of our partners is an analytics lab that uses the 14C method to determine if the carbon content in a material comes from fossil fuels or natural sources like trees. This analysis helps us assess the "biological" stake of the raw materials we use in our adhesives.
As part of our efforts for sustainable raw materials, we are conducting comprehensive life-cycle assessments (LCAs) for three of our adhesives. These evaluations help us determine the carbon footprint of individual products. Each production step is analyzed for energy usage, and improvements are made whenever possible.
At DELO, we are already using raw materials based on bio-based substances (e.g., cashew shell oil). We are continuously striving to expand our portfolio of raw materials by testing new bio-based materials. However, there are currently only a few sustainable or bio-based raw materials on the market that we can test. Additionally, we are working on developing our own sustainable raw materials.
Another important aspect of our sustainability efforts is reusability. Some of our adhesives are already designed to be removable, allowing valuable resources to be reused. To further explore this potential, we conduct thorough feasibility studies and continually test new possibilities.
DELO has committed to various Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), carefully selected to measure and implement our sustainability efforts. We have already made significant progress in several areas, as illustrated by the following initiatives:
DELO’s packaging consists of 80–100% recycled materials. Our specially developed shipping containers that do not require dry ice save over 1,700 tons of CO₂ annually, earning us the Responsible Care Award in 2021. We are continuously expanding CO₂-neutral transport options in collaboration with partners like World Courier.
In the area of cartridges, plastic end caps have been replaced with thin foil seals. We also conduct further feasibility studies for bio-based materials. CO₂-neutral solutions are employed in shipping, including recycled and stretchable films.
By using light-curing technologies instead of energy-intensive thermal curing processes, DELO and our customers save significant amounts of CO₂. Another technology, flow activation, allows DELO and customers to save up to 98% of CO₂ emissions compared to traditional methods.
DELO aims for a generally economical use of energy, achieved through the use of energy-saving LED technology and "smart" sensors that operate lighting and ventilation in production and office areas only as needed.
In production, the use of cooling and process water is avoided. Instead, closed-loop cooling systems in closed circuits are used and for irrigation rainwater is collected in cisterns.
DELO has been participating in the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) since 2022, ensuring transparency and accountability regarding our sustainability actions. This commitment enables us to track emissions across various scopes in accordance with the Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GHG), an internationally recognized standard for measuring and managing greenhouse gas emissions.
Our efforts underscore DELO's commitment to a sustainable future. We not only measure direct emissions but also take into account the indirect environmental impact of the entire supply chain. Moreover, DELO is making diverse efforts to achieve its sustainability and climate protection goals.
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DELO is a medium-sized family business with a supportive work culture. We offer a variety of development opportunities and appealing career paths for both newcomers and seasoned professionals. At DELO, we value a pleasant work environment that fosters innovation and teamwork. Our flexible work setting accommodates individual needs, including flexible working hours and attractive additional benefits. Further insights into our values and expectations can be found in the FAQs and interviews on our website.