Konecranes has achieved a significant milestone in its sustainability journey with its Hämeenlinna factory in Finland becoming the company’s first CarbonNeutral certified facility. This certification, awarded in 2023, underscores Konecranes' commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The factory reached this landmark by utilizing renewable energy, enhancing energy efficiency, and purchasing carbon credits to offset emissions that couldn’t yet be eliminated. This achievement aligns with Konecranes’ ambitious target of achieving carbon neutrality in its operations by 2030, ahead of their original timeline.
Since receiving the certification, the Hämeenlinna factory has continued to make strides in reducing its carbon footprint. Notably, the factory has modernized its gear case hardening process, leading to a 72% reduction in emissions since 2019. The facility is also advancing energy efficiency by replacing diesel forklifts with electric ones and using renewable fuels for those that remain. These improvements reflect Konecranes' broader strategy to implement similar energy-saving measures across its global operations.
The benefits of these energy efficiency improvements extend beyond environmental gains. At the Hämeenlinna factory, upgrades such as HVAC renewal have enhanced employee working conditions, improved safety by eliminating flames from the hardening process, and reduced the need for harmful detergents and oils. These changes not only contribute to a safer and cleaner work environment but also enhance operational efficiency and product quality.
Konecranes’ commitment to sustainability is evident in its rigorous climate agenda, which includes science-based targets validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). The company has already halved its Scope 1 and 2 emissions, with continued efforts to address Scope 3 emissions, which represent the majority of its total emissions. Konecranes is focusing on electrifying its vehicle fleet, developing energy-efficient equipment, and working with suppliers to reduce emissions in steel production, reflecting its dedication to achieving comprehensive sustainability goals.