Dear reader,
As I present our 2024 Sustainability Report, I reflect on the progress we have made and the challenges that lie ahead. The path to becoming the most performing and sustainable partner in complex fine chemistry by 2028 goes to the core of our vision. Sustainability has never been only a mere ambition for the CABB Group – it is central to our business and defines how we create long-term value for our stakeholders.
Over the past year, we have advanced our position as a leading fine chemicals and contract manufacturing (CDMO) player, serving the Crop Sciences, Life Sciences, and Performance Materials markets. Our efforts are guided by a clear focus on sustainability and operational excellence ensuring that we remain a trusted partner while aligning our steps with our sustainability goals.
In 2024, the CABB Group deepened its commitment to sustainability by advancing its alignment with the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and committing to the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). These commitments will enhance our ability to measure, manage, and transparently communicate our progress while ensuring compliance with global sustainability standards. Through the SBTi, we have established a clear roadmap for carbon footprint management, both at the group level and for our products. As part of our commitment, we adjusted our near-term climate targets and pledged a further reduction of Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions. By prioritizing energy efficiency, transitioning to green energy sources, and promoting responsible and efficient resource use, the CABB Group has worked towards limiting global warming and accelerating decarbonization. Since 2023, we have been measuring the carbon footprint of our products and strengthening our engagement with key stakeholders across the value chain. Starting in 2025, we will also be working with our suppliers in a more structured way, thanks to our newly implemented supplier-focused ERP system, to promote shared sustainability goals and reflect our dedication to the principles of the “Together for Sustainability” initiative.
These achievements are only possible because of the dedication and expertise of our people, who play a critical role in driving our sustainability journey forward. At the CABB Group, safety remains paramount in our production sites and offices worldwide. In 2024, our #BehaviouralSafety program evolved further, embedding a culture of care and reinforcing our commitment to ensuring a safe and healthy workplace for all employees.
Sustainability also means embracing flexibility and adapting our tailored, high-quality, and sustainable solutions to meet evolving customer needs in an increasingly dynamic marketplace. While we face challenges such as rising costs, we are steadfast in our commitment to maintaining value for our customers without compromise.
«Continuous improvement is not just our ambition – it’s our responsibility to future generations.»
In an increasingly interconnected and unpredictable world, resilience has never been more important than it is nowadays. That’s why we also try to innovate and enhance our product portfolio and offer more sustainable solutions, such as innovative solutions for pharmaceuticals, low-carbon hydrogen and polyimide components for wind turbines.
Furthermore, we recognize that shorter transport routes, resilient supply chains, and reliable local production partners are essential to achieving both our own operational goals and our customers’ sustainability objectives. As customers increasingly prioritize resilience and efficiency by reducing reliance on long-distance orders, Europe’s industrial ecosystem stands out as a strong and strategic advantage. By focusing on local production in different regions worldwide, we can minimize risks, strengthen the region’s industrial base, and ensure we remain a reliable partner for our customers.
At the same time, we recognize that achieving global sustainability goals requires global coordination. While we prioritize supporting domestic industries and ensuring the long-term strength of European production, we also advocate for a level playing field with global standards. The EU alone cannot set these standards; we must work together globally to define the rules of the game.
As I look to 2025 and beyond, I want to share a message of resilience and hope. At the CABB Group, we are not just adapting to change, we aim to shape it. We envision a future where global standards for the chemical industry deliver consistent, measurable impact to all of our stakeholders. Our approach to sustainability is holistic, spanning along the entire value chain, and we are committed to bringing our customers along this journey. By staying true to our values and fostering stakeholder collaboration, we aim to lead by example and contribute to a more sustainable and equitable world – one built on collaboration, innovation, and shared responsibility.
I am proud to share with you in the following pages the progress we have made in 2024. Together, we continue to move forward on this journey toward a more sustainable future.
Sincerely yours,
Thomas H. Ahrens
CEO CABB Group
