Advancing sustainability with MANN+HUMMEL: Opportunities and challenges through to 2030
The United Nations’ 2030 Agenda and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set a global benchmark for social, economic, and environmental progress for the entire population. These goals call on governments, businesses, and communities everywhere to step up and make a real difference. But progress is lagging behind: only 17 percent of the SDGs are on track, while almost half have stalled or lost ground. A big part of the problem comes from a lack of collaboration as well as the impact of ongoing global conflicts. For companies, this means having to navigate a route through an increasingly complicated landscape of policies and market pressures. Overcoming the challenges towards a more sustainable development often starts with the first steps on the path to sustainability – and tackling them effectively requires creative, forward-thinking solutions.
The biggest issues and global concerns on the path to more sustainability
Building a more sustainable future isn’t easy. The world is up against a combination of climate change, dwindling resources, and growing social inequality. These are complex problems that demand real and decisive action from policymakers, businesses, and society as a whole.
Climate change and decarbonization
Climate change is the defining issue of our generation. To keep global warming in check, emissions worldwide need to drop by 43 percent by 2030. Instead, emissions keep rising – putting the Paris Agreement’s 1.5°C target seriously at risk. For businesses, the challenge is twofold: they must not only measure their carbon footprint but also actively and continuously reduce it in order to achieve long-term climate neutrality. At the same time, they need to remain economically successful to finance this transformation. What’s more, decarbonizing industries is a massive undertaking. Manufacturing, transportation, and energy production still depend heavily on fossil fuels. Transitioning to renewable energy sources, expanding infrastructure, and developing alternative technologies are therefore essential steps to successfully achieve the transformation to a more sustainable society.
For industrial companies, this means addressing a wide range of sustainability challenges – from financing new technologies in both products and production to adapting existing value chains.
Resource scarcity and the shift to a circular economy
Limited resources, social tensions, and complex regulations all make the path to more sustainability more challenging. To achieve real progress, businesses need to build circularity into their operations. However, most systems, business models, and legal frameworks are still designed around a “take-make-waste” approach, leading to high emissions and even more waste. Moving to a circular economy – where materials are reused and recycled – may be complicated, but it’s paramount. This can mean switching from single-use to reusable products, investing in recycling technologies, or setting up take-back programs for old materials.
Social inequality and a fair transition
SDG 10 calls for the elimination of discriminatory laws and a fair distribution of opportunities. Social inequality remains a pressing issue, and economic growth alone is not enough to address these challenges – true sustainability requires targeted policies, a willingness to change, and inclusive strategies. Key challenges for more sustainable social development include ensuring access to affordable and clean energy (SDG 7), education (SDG 4), healthcare (SDG 3), and fair working conditions (SDG 8) for everyone.
Turning sustainability challenges into opportunities
Despite the hurdles, the good news is that there are more ways than ever for businesses to lead the way on more sustainability. New technologies, fresh business models, and strong partnerships (SDG 17) are opening up opportunities to connect environmental goals with real business value.
Technology: The engine of more sustainable growth
Traditionally, sustainability is viewed through three dimensions: environmental, economic, and social. At MANN+HUMMEL, we expand this understanding. Our modern filtration solutions make technology the fourth dimension of sustainability – making it a key building block for a better future. We firmly believe: Innovation is the key to unlocking opportunities and accelerating both more sustainable development and progress toward the SDGs. Renewable energy, smart filtration systems, and digital solutions all hold tremendous potential for businesses and society alike. They make it possible to use resources more efficiently, reduce emissions, and promote more sustainable consumption.
Some examples:
- Advanced membrane technologies for water treatment
- Digitized production and supply chains
- Smart filter systems with predictive maintenance for industry
However, adopting new technology isn’t always easy. Scaling up and achieving market buy-in can be major obstacles. That’s why it’s key to always communicate innovations clearly and honestly.
More sustainable business models
Sustainable ideas such as Product-as-a-Service (PaaS) and take-back programs for used materials are on the rise. Responsible business is about more than just profits – it means taking greater responsibility for people and the planet. Digital tools enable the data-driven optimization and scaling up of more sustainable business models, whether it’s through circular economy solutions, eco-friendly products, or alternative raw materials. The biggest opportunities are in renewables, more sustainable mobility, and resource-light manufacturing. Green business is the path to solving today’s challenges while building tomorrow’s growth.
Cleaner energy and mobility
Renewable energy isn’t just good for the planet – it’s also opening up new markets for forward-thinking companies. Electric cars, cleaner low-emission vehicles, and more sustainable mobility solutions are changing the game. MANN+HUMMEL is at the forefront, developing filtration solutions for wind turbines, hydrogen production, energy storage, and vehicles with alternative powertrains.
Problems related to sustainable development: Balancing risk and reward
Opportunities and risks always go hand in hand when it comes to more sustainability initiatives. While new technologies and business models offer significant potential, they also present complex challenges for companies – such as investment risks or the danger of greenwashing. The best prospects for a more sustainable future arise when economic growth is clearly, meaningfully, and realistically linked with economic, social, and environmental responsibility.
MANN+HUMMEL: Building a cleaner future
MANN+HUMMEL is taking on today’s biggest environmental challenges with its cutting-edge filtration technology for cleaner mobility, cleaner air, cleaner water, and cleaner industry. We’re focused on using renewable raw materials and reducing our carbon footprint through smarter processes and innovative filtration materials.
Some highlights from our portfolio:
- Lignin-impregnated filters that reduce the need for crude oil
- Recycling over 95 percent of our production waste
- Developing products that address more sustainability throughout their entire lifecycle
Taking action on sustainability isn’t always simple. But these efforts show just how crucial innovation and adaptability are for long-term success. At MANN+HUMMEL, sustainability is completely woven into our company strategy, driving comprehensive innovations in development, manufacturing, and throughout product usage and circularity. Whether it’s in original equipment or the aftermarket, initiatives like our Go better. Go yellow. Go MANN-FILTER prove we’re committed to making a real impact.
Our commitment to sustainability extends beyond our own operations. Through innovative filtration technologies we empower our customers to reduce emissions, improve energy efficiency, and meet increasingly ambitious environmental standards. These solutions support our partners across industries align with global frameworks, like the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
- Holistic sustainability assessment: Since 2024, 82 percent of the electricity used at MANN+HUMMEL comes from renewable sources; from 2025, we will switch to 100 percent green electricity. In 2024, we reduced energy consumption by 3 percent (to 546 GWh) and greenhouse gas emissions by 9 percent to 186,000 t CO₂ (Scope 1+2). Our recycling rate in logistics is 97 percent. Around 80 percent of a product’s carbon footprint is determined during development, which is why sustainable innovation and recycled materials are central to our design process. The goal of our Carbon Zero Strategy is to achieve CO₂-neutral production by 2035 and full climate neutrality by 2050. To reach this, we make extensive use of EAC certificates.
- High-efficiency air filters: Our Airpocket Eco and Aircube Eco 3V filters are durable, glass fiber-free, and offer low pressure drop – cutting building energy costs by around 16 percent and meeting the most stringent environmental standards. With our air filters, we ensure clean air in buildings such as hospitals, airports, theaters, shopping centers, and hotels – as well as in private households.
- Cleanroom solutions: The Nanoclass Cube Pro series is made from recyclable materials, delivers high efficiency at low pressure loss, and the HT version can handle up to 248°F (120°C) with a built-in temperature indicator to prevent filter failure in critical areas such as operating rooms.
- Smart cabin air filters: These cabin air filter systems capture ultrafine particles down to 0.1 microns with up to 99.95 percent efficiency. Smart controls mean the filter works only when needed, saving energy and extending EV range.
- Compact filtration solutions: EPA, HEPA*, and ULPA filters ensure ultra-clean air within pharma, biotech, and electronics facilities.
*High Efficiency Particulate Air Filter, individually tested to ISO 29643 and EN 1822
- Advanced water treatment: Our BIO-CEL® M+ membrane modules protect groundwater and help secure water supplies. High-performance ultrafiltration keeps antibiotic-resistant bacteria out of the environment.
- Ultrafiltration modules: With vacuum-driven, backwashable designs, systems like our iSep 500 and SpiraSep 1060 easily handle high contamination, need less pre-treatment, and help keep operating costs down.
- MICRODYN RO membranes: Our membranes remove over 99 percent of dissolved salts, particles, and organics from saltwater, providing cleaner water for drinking, industry, and agriculture.
- Fine dust filters: MANN+HUMMEL’s integrated fine dust filters for vehicle fronts remove up to 100 percent of PM10 particles from ambient air – helping tackle pollution in cities. Our cabin air filters with HEPA H14 technology remove more than 99.995 percent of viruses, bacteria, pollen, other allergens, and fine dust from the air inside the vehicle. In addition, activated carbon filters adsorb gases such as SO₂, nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons before they can enter the vehicle.
- Recycling rate over 95 percent*: Nearly all of our production waste is recycled. Packaging contains at least 90 percent certified recycled cardboard.
- Use of recycled and bio-based materials*: New filter models for trucks and industrial applications use recycled plastics and bio-based raw materials – without compromising performance.
- Strict EU regulations*: Oil and fuel filters are managed in accordance with EU Directive 91/689/EEC, ensuring safe disposal and recycling.
- Lifecycle focus*: At MANN+HUMMEL, sustainability is considered holistically – from research and development all the way through to product recycling.
- R&D investment: Around 3 percent of our annual revenue is dedicated to innovation. Our researchers and developers partner with universities and research institutes worldwide.
- Tech transfer: Our innovation centers – including the Digital Hub in Raleigh, North Carolina – and global partnerships drive knowledge exchange. We also invest in promising startups that are focused on clean solutions.
- SDG impact: MANN+HUMMEL is actively supporting SDG 3 (Good Health & Well-Being), SDG 6 (Clean Water & Sanitation), SDG 7 (Affordable & Clean Energy), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities & Communities), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption & Production), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 17 (Partnerships).
- Carbon zero commitment: We’re aiming to be net zero by 2050, with carbon-free production by 2035.
- Responsible business: Our Code of Conduct, Social Charter, Occupational Health and Safety Policy, and Human Rights Statement are firmly embedded in our Management Policy (POL-008).
- Awards: We’ve earned multiple EcoVadis Gold ratings and won the PARTSLIFE Environmental Award for innovative lignin-based filter solutions.
MANN HUMMEL: Driving sustainable innovation
The next few years will define how deeply sustainability is woven into business and society. We’re convinced that collaboration, bold innovation, and an integrated approach are the keys to building a better future.
Achieving the SDGs and solving the world’s toughest sustainability challenges is no small task. But we’re ready for it – with investment, partnership, and more sustainable business models. Alongside the traditional three pillars – environment, economy, and social equity – we also put a special focus on technology. We believe the use of technology is essential to hitting more sustainability targets. We see our role as enabling our customers’ sustainable transformation and actively participating in it. That’s why we’re always working on the next generation of filtration solutions for a cleaner world.
| Theme | SDG Set | Lead SDG | Supporting SDG 1 | Supporting SDG 2 | Supporting 3 | Supporting SDG 4 | Supporting SDG 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0. UN 2030 Agenda & Global Cooperation | SDG 17, 16, 9, 8 | 17.16 Partnerships (GRI 2-27) | 16.6 Accountability (GRI 205-3) | 9.b Innovation capacity (GRI 302-1) | 8.2 Productivity (GRI 404-1) | ||
| 1. Climate change and decarbonization | SDG 13, 7, 9, 8, 12, 17 | 13.1 Resilience (GRI 305-1) | 13.2 Integration (GRI 305-2; 305-4) | 7.2 Renewables (GRI 302-1) | 9.4 Efficiency (GRI 302-1; 305-4) | 8.2 Productivity (GRI 404-1) | 12.2 Resources (GRI 301-2) |
| 2. Resource scarcity and the shift to a circular economy | SDG 12, 9, 13, 8, 11, 17 | 12.2 Resources (GRI 301-2 | 12.5 Waste & recycling (GRI 306-3; 306-4) | 9.4 Efficiency (GRI 302-1) | 13.2 Strategy (GRI 305-1; 305-2) | 11.6 Cities (GRI 416-1) | |
| 3. Social inequality and a fair transition | SDG 10, 8, 4, 7, 3 | 10.2 Inclusion (GRI 405-1) | 8.5 Equal pay (GRI 405-1) | 4.4 Green skills (GRI 404-1) | 7.1 Energy access (GRI 302-1) | 3.9 Health (GRI 416-1) | |
| 4. Turning sustainability challenges into opportunities | SDG 17, 9, 8, 12, 13 | 17.16 Partnerships (GRI 2-27) | 9.5 R&D (GRI 302-1) | 8.2 Productivity (GRI 404-1) | 12.2 Resources (GRI 301-2) | 13.2 Strategy (GRI 305-1; 305-2) | |
| 5. Technology: The engine of sustainable growth | SDG 9, 7, 13, 8, 17 | 9.4 Digital efficiency (GRI 302-1; 305-4) | 7.2 Renewables (GRI 302-1) | 13.2 Strategy (GRI 305-1; 305-2) | 8.2 Growth (GRI 404-1) | 17.16 Partnerships (GRI 2-27) | |
| 6. Responsible business models | SDG 9, 12, 13, 8, 7, 17 | 9.4 Circular efficiency (GRI 302-1; 301-2) | 12.5 Reuse (GRI 306-4) | 13.2 Strategy (GRI 305-1; 305-2) | 8.2 Growth (GRI 404-1) | 7.3 Efficiency (GRI 302-1) | |
| 7. Renewables and cleaner mobility | SDG 7, 9, 11, 12, 13 | 7.2 Renewables (GRI 302-1) | 7.3 Efficiency (GRI 302-1) | 11.2 Mobility (GRI 416-1) | 12.2 Resources (GRI 301-2) | 13.2 Strategy (GRI 305-1; 305-2) | |
| 8. Problems related to sustainable development: Balancing risk and reward | SDG 8, 9, 12, 13, 16, 17 | 8.4 Resource efficiency (GRI 302-1; 301-2) | 9.4 Upgrade industry (GRI 305-4) | 12.2 Resources (GRI 301-2) | 13.2 Integrate climate action (GRI 305-1; 305-2) | 16.5 Anti-corruption (GRI 205-3) | 17.16 Partnerships (GRI 2-27) |
| 9. MANN+HUMMEL: Building a cleaner future | SDG 3, 6, 9, 11, 12, 13 | 3.9 Environmental health (GRI 416-1) | 6.3 Water quality (GRI 303-3) | 9.4 Efficiency (GRI 302-1) | 11.6 Air quality (GRI 416-1) | 12.2 Resources (GRI 301-2) | 13.2 Strategy (GRI 305-1; 305-2) |
| GRI number | GRI indicator title | Page | SDG Set |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2-27 | Compliance with laws and regulations / Memberships and collaborations | 17 | SDG 16, 17 |
| 3-1 / 3-2 | Process to determine material topics / List of material topics | 21–23 | SDG 17 |
| 3-3 | Management of material topics | 25–26, 30–31, 38, 51, 55, 62, 75 | SDG 8, 9, 12, 13, 17 |
| 205-1 / 205-2 | Anti-corruption risk assessment and training | 35 | SDG 16, 17 |
| 205-3 | Confirmed incidents of corruption and actions taken | 35 | SDG 16 |
| 301-2 | Recycled input materials used | 40 | SDG 9, 12, 13 |
| 302-1 | Energy consumption within the organization | 42–44 | SDG 7, 9, 13 |
| 302-3 | Energy intensity | 45–46 | SDG 7, 9, 13 |
| 302-4 | Reduction of energy consumption | 45 | SDG 7, 13 |
| 302-5 | Reductions in energy requirements of products and services | 46 | SDG 7, 9, 13 |
| 303-3 | Water withdrawal / reuse | 48–49 | SDG 6, 12 |
| 305-1 | Direct (Scope 1) GHG emissions | 51–53 | SDG 13 |
| 305-2 | Energy indirect (Scope 2) GHG emissions | 51–53 | SDG 13 |
| 305-4 | GHG emissions intensity | 53 | SDG 9, 13 |
| 305-7 | Air emissions (NOx, SOx, PM) | 54 | SDG 3, 11, 13 |
| 306-2 | Management of significant waste-related impacts | 56 | SDG 12 |
| 306-3 | Waste generated | 55 | SDG 12 |
| 306-4 | Waste diverted from disposal (Recycling rate) | 55 | SDG 12 |
| 403-9 | Work-related injuries | 67 | SDG 3, 8, 10 |
| 404-1 | Average training hours per employee | 68 | SDG 4, 8, 10 |
| 405-1 | Diversity of governance bodies and employees | 69 | SDG 5, 8, 10 |
| 405-2 | Ratio of remuneration of women to men | 69 | SDG 5, 10 |
| 416-1 | Assessment of the health and safety impacts of products and services | 75 | SDG 3, 11 |
| 416-2 | Incidents of non-compliance concerning health and safety impacts | 75 | SDG 3, 11 |
| 416 | Customer Health and Safety (Topic Standard 2016) | 75 | SDG 3, 11 |
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