Innovation and sustainability: Guiding the way to a better future
Our world faces fundamental challenges: climate change, resource scarcity, social inequality, and demographic shifts all threaten both the environment and collective prosperity. The 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide a clear framework for tackling these global issues with a future-oriented mindset. This agenda is built on the belief that innovation is the key to sustainability – and that it plays a pivotal role in reaching these goals. For companies like MANN+HUMMEL, new ideas are essential for making a real, responsible impact. Traditionally, sustainability has three dimensions: environmental, economic, and social. At MANN+HUMMEL, we expand this perspective by adding a fourth crucial factor – pioneering technologies. For us, technology is the fourth dimension, as it plays a key role in driving progress. We’re convinced that many SDGs can only be met through innovative filtration solutions.
Here are some of the SDGs our innovations directly support:
- SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being): Advanced filtration technology contributes to cleaner air.
- SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation): Our desalination systems, spring water purification, and wastewater treatment solutions help remove harmful microplastics and pharmaceutical residues.
- SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy): We support renewables and energy storage innovations.
- SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure): Digitalization and sustainable manufacturing are priorities in our operations.
- SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities): Filtration solutions for wastewater systems, mobility, and better air quality in public spaces.
- SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production): We’re fully committed to circular economy principles and developing new business models.
- SDG 13 (Climate Action): We focus on low-carbon technologies and climate adaptation strategies.
- SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals): Our work relies on strong partnerships with leading global companies, knowledge transfer, and expanding digital communication channels.
Key areas for sustainable innovation
Circular economy and resource management
Ecological innovation is centered on the efficient and responsible use of resources. By embracing the principles of the circular economy, we increase the use of recyclable materials, reduce reliance on primary raw materials, and minimize waste1. Innovative and sustainable product design lays the foundation for measurable CO₂ reductions across the entire product life cycle. To simulate CO₂ effects, MANN+HUMMEL has developed and certified specialized software solutions, which are fully integrated into our development processes.
1 See more in our latest CSR Report.
Renewable energy and energy efficiency
A low-emission economy depends on renewables and greater energy efficiency. By focusing on sustainable innovation, we not only help protect the environment but also build lasting ecological and economic stability. Our main innovation fields at MANN+HUMMEL are cleaner mobility, cleaner air, water recycling and seawater desalination but also cleaner industries. We also support modern waste management with highly effective water and air filtration systems based on advanced membrane and molecular filter technologies.
Sustainable mobility and transportation solutions
Sustainable mobility means creating transportation systems that balance environmental, social, and economic needs. As climate change accelerates, resources become scarcer, and cities grow, there’s a greater need than ever for greener transport – across government, industry, and society. Today’s mobility concepts combine innovative technologies and systemic changes to lower emissions and use resources efficiently, aiming to create sustainable solutions for responsible mobility. Electrification is a major driver, switching from combustion engines to electric drives can sharply reduce CO₂ emissions, especially when powered by renewables. However, for heavy-duty transport, aviation, and shipping, batteries alone aren’t enough. In this context, green hydrogen and synthetic fuels (e-fuels), particularly in combination with more efficient drivetrains, offer promising alternatives for the future.
Freight transport also requires innovative, sustainable approaches. Together, we’re making an impact through:
- Using intermodal transport (combining ship, rail, and truck) to achieve targeted reductions in CO₂ emissions.
- Data-driven route planning and artificial intelligence to optimize supply chains
- Low-emission last-mile delivery via electric vans/trucks, cargo bikes, and drones
- Supporting the circular economy with reusable packaging and sustainable containers
Green mobility plays a particularly important role in SDG 9 of the United Nations, which highlights the significance of industry, innovation, and infrastructure for sustainable development. Especially in filtration technology, it is technical innovation that determines how effectively and resource-efficiently mobility solutions can be implemented. Given the complexity of modern challenges, ingenious custom product innovations are key.
- CO₂-reduced filters made with plant-based materials, renewable energy, and recycled packaging
- Solutions that extend the service life and boost the performance of fuel cells and high-voltage batteries
- Bespoke battery system solutions:
- Thermal management systems that maintain battery life and performance
- Venting units that prevent leaks and protect battery housings
- Coolant particle filters that keep out dirt and prevent overheating
- Cooling air modules for high-performance batteries
- For fuel cell drive systems, our innovations include:
- Cathode air cleaners that protect against pollutants and gas contamination
- Cathode water separators that safeguard systems from water droplet damage
- Advanced exhaust air systems that reduce noise and pressure loss
- Humidifiers that protect sensitive membranes with minimal pressure drop
- Ion exchanger filters that keep conductivity low and prevent short circuits
- Noise reduction: Our broad band silencers effectively cut intake and flow noise, leading to quieter operation and improved environmental performance throughout the product’s life.
This holistic approach – from material selection through to recycling – supports the shift to a future-oriented mobility system. Our contribution goes beyond just reducing emissions; it helps create a more sustainable, livable future.
Water management and treatment
Access to clean water is vital for health, quality of life, and environmental protection. This is the focus of SDG 6, which calls for universal access to safe water and sanitation, the responsible use of water resources, and ongoing improvements to sanitation infrastructure. MANN+HUMMEL has long been committed to these goals, offering a wide range of innovative filtration solutions tailored to meet environmental demands and the realities of modern infrastructure.
Meeting the challenges with the latest technology
Securing reliable water supplies and treating water efficiently are urgent issues for both industry and cities. The main challenges include:
- Increasing water scarcity due to climate change and population growth
- Stricter environmental regulations and higher quality standards
- The need for innovative, efficient water management systems
A resilient water management system tracks, controls, and optimizes resources at every stage – from extraction and distribution through to water reuse. We support this with:
- Digital monitoring systems for precise water use tracking
- Automated controls for efficient operations
- Intelligent sensors that quickly detect leaks or quality issues
By combining our smart filtration technologies with digital solutions like Streametric (a software-as-a-service for water and wastewater management), we’re making water supply more efficient and sustainable. Our BIO-CEL® M+ membrane modules and SpiraSep™ ultrafiltration systems are helping set new standards. These products are perfect examples of how innovation directly benefits both society and the environment.
BIO-CEL® M+ membrane module: Specially designed for membrane bioreactors, this ultrafiltration solution removes even antibiotic-resistant bacteria from wastewater, keeping harmful germs out of water systems and ensuring top water quality.
SpiraSep™ 1060 ultrafiltration modules (UF): With a vacuum-driven, immersed, backwashable, spiral-wound design, these modules deliver a much higher performance than traditional hollow-fiber systems. They're ideal for heavily contaminated water and wastewater, offering key benefits such as:
- Less pre-treatment required (no need for classic settling tanks)
- Lower investment and operating costs
- Simpler systems that take up less space
By bringing together innovative filtration and digital solutions, we’re making a real contribution to sustainable development – for industry, municipalities, and society at large. MANN+HUMMEL leads the way in showing how responsible product development and technical expertise create lasting value for a sustainable future.
Spotlight on technological innovation
Embracing innovation to transform challenges into solutions
Even with strong market opportunities, companies focused on sustainability still need access to funding and investors. Europe, in particular, faces a funding gap during the scale-up phase compared to other regions. Programs such as “KMU-innovativ” and “Horizon Europe” help bridge this gap, supporting the development and market launch of environmental and climate-friendly innovations.
Complex regulations at both national and international levels can slow down and hinder innovation. The EU is working to streamline reporting requirements and increase stakeholder involvement to make it easier for companies to innovate. At the same time, new ESG regulations – such as those emerging in China – are increasingly aligning with international standards, helping accelerate the shift towards sustainable development. The goal must be solution-oriented regulation that enables us to achieve climate targets, rather than stifling progress through excessive reporting requirements. Industrial companies are already driven by two key motivations: tapping into new markets and producing products with minimal resource consumption.
Collaboration between industry and research is key for successful technology transfer. When companies work closely with universities and research institutions, new knowledge and methods can move quickly to market – raising the bar for innovative, sustainable products and processes across industries.
Examples of successful sustainability innovations
- Smart metering and IoT in energy: Real-time data enables targeted energy savings and significant cuts in CO₂ emissions.
- MANN+HUMMEL Smart Filtration Solutions: Digital monitoring and automated filter diagnostics lead to longer filter life, reduced downtime, and better air quality in industry and transportation.
Measurable impacts:
- Greenhouse gas emissions reduced by up to 26 percent.
- Vehicles and batteries: up to 49 million tons of CO₂ saved each year.
- Digitalized factories: faster planning, higher productivity, and greater sustainability.
Looking ahead: The future of sustainable innovation
Innovation for sustainability – our commitment
Sustainability and innovation go hand in hand. In a world that’s becoming more complex every day, bold ideas and a sharp focus on implementing sustainability measures are what drive business success and societal acceptance. Companies like MANN+HUMMEL are showing how the combination of science, technology, and partnership can make a real difference. Smart technologies in mobility, air, water, and resource management not only enable greener innovation but also open up new business models and growth opportunities. By continuously innovating, we aim to enhance sustainability in every area – and laying the groundwork for a livable, future-ready society.
Are you interested in innovative filtration solutions for your company? Would you like to play an active role in shaping a cleaner future?
