Keter, a global leader in outdoor living and storage solutions, has recently unveiled its 2023 Sustainability Report under the guidance of CEO Alejandro Pena. This comprehensive report showcases the company’s remarkable progress and unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship in the home and garden industry.
In a significant achievement, Keter maintained a recycled content rate of over 41% in its products during 2023, despite the challenges of sourcing recycled resins for large-scale manufacturing. This success is primarily attributed to the company’s in-house recycler in the U.S., Trigon, which provides a consistent stream of recycled materials. Additionally, Keter’s technical experts have been tirelessly exploring new recycling opportunities, pushing the boundaries of sustainable manufacturing.
The company’s environmental efforts extend beyond recycling. Keter reported an 8% reduction in absolute Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions across its global operations. This reduction results from ongoing efficiency efforts by operational teams and the strategic procurement of electricity from suppliers offering energy from renewable sources. By the end of 2023, Keter had achieved a 24.6% reduction in emissions per ton compared to 2018 levels, bringing it close to its pledged 25% reduction target.
Keter’s commitment to sustainability is deeply ingrained in its business model. As Alejandro Pena articulated, the company’s purpose is “to shape what’s next for a better day by creating, inventing, designing, and building solutions for homes, gardens, and storage so that our customers and communities can live comfortably and adopt more sustainable lifestyles.”
The company’s global reach is crucial in implementing sustainable practices internationally. Keter sells its products in over 110 countries through over 25,000 retail stores and online platforms. With 20 manufacturing sites across ten countries, the company is well-positioned to drive sustainability initiatives throughout its extensive supply chain.
Keter has taken proactive steps in the Benelux region to support the EU’s circular economy action plan. The company has implemented product take-back and recycling programs with key retailers such as Blokker and Action. These initiatives reduce waste and create new products from recycled materials. For instance, the partnership with Action, operational since August 2023, has already produced round, black organizer containers in various sizes made from recycled materials.
Keter’s dedication to sustainability is reflected in its organizational structure. The company has established a dedicated network led by a global chief sustainability officer and supported by regional heads. This structure ensures consistent implementation of sustainable practices across Keter’s international operations. Regular meetings at both global and regional levels keep the focus on sustainability goals and progress.
Communication and employee engagement are critical components of Keter’s sustainability strategy. The company keeps its workforce informed and involved through various channels, including quarterly newsletters that share progress updates and best practices. In 2023 alone, Keter organized over 65 sustainability-focused meetings and training events for employees, demonstrating its commitment to building a culture of sustainability from within.
Looking ahead, Keter has set ambitious goals. The company aims to increase its recycled content to 55% by 2025, a target that underscores its industry leadership and commitment to environmental stewardship. This goal is supported by various initiatives to enhance recycling capabilities and reduce reliance on virgin materials.
Keter’s influence in the sustainability conversation extends beyond its operations. In 2023, the company’s sustainability managers and teams actively participated in more than 20 external conferences and webinars. Furthermore, Keter is a member of the Circular Plastics Alliance, which aims to boost the EU market for recycled plastics to 10 million metric tons by 2025.
Under Alejandro Pena’s leadership, Keter is not just adapting to changing environmental expectations but actively shaping a more sustainable future for the sector. The company’s approach demonstrates that combining business growth with environmental responsibility is possible, setting a benchmark for others in the industry to follow. As Keter continues to innovate and expand its sustainable practices, it is clear that the company is committed to its vision of shaping what’s next for a better day, playing a crucial role in the transition to a more circular and environmentally friendly economy.
