Greenhouse gas emissions
Suominen reports its direct greenhouse gas emissions (Scope 1), its indirect greenhouse gas emissions from purchased energy production (Scope 2) and other indirect greenhouse gas emissions (Scope 3) according to the Greenhouse gas protocol. Direct greenhouse gases originate from the consumption of fossil fuels used mainly for the generation of process heat. Indirect emissions related to energy production are caused by the production of purchased electricity and steam. Other indirect emissions are caused by those activities we are indirectly responsible for in the whole value chain.
In 2025, Suominen’s total GHG emissions (marketbased) decreased by 11% compared to the previous year. Total GHG emissions from Scope 1 and 2 (market-based) decreased by 11% in 2025. The decrease was mainly caused by reduced production volumes and updated emission factors. The GHG emissions from Scope 3 decreased by 11% compared to 2024. In 2025, no significant actions related to Scope 3 emissions were carried out to prevent, mitigate or remedy impacts, nor to address the associated risks, as we focused on higher priority measures within the company. The decrease in Scope 3 emissions was mainly driven by lower production volumes and the use of new supplier-specific emission factors in the calculation.
In our Sustainability Agenda for 2025–2030 our climate change mitigation target is set to reduce our GHG emissions in line with the Paris Agreement, with the aim of limiting global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Decreasing GHG emissions is crucial for minimizing the risks and impacts of climate change, such as extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and the loss of biodiversity. By committing to 1.5°C science-based GHG reduction targets, Suominen strengthens its position to lead in sustainable nonwovens and to meet customer expectations. Our emission reduction target is set at the Group level. For Scope 1–2 emissions, our reduction target is 42%, and a separate 42% reduction target has been set for Scope 3 emissions, which will be further specified during 2026.
As part of our actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, all our European sites have shifted entirely to fossil-free electricity since 2021. Our Paulínia site in Brazil shifted to fossil-free electricity in 2023 and our Bethune site in the United States partially shifted in 2024. This shift has had a remarkable impact on the reduction of our Scope 2 emissions. Suominen is examining similar opportunities for its other sites in North America. We also have solar panels in Alicante, Spain, producing renewable electricity for the site. With the electricity produced by the solar panels, we are able to cover 10% of the production plant’s total energy consumption. Suominen is evaluating opportunities for additional solar panel investments.
We are continuously looking for ways to decrease greenhouse gas emissions from our operations and supply chain.