Environmental protection and systematic environmental management are firmly embedded in our business activities – from product development and manufacturing to the supply chain. We reduce the consumption of water and materials, avoid waste, promote biodiversity, and continue to work on further reducing pollutant emissions. The foundation for this is provided by internationally recognized environmental management systems as well as our Group-wide initiative “Green Production 2030”, through which we pursue concrete goals worldwide and achieve measurable progress.
Environmental Protection at Daimler Truck
Environmental Impacts of Our Vehicles
In addition to CO₂e emissions, which we address under climate protection, the operation of our vehicles generates further emissions – such as nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), particulate matter, and volatile organic compounds. We reliably comply with globally applicable emission standards and invest specifically in innovations to further reduce air pollution.
A key instrument in this effort is our environmental reporting embedded in the development process: for each vehicle series and powertrain variant, we define target values for fuel consumption and pollutant emissions. These targets serve as benchmarks to assess our progress throughout product development. Where necessary, we derive corrective measures.
Environmental Management in Production: Our Systematic Approach
At our production sites, we apply environmental management systems in accordance with ISO 14001 and EMAS, which are reviewed and certified by external auditors every three years. Already 94% of our relevant sites – including production plants, development centers, and test tracks – are certified according to ISO 14001. In addition, since 2012 we have implemented energy management systems in line with ISO 50001 at many of our locations.
These standards are an integral part of our sustainability strategy. Their effectiveness is regularly confirmed through external audits. In this way, we ensure that environmental protection is embedded in all processes – and continuously developed further.
Since 1999, we have applied the method of Environmental Due Diligence across the Group in order to identify, assess, and avoid potential environmental risks at an early stage. Every five years, our production sites undergo a standardized evaluation process. In addition, we conduct annual reviews to verify whether recommended measures have been implemented. Around 20% of our 42 relevant sites worldwide are subject to an in-depth review each year. This approach provides the foundation for responsible and effective environmental management throughout the company.
Responsible Use of Resources in Production
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Sustainable Water Management
As part of our “Green Production 2030” initiative, we have set ourselves a clear target: by 2030, we aim to reduce our water consumption by around 470,000 m³ – measured against the average of 2013 and 2014.
To achieve this, we rely on innovative approaches in production: we close water cycles, optimize our processes for water efficiency, and increasingly use rainwater. In this way, we promote multiple uses and gradually reduce the demand for freshwater.
One example is our plant in Chennai, India. There, no wastewater is discharged into the sewer system or into natural water bodies. Instead, water used in production is treated in our own facility and reused – for operations, sanitary facilities, and the irrigation of green areas. Rainwater is also collected in reservoirs and purified through filter systems.
At several locations – including Wörth and Aksaray – we use separate sewer systems. These channel rainwater and sanitary wastewater separately, thereby easing the load on municipal treatment plants. Rainwater does not unnecessarily enter wastewater treatment but instead remains in the natural water cycle. This makes purification more efficient, saves energy, and conserves resources.
Once a year, we assess water-related risks at all of our production sites worldwide. This creates transparency around our water use and provides valuable insights for strategic planning. The results feed into corporate and site development, support the selection of water efficiency measures, and enable us to identify and mitigate risks such as water scarcity, flooding, or quality issues at an early stage.
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Protecting Biodiversity
Protecting biodiversity is also a key element of our environmental commitment. At our production sites, we promote nature-oriented green spaces and support projects that strengthen biodiversity and preserve habitats. We provide our sites with recommendations for action, guidelines, and opportunities to exchange knowledge in working groups – from the initial idea to implementation. In doing so, we work closely with experienced conservation organizations.
To further enhance biodiversity at our sites, we have developed our own Biodiversity Index. This tool enables us to assess the ecological quality of our areas and derive appropriate measures. Initially introduced in Germany, the index will also be applied internationally in the future.
It is especially important for us to inspire our employees about the importance of biodiversity. Through participatory campaigns and internal projects, we create opportunities to engage with nature – and demonstrate how each individual can contribute to protecting biodiversity.
Environmental Management in the Supply Chain
For us, environmental protection does not end at the factory gate – it is also an integral part of our collaboration with suppliers. That is why we make environmental requirements a binding element of our supplier selection and evaluation processes. Environmental standards such as eco-friendly production, efficient use of resources, and responsible management of chemicals and hazardous substances are clearly defined in our contracts.
Suppliers of production materials must demonstrate a certified environmental management system in accordance with ISO 14001, EMAS, or equivalent standards. In addition, we expect responsible handling of resources, chemicals, and hazardous substances – and we rely on continuous dialogue, evaluation tools, and training programs to support this.
Further information on our supply chain can be found under “Climate Protection.”
Our Ambitions at a Glance
As part of our “Green Production 2030” initiative, we have set the following environmental targets:
- We aim to reduce our water consumption by around 470,000 m³ by 2030 compared to the 2013/2014 baseline, further improving our resource efficiency.
- We strive to establish certified environmental management systems at all relevant sites to systematically manage and minimize our environmental impacts.
- We promote nature-oriented areas at all our sites to enhance biodiversity and contribute positively to local ecosystems.
