Award for Sustainable Responsibility

06.12.2024

Responsible environmental management has always been firmly anchored in the corporate philosophy of Erfurt & Sohn. All business processes aim to align with a location-specific sustainability strategy, focusing on climate protection, resource conservation, and social sustainability. The company, now in its 8th generation, demonstrates how economic and ecological actions can successfully complement each other. Furthermore, with the goal of making its products circular in line with the Cradle-to-Cradle principle, the company is preparing for the future. These efforts are driven by CEO Felicitas Erfurt-Gordon, who has been responsible for sustainability since 2020. For her dedication, she was awarded the BAUM Environmental and Sustainability Award 2024 in the "Large Company" category.

The BAUM e.V. network strives to create a livable future through sustainable business practices. Founded in 1984, the German Business Circle for Environmentally Conscious Management (BAUM e.V.) successfully integrates economic, ecological, and social aspects of sustainability. The award focuses on individuals who actively implement and promote environmental and sustainability management. Felicitas Erfurt-Gordon received the recognition for her commitment to resource and environmental protection at the company and her efforts to establish a circular economy. A key milestone in this journey was the launch of the first 100% climate-neutral wallpaper in 2020. The resource conservation strategy continues the company’s commitment to environmentally sustainable practices. By consistently using recycled paper instead of virgin pulp, Erfurt & Sohn also sets an example for the industry and its competitors. The goal of doubling the share of products made from 100% recycled fibers by 2024 has already been exceeded.

Since 2021, Erfurt & Sohn has been preparing an annual carbon footprint report, initiated by Felicitas Erfurt-Gordon, to inform future climate protection strategies. The report shows that Erfurt & Sohn can exceed the 1.5°C target. From 2023 to 2024, CO₂ emissions were reduced by 20%, surpassing the required 4.2% annual reduction by four times. "We are currently working towards Cradle-to-Cradle certification," says Felicitas Erfurt-Gordon. "The construction industry is the largest waste producer in Germany, accounting for 64% of waste and 30% of CO₂ emissions. As a wallpaper manufacturer, we see ourselves as part of circular building practices and feel responsible for doing better. Establishing a full circular economy is the only logical consequence. I want to take responsibility for our location and employees, and I see it as my duty to make our company future-proof and contribute to resource conservation."

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