This year (2024), Thursday 1 August, marks Earth Overshoot Day, the point in the year when humanity’s consumption exceeds the Earth’s capacity to regenerate natural resources. The growing global population and increasing urbanisation have driven consumption levels to unsustainable heights, highlighting the urgent need for change.
As a leading global manufacturer, Tarkett recognises its role in this critical issue and is taking significant steps to mitigate its environmental impact. As such, we have committed to increasing the use of recycled materials in our products from 17% to 30% by 2030, a pledge validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). This ambitious goal, which is just one of many, aims to reduce the reliance on virgin raw materials and contribute to the global movement to move the date of Earth Overshoot Day.
Over the past year, Tarkett has implemented several innovative initiatives to promote sustainable practices and closed-loop circular design, including:
Reducing Emissions
Tarkett has made great progress in enhancing its environmental footprint by increasing the share of renewable energy sources in its total energy consumption. In 2023, 44% of the energy used came from renewable sources, and 13 production sites used exclusively renewable electricity. Additionally, Tarkett reduced its scope 3 value chain emissions by 14% compared to the emissions in 2019.
Minimising Waste
In 2023, Tarkett made significant strides by using 154,000 tonnes of recycled materials, which replaced virgin raw materials. This accounted for 18% of the raw materials used, intending to reach 30% by 2030. The use of recycled materials not only reduces waste but also avoids 188,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions, equivalent to the annual emissions of 105,000 cars.
Promoting Environmental Stewardship
ReStart®, a hassle-free flooring take-back and recycling programme, has been instrumental in repurposing end-of-use flooring and recycled materials to create new floors, showcasing Tarkett’s dedication to circular economy principles. Operating in 29 countries, ReStart® has collected an impressive amount of flooring material, totalling 119,000 tonnes—equivalent to the weight of 12 Eiffel Towers—for recycling.
As Earth Overshoot Day serves as a stark reminder of the challenges we face, Tarkett’s proactive measures illustrate the importance of corporate responsibility in fostering a sustainable future. By prioritising recycling and resource efficiency, Tarkett is not only addressing its environmental impact but also paving the way for a healthier planet for generations to come. Find out more about our approach to sustainability.
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