Preventing and managing pollution across operations and the value chain
The release of air, water and soil pollutants can lead to significant environmental and health impacts, depending on the type and concentration of emissions. Sika is committed to protecting the environment and to compliance with all applicable environmental laws, permits and regulatory requirements.
Own operations
Regulations related to the environment vary widely between regions and countries. Sika therefore delegates the responsibility for environmental compliance to the operating subsidiaries. The Group also maintains a Corporate Management System (CMS) that applies to all locations and employees and fulfils the requirements of ISO 14001 and ISO 50001. Sika companies implement their local Sika Management Systems based on the CMS and local regulatory and legal requirements. Newly acquired companies are integrated under the CMS.
All Sika local companies must comply with applicable laws and regulations related to air emissions parameters. This topic is managed directly by local operation facilities in accordance with local regulations and internal guidelines. The Group monitors the following air emissions parameters: NOx, SOx, CO emissions, VOC, and dust.
All local companies must comply with applicable laws, permits, and regulatory requirements governing water discharge. Effluent quality is monitored against key parameters such as pH, temperature, chemical oxygen demand (COD), and suspended solids — to ensure full alignment with local regulatory thresholds.
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Upstream value chain
At supplier level, it is important that the chosen suppliers are committed to the same sustainability standards as Sika. Suppliers must operate in full compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and international standards – including health, safety, and environmental laws and regulations – effective both for their operations and products. The Sika Supplier Code of Conduct, which sets out Sika’s expectations for the supplier network, as well as clear rules and guidelines on environmental standards that must be implemented by Sika suppliers.
Given the limited direct ability to influence upstream pollution, incidents, or accidental releases by Sika, the primary mechanism for addressing this topic is its Supply Chain Due Diligence approach. This includes supplier qualification, evaluation and collaboration to promote responsible business practices regarding emissions to air, water and soil.