The United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) have provided a global framework for environmental, social and economic development since 2015. SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 7 (Clean Energy), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), SDG 12 (Sustainable Consumption and Production) and SDG 13 (Climate Action) are particularly relevant for industrial companies. BASF Coatings bundles its sustainability measures along these goals. SDG 13 focuses on strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Almost 70% of the company's global electricity requirements now come from renewable sources. The paint manufacturer is also developing CO₂-reduced coatings and more efficient painting processes, including those based on the biomass balance method.
Innovation for sustainable surface solutions
In line with SDG 9, BASF Coatings is working with partners on energy- and material-efficient processes. These include the sharkskin surface film introduced together with Lufthansa Technik to improve the aerodynamics of aircraft. The Viant coating technology combines conversion and primer layers in a single process step, thus reducing the amount of resources required. The overspray-free application process also enables two-tone coatings without separate steps and reduces energy consumption and emissions.
Training and further education in line with SDG 4
The company also focuses on high-quality education. More than 130 young people are currently completing an apprenticeship or dual study program at the Münster and Würzburg sites. In addition, BASF Coatings offers modular training programs for employees - from technical training to digital skills. Initiatives such as "Jugend forscht" or the R-M Best Painter Contest also support young professionals in the refinishing industry.