INDUSTRY NEWS
HENKEL SOUTH AFRICA CHAMPIONS SUSTAINABILITY WITH LANDMARK INITIATIVES
Henkel South Africa has set a bold precedent in its commitment to sustainability with two transformative milestones : the success of its inaugural Sustainability Indaba and the launch of its 100 % sustainable solarpowered Alrode manufacturing plant . These initiatives exemplify Henkel ’ s dedication to addressing pressing environmental challenges and fostering meaningful change across South Africa and beyond .
In October 2024 , Henkel hosted its first-ever Sustainability Indaba in Johannesburg , bringing together a diverse group of stakeholders , including industry leaders , Henkel team members , and sustainability experts . The event aimed to facilitate dialogue on the urgent need for sustainable practices and explore innovative strategies to build a resilient future . The Indaba featured a distinguished lineup of speakers , including Henkel ’ s
Global Director of Sustainability Strategy , Sjoerd Dijkstra ; Youssef Bouhaouala , Sustainability Manager for Adhesive Technologies in the India , Middle East , and Africa region ; Kate Stubbs , Business Development and Marketing Director at Interwaste ; Emilie Delevallee , CEO of Iroko Africa ; James Godfrey , Head of Technical Marketing at Discovery Green ; and Matt Muller , Senior Manager in Sustainability and Strategy at PwC .
The event underscored the importance of embedding sustainability as a core business value , highlighting Henkel ’ s dedication to integrating Environmental , Social , and Governance ( ESG ) principles into its operations . According to Sjoerd Dijkstra , “ Sustainability is not just a goal — it is a responsibility that requires action from all of us . By aligning innovation with sustainability , Henkel aims to lead by example and inspire others to join the movement .” A recurring theme throughout the Indaba was the need for collective responsibility . Discussions emphasised that meaningful progress requires collaboration among corporations , governments , and individuals . Sustainability , as the panelists noted , extends beyond boardroom discussions ; it demands actionable contributions from every level of society . Henkel ’ s approach to sustainability reflects this ethos , with initiatives designed to engage employees , empower communities , and foster partnerships that drive change .
The event also explored key strategies for achieving sustainability goals . One such strategy is the transition to renewable energy , which was exemplified by Henkel ’ s newly completed solar farm at the Alrode manufacturing plant . Officially launched in January 2025 , the solar farm represents a groundbreaking achievement in sustainable operations . With a peak capacity of 1.8 megawatts , the solar installation meets 100 % of the plant ’ s electricity needs during daytime operations . This initiative not only reduces the plant ’ s reliance on the national grid but also significantly lowers its greenhouse gas emissions , contributing to Henkel ’ s broader net-zero roadmap .
The solar farm is seamlessly integrated into the Alrode plant ’ s energy grid , enabling real-time adaptation to energy demands . During the day , the plant operates entirely on solar power , while at night , energy needs are met through a combination of grid electricity and renewable energy certifications . This dual
aBr WORDS IN ACTION 42 JANUARY • FEBRUARY • MARCH 2025