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PCNA's 2024 Sustainability Report: A Step Forward in Eco-Friendly Initiatives

Polyconcept North America (PCNA), a prominent player in the promotional products industry, has unveiled its 2024 Sustainability Report, underscoring the significant strides made towards achieving its environmental and social advocacy goals. Since the previous report in 2022, PCNA has integrated sustainability deeply into its business framework, ensuring that every decision made reflects a commitment to ecological responsibility and social wellbeing.

Key Achievements in Sustainability

In its latest report, PCNA shines a light on numerous milestones achieved by 2024, some of which include:

1. Energy Reduction: The organization successfully reduced its energy intensity by 12% from 2023, meeting its 2026 goal two years ahead of schedule. Additionally, there was a 20.5% decrease in Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions since 2022, aligning with its overall target of a 42% reduction.

2. Workplace Safety Improvements: PCNA recorded a Total Recordable Incidents Rate (TRIR) of 0.87, significantly below the intended benchmark of less than 1. This metric reflects the company's commitment to fostering a safe working environment and a robust safety culture.

3. Waste Management: At its Leed's facility, the waste diversion rate surged from 76% in 2023 to 83% in 2024, leading to savings exceeding $110,000 in operational costs.

4. Comprehensive Climate Risk Assessments: PCNA completed thorough risk analyses for all eight of its facilities, assessing potential threats from flooding, wildfires, cyclones, water stress, and heatwaves as projected through 2050.

5. Community Contributions: Through its commitment to “1% for the Planet,” the company donated $1.26 million in 2024 alone, accumulating a total of $3 million. The funds have facilitated the establishment of 159 new community orchards via a partnership with nonprofit organization The Giving Grove, introducing fresh produce and aiding in carbon sequestration efforts.

6. Social Employment Initiatives: Partnerships with local organizations, such as Best Buddies and Hello Neighbor, have enhanced opportunities for underserved communities. PCNA's internal programs, Leading Inclusively for Future Talent (LIFT) and Fair Chance Employment, continue to support inclusive hiring practices.

7. Regulatory Leadership in Supply Chain: The introduction of a supplier risk-screening program and increased compliance with Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations have fortified PCNA's procurement process against future market fluctuations.

8. Innovative Product Development: The company adopted a pioneering approach by implementing product lifecycle assessments (LCAs) to inform material choices that minimize environmental impacts. One case study highlighted up to an impressive 88% reduction in cradle-to-gate emissions.

Strategic Approach to Sustainability

Initially, PCNA conducted a materiality assessment to pinpoint vital environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors crucial for its long-term success. This evaluation shifted the company's framework from general sustainability aspirations to focusing on specific competencies in four pivotal qualifications:

• - Product Optimization
• - Supply Chain Intelligence
• - Climate Risk Management
• - Governance and Regulatory Preparedness

Nick McCulloch, PCNA's Director of ESG, noted, “Our objective has been to embed sustainability into the core of our operations. By establishing clear performance targets and maintaining accountability, we demonstrate that sustainability drives both positive environmental impact and business growth.”

Future Initiatives

Looking forward, PCNA is preparing to set science-based emission reduction targets for Scopes 1, 2, and 3 for submission to the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) by 2026. The company is also enhancing climate risk assessments for its suppliers in line with California Senate Bill 261 to be compliant with forthcoming regulations. Furthermore, they are prioritizing improvements in product materials, longevity, and end-of-life design to meet growing customer demands and regulatory expectations, supported by comprehensive lifecycle assessment data.

Commitment to Stakeholders

PCNA's report reaffirms its dedication to the ProudPath™ objectives, centered around environmental stewardship, social accountability, and community involvement. CEO Neil Ringel assured stakeholders, “Sustainability is embedded in our identity. This report signifies our unwavering commitment to being a responsible ally to our customers, employees, and the communities we serve.”

By integrating environmental and social considerations into every operational aspect, PCNA is not only shaping a resilient business model but also cultivating an environment that extends substantial benefits beyond simple profit margins.

For the complete 2024 Sustainability Report, visit www.pcna.com/proudpath.