ICRO Coatings, an Italian company with over 75 years of experience in the coatings sector, has published its first Sustainability Report, marking a strategic step toward an integrated approach to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) management. The document outlines a journey that began in the 1980s and has now evolved into concrete objectives aligned with the 2030 Agenda and GRI standards.
A longstanding commitment
As early as the 1980s, ICRO introduced UV technologies to reduce VOC emissions and developed water-based coatings, anticipating emerging needs in safety and sustainability. In recent years, the company has invested in:
- Renewable energy: photovoltaic systems of 80 kWp (2011) and 350 kWp (2024).
- Bio-coatings: paints formulated with plant-based solvents and resins, without compromising on performance.
- Reforestation projects: 700 Paulownia trees planted at the Cinto Caomaggiore site to offset emissions.
2024 Results
- Economic value generated: €36.18 million (+2.9% vs. 2023).
- Energy: 366,378 kWh self-produced through photovoltaics (+362% vs. 2023).
- Waste: 562 tons, with 66% of non-hazardous waste sent for recovery.
- Packaging: 20% sustainable, featuring certified recycled steel.
- Training: 266 hours of training, with a focus on safety and sustainability.
- Equality and inclusion: zero cases of discrimination; 100% return rate after parental leave.
Governance and Transparency
ICRO has adopted:
- The Model 231 for risk prevention.
- ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001 certifications.
- EcoVadis (bronze medal 2023) and ISO 14067 for Carbon Footprint calculation.
Key objectives 2025–2030
- Emission reduction: –20% CO₂ (Scope 1) and VOC emissions.
- Energy: 50% from renewable sources by 2030.
- Circular economy: –20% non-recyclable waste per unit of product.
- Product innovation: at least 80% of R&D projects dedicated to UV and water-based coatings.
- Safety and welfare: +30% products carrying “caution” instead of “danger” labeling; corporate welfare exceeding 75% of contractual minimums.
Looking ahead
The report is not a final destination, but the beginning of a long-term strategy: “Better life with innovation.” ICRO aims to integrate ESRS standards and become a strategic partner for supply chains increasingly focused on sustainability.
ICRO demonstrates that innovation and responsibility can coexist, turning sustainability from a constraint into a competitive advantage.
