Environment & Climate

Resource conservation meets foresight.

A bee flies among blooming flowers under a clear sky. Nolte Kitchens.

Our environment in view

Less emissions, more efficiency.

Environmental protection is more than a requirement for us – it is part of our daily decisions. We rely on energy-efficient processes, 100% green electricity at all locations, and resource-conserving production. At the same time, we think in cycles, reduce packaging material, optimize our logistics, and promote sustainable mobility. Our goal: to keep the impact of our business activities on the environment as low as possible – today and in the future.

Produce efficiently

with system and own energy

As a manufacturer with responsibility, we continuously invest in climate protection and the reduction of our emissions. At our production sites in Löhne and Melle, we rely on a certified energy management system (DIN EN ISO 50001), modern, energy-efficient machines, and resource-conserving processes. Our entire electricity demand is covered 100% with certified green electricity. We produce around 98% of our thermal energy ourselves by utilizing wood chips and scraps from our own production. Additionally, we are further expanding our photovoltaic systems on suitable roofs – for more self-generated electricity and a better climate balance.

Three large yellow silos with "Nolte Kitchen" written on them stand against a clear sky.

Nolte GlossaryWhat are Scope 1, 2, and 3?

Scope 1: Direct emissions from own sources – e.g. from company-owned heating, vehicles, or production facilities.

Scope 2: Indirect emissions from purchased energy – for example, electricity used for operations.

Scope 3: Other indirect emissions along the value chain – e.g. from the production of purchased materials, transport, use, or disposal of products.

Climate goal in focus

A central goal of our climate strategy is the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from Scope 1 and 2 by 50% by 2030 – based on the base year 2019. Unavoidable emissions are offset by internationally recognized compensation certificates according to the Gold Standard, thus securing our carbon-neutral balance sheet.

Since 2023, we have also been analyzing and balancing the most important Scope 3 emissions in the upstream and downstream supply chain in order to implement data-based reduction measures in the future. We will create a complete Scope 3 balance sheet and a roadmap with measurable reduction targets in the future – in line with the 1.5-degree target of the Paris Agreement.

Our climate strategy takes into account both direct and indirect emissions along the entire value chain. We rely on transparency, science-based targets, and continuous improvements – with the clear goal of systematically and long-term reducing our CO₂ footprint.

Create awareness together

Sustainability begins in the mind – and thrives through commitment. Therefore, Nolte Küchen regularly initiates events around environmental and resource topics, promotes dialogue, and invites participation. With annual reforestation campaigns, we make an active contribution to climate protection and at the same time strengthen environmental awareness. And we also make a statement directly on-site: On our company premises, we provide a protected home for several bee colonies – for more biodiversity and a vibrant ecosystem.

A bee sits on a purple flower in the sunshine, Nolte Kitchen.

Several people planting trees in a forested area.

A person arranging moss in a wooden frame.

Circular economy & resource efficiency

Resource conservation begins with us already at purchasing: we procure chipboards precisely cut to size to avoid waste. Our production is geared towards maximum material efficiency – for example, through optimized machine technology and regular waste analyses at our main facilities.

Our chipboards come from various suppliers offering recycled wood content between 20 % and 100 %. In 2023, the average recycling content of our purchased chipboards was 61 %. Additionally, we pay attention to sourcing woods from certified suppliers (FSC^®, PEFC and TSCA), ensuring that over 99% of our wood meets sustainable criteria.

We also offer a wide range of spare parts and repair services to extend the lifespan of our products. The goal is to keep resources in circulation and avoid waste. Our strategy focuses on durable, sustainable products and the increased use of recyclates.

Packaging & Logistics

Our transport and protective packaging mainly consists of recyclable materials such as cardboard, wood, and films. We hand these over to certified waste disposal companies, allowing 83.2% of our waste to be recycled in 2023.

We work with our packaging suppliers on innovative solutions to reduce plastic and improve packaging efficiency. Many components are delivered to us in reusable packaging, which we return to the suppliers in a closed loop.

Our freight company also supports us with route optimization and reduction of empty runs. Only Euro-6 and LNG vehicles are used.

Sustainable Mobility

Since 2023, we have been promoting e-mobility with a holistic mobility concept. Our employees can lease fully electric company vehicles and charge them at company-owned charging stations. This not only reduces our operational emissions but also strengthens awareness of sustainable drive technologies.

Furthermore, we support environmentally friendly commutes – for example, through e-bike leasing and additional mobility offers as part of our benefits. In this way, we create attractive incentives for climate-friendly mobility – both professionally and in everyday life.