Presentation of the first sustainability report

Panariagroup, a world leader in ceramic surfaces, confirms its commitment to innovation by publishing the Sustainability Report 2016. It is among the first companies in Italy to use the latest standards (the GRI Standards) for the report.

In 2016 important results were achieved and significant initiatives were undertaken in the area of economic, environmental and social sustainability. In particular:

• Initiatives to limit emissions through investment and process innovation;
• Commitment to the reduction of raw materials and energy consumption;
• Focus on employee rights, in terms of both safety and long-term employment.

In addition, Panariagroup continues to increase investments in laminated porcelain tiles (the first ceramics Group to use this technology). Compared to the traditional product, the large, ultra-thin, innovative and sustainable slabs:

• reduce the thermal energy needed per m2 of the product by 50%;
• reduce the electric power needed per m2 of the product by 20%;
• reduce water consumption by 80%;
• reduce CO2 emissions to the atmosphere by 30%.

Panariagroup therefore combines substantial commitment and achievement in the area of sustainability and corporate responsibility with strong economic and financial performance, as shown in the in the recent half-yearly report.

The Group presented the main findings of the report with an event, “Responsibility and the Surface”, held in Milan on 13th September 2017. A round table with the journalist Luca Orlando as moderator and representatives of the world of business and architecture, including Deloitte Italy’s Sustainability Services Franco Amelio, and Mario Cucinella, world-renowned architect well known for his research and commitment to environmental sustainability in construction, as well as a for detailed knowledge of innovation in ceramic materials. For the presentation, Panariagroup joined Impact Zero®, the LifeGate project that compensates for the CO2 emissions generated by the event through the purchase of carbon credits from forestry planting and conservation projects.