BKT’s 2023–24 sustainability report reflects environmental achievements and commitment to company’s Indian roots

BKT has launched its sustainability report for the financial year 2023-24. Promoting Sustainable Growth with Off-Highway Excellence is the company's third sustainability report and its second Business Responsibility & Sustainability Report (BRSR), a milestone that reflects BKT's concrete and measurable commitment to a more sustainable future.

Aligned with international standards set by the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), the report has also received verification from Bureau Veritas, a respected independent organization. This validation ensures that every result and progress reported is the product of transparent, verifiable practices consistent with global sustainability expectations.

The data confirms the holistic approach to sustainability taken by BKT during the reporting period, underscoring the authentic commitment extended to the principles of sustainable innovation, social, environmental, and corporate responsibility. Here are some key achievements:

• Emission reduction and energy management: BKT has reduced its consumption of non-renewable electricity by 26 percent, increasing the use of renewable energy by six percent, which has made it possible to cut a total of 28,000 tons of carbon dioxide.
• Circular economy and waste management: 99 percent of the waste generated was recycled or reused, with a 33 percent increase in recycling and a 22 percent reduction in plastic waste.
• Protection of biodiversity and water management: The multinational has planted 25,000 new trees and reduced water withdrawal by 43 percent in areas at risk of water stress.
• Sustainable materials: over 91,000 tons of renewable materials were used in their main products.

In addition to these environmental achievements, the new report highlights the strong social commitment shown by BKT, which adopts a responsible supply chain. Strict environmental and social criteria are applied to suppliers, ensuring respect for human rights and environmental protection.

The company has also provided more than 350,000 hours of training to employees and invested more than €3.4 million in 21 corporate responsibility projects, benefiting communities in the areas where production facilities are located.

Rajiv Poddar, joint managing director of BKT, said: "Sustainability, for us, is not just a word, but a tangible and measurable commitment. Every initiative we undertake is designed to generate a positive impact, not only on the environment, but also on the people and communities around us."

Rajiv Poddar further pointed out: "We are aware that there may still be preconceptions about companies that produce outside Europe, especially in certain geographical areas such as India. However, what really matters are the facts. And the facts, as our recent report shows, are clear and verifiable."

Finally, he concluded: "We do not make proclamations and then relocate to European countries with low labour costs. On the contrary, we are deeply connected to our Indian roots, and we feel a strong sense of responsibility to share the benefits of our success with the communities that 'raised' us. India is part of our DNA, and it is here that we invest to ensure fair wages and to promote lasting economic and social development. This is our commitment, which not only reflects our values, but is also confirmed and verified by internationally renowned partners such as Bureau Veritas, which attests to the transparency and reliability of each of our results."

The company's commitment towards its Indian origin, along with product quality and sustainability, allows BKT to compete at the highest levels in both the original equipment and spare parts markets. BKT tires, widely used by both manufacturers and in the aftermarket, are indeed appreciated for their high performance and compliance with strict international standards.