Protecting biodiversity and ecological values

Preserving biodiversity and ecological values - including ecosystems, environmentally sensitive areas, and vulnerable species - has become increasingly important in today’s sustainability landscape.

In 2024, Nolato conducted a comprehensive analysis using the TNFD (Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures) methodology to assess its impacts, risks, opportunities, and dependencies related to biodiversity and ecosystems.

Nolato’s operations are characterized by a relatively passive production process: raw polymer materials are melted and molded into components, which are sometimes assembled into subsystems or finished products. Since the production process generates minimal noise, gas, or liquid emissions, Nolato’s direct impact on biodiversity is generally low. The analysis concludes that operations at Nolato’s production sites have a limited negative effect on biodiversity.

Nonetheless, there are important factors that require continued attention - such as maintaining certified environmental management systems (ISO 14001) and strengthening plastic waste management. Additionally, land use and physical changes during the expansion of production sites can affect local habitats and sensitive ecosystems. In these cases, Nolato applies the mitigation hierarchy: to avoid, minimize, restore, and, if necessary, offset any negative impact on the natural environment. Working proactively in this way not only protects biodiversity but also supports the efficient planning and execution of new projects.

Significant biodiversity impacts may instead arise in other parts of the value chain. Upstream, the extraction and processing of raw materials – regardless if it is fossil-based or bio-based feedstocks - can affect ecosystems and natural habitats. One of the most impactful steps Nolato can take is therefore to increase the use of recycled materials. Recycled polymers reduce the demand for virgin raw materials and thus help prevent new impacts on biotopes at the source.

Nolato manages these upstream impacts by selecting suppliers and materials that meet clearly defined product specifications and comply with Nolato’s Supplier Code of Conduct. The analysis also identified an opportunity for Nolato to influence the broader value chain: by initiating dialogue, asking the right questions, and progressively introducing expectations and requirements related to biodiversity and ecosystems for suppliers and their subcontractors.