Our CO₂ Developments in 2025

This year, we once again underwent an audit for the CO₂ Performance Ladder. We are proud to announce that we have once again been certified for the CO₂ Performance Ladder. Our ambition is to be CO₂-neutral at both of our locations by 2035. Since 2024, our location in Geldermalsen has already been CO₂-neutral.

In 2025, we achieved only 11% emissions compared to the reference year 2019. This is slightly higher than our target of 10%, but given the harsh winter, it is still an outstanding achievement. Below, we outline the key developments that explain these figures.

How does the CO₂ calculation work? And what are the key components?

CO₂ emissions are calculated based on energy consumption and fuel use. Each energy source (such as natural gas, diesel, or electricity) has a specific emission factor that indicates how much CO₂ is released per unit of consumption. By multiplying consumption by the relevant emission factors, total emissions are determined. These emissions are then compared to the reference year (2019) to measure progress.

Below are the main developments in 2025 that explain the results:

  • 2025 was colder than 2024, especially in February. As a result, CO₂ emissions from natural gas consumption in IJsselstein accounted for more than 7% of the total 11% emissions in 2025, compared to just over 6% in 2024.
  • In 2025, almost everyone drives electric or hybrid. The share of emissions from business diesel drivers at SAB has therefore decreased.
  • Midway through 2025, electric forklifts were introduced in Geldermalsen. As a result, we are already seeing a reduction in CO₂ emissions.
  • The solar panels in Geldermalsen performed optimally in 2025 and generated more electricity than in 2024. This is beneficial because it reduces the need to purchase additional green electricity.
  • Total energy consumption increased. This was expected, as most electricity is used in production, and production experienced significant growth.

Looking ahead to 2026 and our goal of achieving 10% emissions compared to the 2019 reference year, it will be a challenge. The year 2026 started off cold, with heavy snowfall, and natural gas plays a major role in the overall figures.

How will we improve this?

  • By keeping warehouse doors closed as much as possible, we can reduce heat loss.
  • We will reassess the settings and performance of our warehouse heating systems to maintain a comfortable working climate while minimizing natural gas usage.
  • Further electrification of company vehicles, avoiding short-haul flights, and the continued use of electric forklifts will also make a positive contribution to reducing CO₂ emissions in 2026.

What is the CO₂ Performance Ladder?

An important part of this certification is the annual calculation of our CO₂ emissions, along with setting targets and policies to further reduce these emissions.

The CO₂ Performance Ladder is a Dutch instrument and management system that helps organizations structurally map, reduce, and communicate their CO₂ emissions. It encourages sustainable practices by focusing on emission reductions, including those within the supply chain (chain partners).

The system works with certification levels (Levels 1 through 5). Higher certification levels demonstrate greater commitment and more advanced CO₂ management. These higher levels are rewarded with a fictional award advantage in public tenders, providing a competitive benefit during procurement procedures.