SKF received the 2023 Supplier Sustainability Award from Pratt & Whitney at its annual supplier forum on Oct. 17 in Hartford, CT. Pratt & Whitney recognized SKF for its commitment to environmental impact reductions. SKF's Aerospace Business Unit manufactures bearings, rings and seals for aerospace applications.
"SKF is honored to be recognized by Pratt & Whitney, a leader in developing more sustainable aviation through aircraft propulsion technology. At SKF, sustainability is an integral part of our strategy and culture as we enable rotation for a better tomorrow, and we work to integrate sustainability in everything we do – in our operations, offers and our company's purpose," said Joe Brent, Global Account manager, SKF Aerospace.
SKF is committed to decarbonized operations by 2030 and Net Zero emissions in the entire value chain by 2050. As part of its commitment to transparency and collaboration, SKF joined the Science Based Target Initiative (SBTI) in July 2021, meaning their near- and long-term science-based emission reduction targets are verified.
The company received platinum status for the third year in a row, ranking in the top 1% of all companies assessed by EcoVadis, one of the world's most trusted providers of sustainability ratings for use in supply chains. SKF also received an A- ranking from CDP, the global non-profit that runs the world's largest climate and environmental disclosure system for companies, cities, states and regions.
SKF has already taken an important step toward this goal by investing in more energy-efficient manufacturing processes and requiring energy-intensive suppliers of steel and forgings to adopt the ISO 50001 standard for systematic energy management. 85% of all suppliers in scope now have this certification.
During the Forum, Corey Vann, Pratt & Whitney senior manager of Environmental Sustainability, commended SKF on these commitments while also highlighting efforts that reach beyond environmental stewardship. "In addition to all of this, they remain committed to improving the local communities in which they operate."
"We are making efforts to reduce energy consumption in our facilities with significant investments planned, and we are moving away from fossil fuels. We provide clean technology solutions by focusing on development of lighter, more efficient, longer lasting, repairable, and ultimately, recyclable products to enable longer life cycle during the use phase by our customers," continued Brent. "We look forward to partnering with Pratt & Whitney to reach our shared goals for sustainability and growth: "Together, for cleaner skies."
SKF is on a journey to enable rotation for a better tomorrow through industrial sustainability. The company recognizes the urgent need for a clean, responsible, net-zero, and fully circular society. SKF focuses on providing clean technology solutions for industrial transformation and continually improving its products to be lighter, more efficient, longer-lasting, repairable, and recyclable. This approach benefits the environment and supports its customers in achieving sustainability and growth goals.