Bringing down greenhouse gas emissions to mitigate global warming is imperative. The chemical industry is energy- and emissions-intensive, while providing essential materials for almost the entire economy. Becoming climate-neutral is not out of reach and Borealis is committed to contributing to this transformation.
Today, we’re speaking with Thomas Van De Velde, Senior Vice President Base Chemicals, and Ouafik El Kasmioui, Group Energy & Utilities Sourcing Manager.
Borealis has recently achieved a significant milestone in its environmental sustainability journey. Please tell us more about this achievement.
This year, Borealis has reached 50% of its goal to source 100% of our electricity from renewable sources by 2030. This milestone highlights our commitment to sustainability by reducing our carbon footprint. I am very proud of our team and the great progress they have made for all of us.
Thomas Van De Velde, Senior Vice President Base Chemicals
That’s impressive! Ouafik, could you elaborate on the strategies and partnerships that have helped Borealis achieve this milestone so quickly?
Ouafik El Kasmioui: Most recently we’ve partnered with renewable power providers like Axpo in Belgium, Burgenland Energie in Austria, and Vattenfall in Sweden, securing long-term Power Purchase Agreements. These partnerships ensure a steady and reliable supply of renewable energy. This is how we contribute to reducing our Scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions and support the broader energy transition in our operating regions.
Ouafik, what challenges have you and your team faced in this journey, and how have you overcome them?
Ensuring the reliability and consistency of renewable power supply has indeed been demanding. We’ve truly diversified our energy sources and built strong relationships with multiple providers. Flexibility and proactive management are key.
Ouafik El Kasmioui, Group Energy & Utilities Sourcing Manager
This year also marks Borealis’ 30th anniversary. How does this achievement fit into the broader context of Borealis’ history and future?
Thomas: Achieving 50% of our renewable power goal already in 2024 reflects our dedication to Re-inventing Essentials for Sustainable Living. We are proud that we are ahead of our intermediate target of reaching 40% renewable power in our electricity mix by 2025. We remain dedicated to our sustainability goals and will continue this journey with the support of our partners.
When Borealis reduces CO2 emissions, how does this benefit the entire value chain?
Ouafik: Reducing CO2 emissions creates ripple effects across the entire value chain by tackling Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions. Scope 1 covers direct emissions from our operations, Scope 2 focuses on emissions from purchased electricity, and Scope 3 encompasses all other indirect emissions, including those from our suppliers and customers. By addressing all three scopes, we not only reduce our environmental impact but also enable our partners and customers to achieve their own sustainability goals.This milestone underscores the power of collaboration—sustainability is a shared journey, and we’re proud to work alongside stakeholders who share our vision. Together, we’re creating meaningful change and driving progress toward a more sustainable future.
Thank you both for sharing these insights. It’s inspiring to see Borealis’ commitment to sustainability and the tangible progress being made.Keep discovering for more stories!
