Environment
We are working to reduce the environmental impact of our operations and products through climate action, renewable energy, circular product design, responsible resource use and improved environmental data management. In 2025, AUSTRIACARD further strengthened its environmental performance by reducing Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions, increasing self-generated renewable electricity and expanding the share of recycled materials in card production.
Reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving energy efficiency are key priorities across AUSTRIACARD HOLDINGS. During 2025, we achieved further reductions in Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions through lower fuel consumption, energy efficiency initiatives and increased use of renewable electricity. We continue to strengthen our climate data foundation and are developing a Group-wide climate transition plan that will include measurable decarbonisation targets and actions.
| KPI | 2024 | 2025 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scope 1 GHG emissions | 2,244 tCO2e | 2,210 tCO2e | -2% |
| Scope 2 GHG emissions – location-based | 4,023 tCO2e | 3,377 tCO2e | -16% |
| Scope 2 GHG emissions – market-based | 1,809 tCO2e | 1,346 tCO2e | -26% |
| Scope 3 GHG emissions | – | 68,500 tCO2e | Not comparable |
| Total energy consumption | 29,239 MWh | 28,541 MWh | -2% |
| Total renewable energy consumption | 15,376 MWh | 15,411 MWh | 0% |
| Renewable energy share | 53% | 54% | +1pp |
| Purchased electricity from renewables | 74% | 75% | +1pp |
| Self-generated renewable electricity | 2,246 MWh | 3,302 MWh | +47% |
A formal Group-wide climate transition plan has not yet been established. Building on the improved 2025 GHG inventory, AUSTRIACARD plans to develop a comprehensive climate transition plan in 2026, including measurable decarbonisation targets, energy efficiency pathways, material innovation and supply chain engagement. Scope 3 is presented with the 2025 value only, because the 2025 Scope 3 data is not directly comparable with 2024 due to methodological improvements and increased data quality.
Product sustainability is a core strategic priority for AUSTRIACARD. Through our Sustainable by Design approach, we focus on reducing virgin material use, increasing recycled and renewable inputs, promoting recycling solutions and supporting lower-carbon production processes.
| KPI | 2024 | 2025 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Recycled cards manufactured and sold | 34% | 49% | +15pp |
| Recycled PVC share in card production | 39% | 50% | +11pp |
| Entities with ISO 14001 certification | 8 | 10 | +2 |
| Entities with EcoVadis rating | 2 | 3 | +1 |
ReACt card bodies are manufactured using up to 99% recycled PVC sourced from industrial waste streams. Compared to conventional first-use PVC cards, ReACt supports a 57% reduction in CO2 emissions and contributes to a more circular production model. The product has again received Mastercard Card ECO-Certification in 2025 and is also certified by Visa.
ReVero card bodies are produced from PLA bioplastic derived from renewable resources. The card body is biodegradable and compostable under industrial conditions. In 2025, ReVero received its first Mastercard Card ECO-Certification, supporting AUSTRIACARD’s transition toward alternative materials.
AUSTRIACARD supports circular solutions through secure collection and recycling initiatives. In Poland, a pilot programme launched with Nest Bank and Visa enables customers to return expired payment cards for secure destruction and recycling of card materials.
Water consumption is not considered a material issue within AUSTRIACARD’s own operations, where direct water use is limited. However, water remains relevant in the upstream value chain, particularly due to semiconductor manufacturing. We monitor water consumption, wastewater treatment and compliance across our production facilities and continue to improve water-related data and local efficiency initiatives.
| KPI | 2024 | 2025 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total water consumption | 24,795 m³ | 20,757 m³ | -16% |
| Water consumption in areas at water risk | 11,858 m³ | 13,681 m³ | +15% |
| Water intensity ratio | 69.85 m³/mEUR | 61.96 m³/mEUR | -11% |
Several entities operate water recycling or reuse systems, including biological wastewater treatment, water-saving production machinery, filtration systems and closed-loop systems. No penalties were incurred for water-related regulatory breaches during the 2025 reporting period.
For detailed disclosures, ESG performance data, methodology notes, ESRS information and EU Taxonomy KPIs, please download the full ESG Report 2025.