Appliance Retailer Sustainability Report April-May 2024

Sustainability

Sustainability:

A business imperative

Euromonitor International insights show that the corporate sustainability landscape is quickly evolving, transitioning from a nice-to-have to a business imperative. Demand for authentic corporate accountability has never been more crucial, with both consumers and regulators keeping a close eye on greenwashing.

Transparency is a key factor towards combating greenwashing, with consumers becoming more savvy and regulators more vigilant.

According to Euromonitor’s Voice of the Industry Survey 2023, close to half (45%) of global respondents indicated plans to invest in certifications to avoid greenwashing over the next five years.

The amplified demand for transparency requires a holistic approach to sustainability, from sourcing and production to marketing and sales, to show consumers – not just tell them – how companies are making a positive impact.

By integrating sustainability into the core business strategy, companies can enhance their environmental and social impact, as well as boost their bottom line.

According to the Euromonitor survey, selected climate-related actions that companies are currently investing or planning to invest in, include recycling, improving energy efficiency, optimising energy use, using sustainable packaging, switching to renewable energy, reducing food waste and supporting suppliers to decrease emissions.

The survey also revealed that almost one in four (23%) global consumers seek ethically conscious claims when buying home care products. To appeal to this group of consumers, businesses must have sustainable product features at reasonable prices, prioritising transparency and providing relevant information.

Overall, price-driven decisions are leading consumers to prioritise value for money when purchasing home care products. This has led to a shift towards sustainability actions as a cost-saving solution. Optimising energy efficiency and embracing circularity have become more popular, while consumers expect companies to act and provide affordable options.

ABOVE: Electrolux UltimateTaste French Door refrigerator.

Brands share latest sustainability achievements

Reflecting on recent sustainability achievements, Electrolux highlighted the replacement of a gas fuelled furnace with an electric furnace at its Adelaide cooking plant in March 2024. Integral to the appliance enamelling process, the furnace installation results in the removal of nonrenewable energy sources.

“To further our commitment in our sustainability journey and removal of non-renewable energy sources, the fleet of forklifts at the Adelaide cooking plant will be transitioned to electric,” Electrolux managing director for ANZ, Kurt Hegvold said.

“Construction of our 6-star energy rated Queensland distribution centre at the Port of Brisbane is underway and follows the design approach taken at the Ravenhall facility in Melbourne. Scheduled for completion in late 2024, the sustainable design attributes ensure the facility will serve the Electrolux Group’s future growth ambitions.

“The hydrogen fuelled ‘HyHome’ display facility in Melbourne illustrates the Electrolux Group’s approach to keeping an open mind on alternative energy sources as interest increases regarding the viability of gas as a fuel source. We will be supporting a similar development in Western Australia later in the year as we continue to review opportunities to contribute to the testing of new sources while ensuring we continue to invest in our induction cooking range.

“Having already reduced more than 80% of our absolute emissions from operations (scope 1 and 2) and more than 25% of emissions when our products are in use (scope 3) compared with 2015 –three years ahead of plan – we were proud to have our second science-based climate target approved at the end of 2023.”

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Electrolux has replaced a gas fuelled furnace with an electric furnace at its Adelaide cooking plant. ”

The sustainability journey started at Arçelik approximately 16 years ago and a commitment to SBTi (Science Based Target Initiative) was made in 2017. The scope of Arçelik’s sustainability efforts range from increasing energy efficiency in production, improving water and waste management and tackling plastic pollution to moving towards a circular economy model, developing products that create environmental and social value.

“As the impact of global warming and environmental degradation become clearer, we believe now is the time for action. While there is a business case

Better Living Program

Marking the start of

to be made – future proofing against government regulation, the ability to attract talent and positive consumer regard – more importantly, there is also a human case,” Beko marketing manager for ANZ, Amanda Hart said.

“Our sustainability initiatives continued to be recognised by several authorities in 2023. For the fifth consecutive year, Arçelik scored highest among 46 companies assessed in DHP Household Durable Industry in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index of the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment, as the only company in our industry in the top 1%.

“For the fourth consecutive year, Arçelik made the Corporate Knights ‘2024 Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations in the World’ ranking 60th globally and first in the household durables industry.

“Arçelik was also listed in the Top 20 of the Real Leaders 300 Impact Companies of 2023 and listed among 485 companies in Bloomberg’s 2023 Gender-Equality Index (GEI) for the first time.” →

Rooted in our Swedish values and a sustainable relationship with nature, we design with a clear purpose. We do everything we can to nurture our planet for future generations. We not only create taste experiences, take care of clothes and maintain a comfortable home. We create experiences shaped by how we live and by innovations that help people live better.

construction of the Electrolux distribution centre in Brisbane with the ceremonial turning of the first sod of soil.

Make sustainable eating the preferred choice

Make sustainable eating the preferred choice

Swedish thinking.

Swedish thinking.

Make homes free from harmful allergens and pollutants

Make homes free from harmful allergens and pollutants

Better Program

Better Program

Make clothes last twice as long with half the environmental impact

Make clothes last twice as long with half the environmental impact

Better living.

Better living.

Make our business circular and climate neutral

Make our business circular and climate neutral

100 actions to shape better and more sustainable living living around the world

100 actions to shape better and more sustainable living living around the world

Scan to learn more

Scan to learn more

Smeg continually strives to prioritise sustainable practices across materials, technologies, packaging and supply chain to ensure products deliver a strong sustainability message.

“Our global headquarters in Italy continues to make commitments to streamline efficiencies including the responsible manufacturing of appliances to extend product lifecycles, integrating steel and aluminium materials, using screws in lieu of glue and incorporating removable glass door panels on ovens to help with product disassembly for recycling,” Smeg product manager for MDA, Romina Becerra said.

“Simplifying product maintenance through spare parts availability and striving to improve energy efficiency throughout the product lifespan to reduce environmental impact are also key.

“Further to product development, Smeg Australia warehousing operations has moved to a purpose-built facility in Ingleburn, NSW. The new space achieves a 5.5-star NABERS energy rating, equipped with solar panels, rainwater tanks, LED lighting with intelligent controls, translucent sheeting to maximise natural light and electric vehicle charging stations. The warehouse employs cardboard and plastic balers and a machine that melts polystyrene for recycling and minimises general waste. These materials are subsequently handled by third-party recycling companies that collect and process them.”

Since 2020, BSH has achieved carbon neutrality at all locations worldwide as part of scope 1 and 2, meaning every BSH product is developed and manufactured without leaving a carbon footprint behind. The company continues to steadily reduce its carbon footprint, aiming for 100% green energy use by 2030 and making products with at least 50% recycled material by 2030.

Miele is committed to embracing sustainability in every step of the product journey with its appliances tested to withstand the equivalent of 20 years’ average usage and supply of certain parts beyond the standard warranty. In NSW, Miele is currently piloting initiatives like offering loan appliances to customers awaiting back-ordered parts and a refurbished program.

From a warehousing perspective, Miele has introduced Hybrid 4.0 tonne trucks to its vehicle fleet, reducing emissions by 25% compared to diesel transportation. By adopting hybrid fleets, Miele contributes to lowering overall demand for fossil fuels, while reducing operational costs.

Within its warehouse and service departments, Miele has transitioned to a completely paperless environment with a transition to electronic invoicing underway, estimated to save over 500,000 sheets of paper per year and up 40 trees.

In 2023, Hisense achieved carbon footprint certification for its PL1 Laser TV product from TÜV Rheinland, awarded in alignment with the ISO 14067:2018 standard, which specifies principles, requirements, and guidelines for the quantification and reporting of a product’s carbon footprint.

“In whitegoods, our Hisense Series 9 12kg front load washing machine delivers a 5-star energy and a 4-star water rating with an AI Wash feature that ensures only the necessary amount of water and detergent is used. The Hisense Series 9 10kg heat pump dryer boasts an industry leading 10-star energy rating,” Hisense head of marketing for ANZ, Gideon Lui said.

“The Hisense 417L Bottom Mount refrigerator was awarded an Innovation Excellence award from Canstar Blue in 2023, solidifying its status as Australia’s premier energy-rated refrigerator in the bottom mount category. As we look forward, we will be welcoming the introduction of our new EcoVision series of refrigeration products, reflecting our ongoing ambition to set new standards for sustainability and energy consumption.

“Hisense will also be incorporating low-global warming potential (GWP) refrigerant into its residential air conditioning units. Specifically, the Honeywell Solstice 454B refrigerant recognised for its cooling and heating performance. This aligns with global efforts to phase-out higher GWP refrigerants for heat pumps and air conditioners.”

ABOVE: Smeg’s purposebuilt warehouse facility at Ingleburn in Sydney’s south-west.

BELOW: Zip Water is undertaking a trial to shift its vehicle fleets from diesel to electric.

In 2023, Zip Water released its inaugural Sustainability Report to outline its strategy, initiatives and progress. The company also launched its Zip HydroTap Environmental Impact Calculator to help quantify the impact of using a HydroTap.

Reflecting its commitment to reducing single use plastics, Zip Water has partnered with Ocean Impact Organisation and sponsored the Plastic Pollution Solution Spotlight Award. The company was awarded a Gold sustainability rating from EcoVadis, placing the company in the 97th percentile of companies assessed.

Zip Water has purchased its first electric service utility van in Australia, as part of a trial before wider expansion. The number of hybrid or electric vehicles in the sales fleet has quadrupled since 2022.

From a packaging perspective, Zip Water has partnered with Better Packaging Co to make its poly bag packaging for spare parts more sustainable. The POLLAST!C range is one of the lowest-carbon sources of packaging commercially available, made from 100% recycled ocean bound plastic.

Olimpia Splendid is moving to a new Melbourne office with sustainability in mind. “We are setting up a modern vertical warehouse which offers better use of space by building upwards, thereby reducing the need for additional land, while minimising our environmental footprint. We’ve also converted to solar to help us power approximately 90% of our daily needs,” marketing and NPD manager, Pete Burnham said.

Anker released its first annual ESG report in June 2023, showing its investment in research and development with a particular focus on enhancing the sustainability of production processes with more recycled and reusable materials.

Anker has achieved 100% recyclable packaging materials since 2022 and 50% R-PET materials are now used in Anker charging accessory packaging. As of December 2023, Anker earned green certifications from organisations including Ecologo and TCO Certified for a total of 294 products across 561 SKUs. These products are recognised as sustainable options under Amazon’s Climate Pledge Friendly program.

The Anker SOLIX brand has launched several products including portable power stations and solar panels to help contribute to reduced carbon emissions.

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Switching from virgin plastics to post-consumer recycled plastics (PCR), Belkin projects a reduction of CO2-equivalent emissions of up to 67%. ”

Nespresso’s sustainability strategy is centred around three key pillars: care for the climate, equality and causes that matter most to the community.

“In the area of climate, priorities include raising awareness of our dedicated recycling program and initiatives such as our Recycling Rewards activation in boutiques, educating customers around our AAA Sustainable Quality program, and an ongoing partnership with Greening Australia to build resilience in the local landscape,” Nespresso managing director for Oceania, Stefan Vermeulen said.

“Advancing gender equality remains another key focus area. Earlier this year, I signed the UN Women and UN Global Compact’s Women Empowerment Principles on behalf of Nespresso Oceania and am proud to be working with Australian social enterprise, Two Good Co, to support women who have experienced homelessness, domestic violence and complex trauma.

“In March we leveraged an old Neapolitan coffee tradition, ‘Caffé Sospeso’, whereby customers order two coffees at a café, one for themselves and another for a stranger less fortunate. For every sleeve of Napoli coffee sold on International Women’s Day, we committed to donate the value of that sleeve to Two Good Co.

Over the next 12 months, Nespresso’s first community-driven charity fund, the Nespresso Care for You Fund, will deliver $75,000 across nine charities in ANZ, nominated and voted on by its community of coffee lovers.

Belkin’s current initiatives are aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. “In 2023, we partnered with the Carbon Trust’s Task Force on Climate Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD), a third-party entity to help measure Belkin’s climate performance to understand and manage climate-related risks and opportunities, and report in alignment with TCFD, turning compliance into competitive advantage,” Belkin head of global sustainability, Ernie Roberts said.

“In January 2023, we announced a product material refresh for our topselling mobile power products. Switching from virgin plastics to post-consumer recycled plastics (PCR), Belkin projects a reduction of CO2-equivalent emissions of up to 67% and are currently using 72 to 75% PCR in our products.

“Since this transition, we’ve sold over four million PCR products, equating to nearly 10% of total products sold in 2023, replaced 64 metric tonnes of virgin plastic with PCR materials, and transitioned over 200 products to incorporate PCR.” AR

Zip Water has partnered with Better Packaging Co to make its spare parts packaging more sustainable.

Join #ShedThatCarbon program for carbon footprint reduction tips and tricks www.beko.com/au-en/shedcarbon for healthy living on a healthy planet

2025 National Packaging Targets

The 2025 National Packaging Targets are designed to create a sustainable pathway for managing packaging. The four Targets are 100% of packaging being reusable, recyclable or compostable, 70% of plastic packaging being recycled or composted and 50% of average recycled content included in packaging and phase out of single-use plastic packaging.

The Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO) is charged with delivering these industry-led targets. The Electrolux global packaging team continues to seek ways to integrate more recycled content into packaging materials.

“Recognising the fragile nature of many appliances and potential for damage in transit, we need to assess all options while ensuring that the carbon footprint and quantity of waste generated in this process isn’t higher than with existing materials,” Kurt Hegvold said.

“We remain committed to exploring and testing the viability of alternate solutions while continuing to work within government regulatory requirements.”

Beko has been working with its factories and product teams to communicate and discuss the new Australian legislation frameworks and timelines.

“As Arçelik has been investing in sustainable packaging for more than two years, we are proud that Beko’s range for ANZ will be compliant and available for sale well ahead of the WA legislation deadline of July 2024 production,” product manager for ANZ, Murat Dora said.

“Beko ANZ will fully switch packaging for a range of products regardless of weight. Not taking the minimum requirement as our target, we will implement a full change for our laundry and dishwasher ranges.”

Beko has plans to start production of washing machines, tumble dryers, dishwasher and 60cm built-in ovens for ANZ imminently with rangehoods and cooktops to follow in Q2 2024.

According to Smeg, the size and weight of major appliances has significant influence and, at times, can limit the type of packaging used to avoid any potential damage during transportation.

“We are actively pursuing more sustainable packaging solutions through collaborations with universities, research centres and specialist suppliers at a global level,” Romina Becerra said.

“Modifying the packaging within small appliances has led to the reduction of polyethylene (PE) bags as well as the progressive replacement of nondisposable PE bags with bags in bio-based PE or those made of cellulose material.”

BSH continues to review and modify its packaging assortment in line with the National Packaging Targets. This includes the phase out of Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) from all floorcare products with cardboard packaging for these products containing approximately 80% recycled content, in addition to a phase-out of moulded EPS. BSH also continues to increase the recycled content of

packaging and reduce plastic packaging wherever possible.

Miele aims to increase the use of recycled plastics (recyclates) to between 5,000 and 7,500 tonnes per year by 2025, while saving material in components, surface treatment and packaging. Solutions are being developed at Miele’s Warendorf plant in Germany (Technology Centre Plastics). The upholstery and crevice nozzles, dusting brushes and special-purpose attachments for Miele vacuum cleaners from Miele Bielefeld are already successfully made from recyclates. Packaging is increasingly made from recycled materials.

As an APCO member, Hisense remains committed to seeking strategies that elevate packaging standards, minimise waste and spearhead positive change towards a circular economy for packaging in Australia.

“At Hisense, we require suppliers to meet a minimum 95% of recycled content for cardboard packaging. This has resulted in an overall average of 76.7% recycled content in new packaging, which significantly surpasses the 2025 National Packaging Target of 50%,” Gideon Lui said.

Zip Water is also an APCO member and fully committed to the 2025 targets. Packaging has been a focus for the company for several years and today, 95% of all packaging materials across the business are recyclable and/or reusable. The focus over the coming year is on the final 5% to eliminate unnecessary and

Nespresso coffee capsules are infinitely recyclable.

problem materials such as Styrofoam from packaging.

Olimpia Splendid continues to work with suppliers to further reduce packaging waste, as well as converting polystyrene to cardboard or other biodegradable material where possible. “Many heaters have converted to more sustainable cardboard packaging ahead of schedule. As an APCO member, we also draw inspiration and benchmark against other businesses,” Pete Burnham said.

Anker is working towards all of its product packaging being 100% recyclable across all of its brands by 2025, building on current use of 50% recycled PET in new charging product trays. The company is committed to increasing renewable and recycled materials with plans to introduce zero-plastic packaging.

Anker has streamlined packaging by removing plastic films, magnets, foil stamping, and UV processes, resulting in lighter and more efficient designs. Paper manuals have been phased out and Quick Start Guides optimised, cutting packaging materials by 60% and anticipating a 240 tonne reduction in paper use by 2024.

Nespresso’s actions feed into Nestlé’s objective of 100% recyclable or reusable packaging by 2025 and to reduce virgin plastics by one-third.

“Today, most of the packaging for our machines is recyclable and made of at least 80% recycled material. Our coffee capsules are made from aluminum which is infinitely recyclable and the used coffee grounds can be turned into compost for soil mix,” Stefan Vermeulen said.

“In recent years, we have invested in recycling trials such as the Curby kerbside collection pilot and Recycling Rewards incentivising recycling behaviour, to raise awareness of our current program and gather learnings to inform a national solution strategy. We are now working with other organisations towards an industry scheme.”

In line with the 2025 targets, Belkin is committed to reducing plastic in packaging for all new product launches. In 2023, the company achieved a 66% reduction in single use plastic packaging since its 2019 benchmark. “We were recognised in the ‘leading’ performance level by APCO in its 2023 Performance Summary Results,” Ernie Roberts said. AR

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Anker has streamlined packaging by removing plastic films, magnets, foil stamping, and UV processes, resulting in lighter and more efficient designs.

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Two in five consumers repair, not replace

The rising cost-of-living and consumers’ commitment to a more sustainable lifestyle has meant there is now no shame in buying secondhand items or repairing broken goods to extend their life, according to a Euromonitor International expert.

The Euromonitor International Voice of the Consumer: Sustainability Survey 2023 shows one-quarter (24%) of global consumers buy secondhand products to lead a more sustainable life, while 41% choose to repair broken items instead of buying new.

“The rising cost-of-living is pushing consumer behaviours towards sustainable practices as alternative cost-effective solutions,” Euromonitor International senior sustainability insights consultant, Jorge Zuniga said.

“Actions such as turning off heating, reducing food waste, opting for more fuelefficient mobility options, reducing appliance use, preparing meals at home, repairing items and buying secondhand products are not only helping them reduce costs and avoid unnecessary purchases but also allowing them to stay true to their values and adopt sustainable lifestyles.”

Zuniga said embracing recycling is particularly important for Gen Z and Millennials. More than 40% of younger consumers opt for secondhand shopping every few months, while more than 50% of 15- to 44-year-olds plan to purchase a secondhand item in the near future.

Repairing products is more important to older generations, many more of whom have become environmentally active. Some 40% of those aged 45 to 60+ intend to buy secondhand or previously owned products, compared to just 28% in 2021.

Environmental selling points for products

Electrolux is constantly looking for more efficient product energy and water consumption to reduce environmental impact while delivering savings on operating costs.

“Consumers are increasingly mindful of these factors when making their purchasing decisions while also looking for features that provide practical flexibility for how they use appliances,” Kurt Hegvold said.

Products such as the Electrolux 8kg UltimateCare 500 front load washing machine with UltraMix is an example of an appliance that provides versatility and savings. The Quick15 cycle has a shorter wash for a handful of garments and the UltraMix function helps reduce the likelihood of rewashing due to detergent stains.

“Beyond product alone, we’re proud to offer products built in an environment where our employees are treated ethically and respectfully. Many of our factories, including Adelaide, are Zero Waste to Landfill certified. There is also significant investment in adopting renewable energy sources and continually finding ways to reduce emissions.”

Across the Beko range of ovens, washing machines, washer dryers and tumble dryers, a substantial amount of recycled material is used.

“We use recycled fishnet and industrial thread waste in our built-in ovens, protecting marine life by turning redundant fishing nets into RecycledNet ovens. Parts of door décor and display cover are made up of 5% fishing net waste and 65% industrial thread in every built-in oven. In addition, the inner display cover and fan plastic parts are 50% industrial thread in every built-in oven,” Murat Dora said.

“We use recycled plastic bottles for the tub of each washing machine and washer dryer, accounting for up to 10% of tub material in every product. We repurpose waste plastics to make our RecycledDry tumble dryers, accounting for approximately 27%

of plastic parts in every tumble dryer. The recycled plastics are used in parts including water tank housing, back cover and chassis in all Beko dryers, excluding the vented dryer.”

In 2024, Beko will be upgrading to a range of 9-star energy rated heat pump dryers. Also in the laundry category, Beko will launch Aquatech technology in a 12kg Autodose washing machine.

“AquaTech is a fast, energy efficient, gentle program that washes clothes quickly and gently to keep them looking their best. The machine uses the power of water to minimise the damaging effects of drum movements and maximise time saving,” Dora said.

“We will continue to bring products to market that are aligned with our sustainability commitments such as Energy Spin and expanding heat pump technology into other categories like dishwashers.”

The investment put towards the development of Smeg’s newest-generation Galileo oven cavity offers the ability to combine traditional, steam and microwave cooking in one appliance (Omnichef).

“Using these three ways of cooking either singly, sequentially, or simultaneously, coupled with the optimisation and guided customisation of recipes, allows consumers to save up to 70% of preparation, cooking and clean up time without compromising on cooking results,” Romina Becerra said.

“The welding technologies used in the Galileo platform have made it possible to improve the seal to prevent heat loss, saving up to 10% on energy versus traditional models. There’s also the added option of in-oven barbeque cooking, healthy air fried cooking and authentic stone cooking, reducing the need for additional appliances.

“As well as saving time and increasing creative exploration, the Omnichef ovens also offer up to 25% energy saving when the three cooking technologies are combined, providing a reduction in overall household energy. →

LEFT: Bosch heat pump dryer with a 10-star energy rating.

MINIMISING OUR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

Smeg’s dedication to preserving and defending the environment stands as a pillar of our mission.

Enter Tritan Renew : a material composed of 50% certified recycled content, utilising cutting-edge molecular recycling to transform challengingto-process plastic waste into fresh, sustainable materials.

“Smeg’s Vitality System comprised of three products – a blast chiller, vacuum drawer, and combi-steam oven – offers optimum preservation of fresh or pre-cooked food by extending the life of food while maintaining original quality.

“Smeg blast chillers use rapid cooling technology to maintain the freshness, colour, aroma and consistency of food, improving shelf life by up to 70% and helping reduce food waste. In conjunction, the vacuum drawer guarantees a 99.9% vacuum and rapidly slows down the deterioration and oxidisation of food, while cooking the food in the combi-steam oven helps retain nutritional value and delivers exceptional flavours and aromas.”

BSH is committed to offering energy efficient products that use less water across all price ranges, with the aim of making sustainable choices more affordable. By offering more energy efficient programs, consumers can save energy to lower energy bills and reduce their environmental impact.

In 2015, BSH was the first home appliance manufacturer that opted to use the natural refrigerant propane in heat pump dryers. Bosch heat pump dryers are highly energy efficient thanks to ActiveAir technology, which reuses existing heat efficiently during the entire drying process.

Educating customers on the digitalisation of their kitchens is a major focus for Miele this year, as its appliances are designed to help customers make more sustainable choices within their homes.

The Miele app supports customers throughout the Miele product journey, as a single platform for solutions, tips and advice, as well as recommended features to reduce environmental footprint. These include Eco mode programs to reduce water and energy consumption, along with delay start functionality, allowing customers to take advantage of cost saving off-peak tariffs.

Throughout its product range, Hisense offers consumer-centric designs that focus on energy efficiency and sustainability.

“We empower customers to minimise their energy expenses and limit their ecological footprint. This is a key differentiator for us as we forge ahead as a leader in energy efficiency in the home appliance industry,” Gideon Lui said.

“The recognition from Canstar Blue for our 417L Bottom Mount refrigerator in 2023 has resonated well with our retail partners and consumers who are looking for a point of difference in this category.

“The Hisense ConnectLife app enables customers to monitor energy consumption and water usage directly from their smartphones, for increased awareness of their appliances’ environmental impact. In 2024, the integration of ConnectLife technology into our proprietary TV operating system VIDAA will allow customers to seamlessly monitor compatible Hisense products from their living room.”

The Zip Water HydroTap provides health and wellness benefits by reducing hazardous substances, impurities and potentially harmful contaminants while saving over two billion single use plastic bottles from landfill and oceans every year. The HydroTap produces up to 90% fewer carbon emissions than single use plastic bottles in a commercial setting and up to 33% fewer than a kettle.

As a manufacturer of seasonal products, Olimpia Splendid recognises the importance of including selling points to ensure the right products are used for the right purpose. “In addition to star ratings, our messaging includes information on recommended room size and features that reduce waste, Wi-Fi control and open window detection to name a few,” Pete Burnham said.

Anker has integrated bio-based materials into select charging cable casings, reducing petroleumderived plastics use. The latest Anker Nano line-up features 75% PCR plastics in exterior casings.

Select Anker Charging solutions, SOLIX portable power stations and soundcore audio products have achieved green certification.

Sustainability is central to Nespresso’s business from the precision consumption design of coffee machines to AAA Sustainable Quality Program, which launched in partnership with Rainforest Alliance in 2003 to ensure continued supply of high-quality coffee, protect the environment and support farming communities.

In 2023, Belkin announced a transition to PCR materials, incorporating 72 to 75% PCR into Belkin products. All Belkin PCR products are made with the same premium Belkin quality, verifying and authenticating PCR materials at the source. All Belkin products will have 100% plasticfree retail packaging. AR

ABOVE: The Smeg Vitality System comprises a blast chiller, vacuum drawer and combi-steam oven to extend food life.

Enabling more sustainable lifestyle behaviours

Electrolux recognises the significant role of consumer education to help create awareness of sustainability topics, positively influencing behavioural changes and informing ways to gain maximum benefit from appliance use.

“The Electrolux Group has created global messaging to raise consumer awareness of the environmental perils associated with the fast fashion industry where disposal of garments is traditionally high after little usage. The message was focused on encouraging consumers to adopt a behavioural change in the longevity they give to garments and how they care for them,” Kurt Hegvold said.

“Our local teams understand the need to provide consumers with knowledge – both pre- and postpurchase – to get the best possible outcome when using our products. Consumers consider information at various points of the product lifecycle and in a variety of ways.”

On March 1 2024, Beko ANZ launched the #ShedThatCarbon Program, inviting consumers to join the company’s quest to live a healthy life on a healthier planet by reducing their carbon footprint.

“Running a digital campaign across key channels including TikTok and YouTube from March until October, we are providing a source of tips and tricks to discover how you can easily reduce your individual carbon footprint across food, buying items, transport and at home,” Amanda Hart said.

Examples from the program include ‘replacing rice with pasta (wheat)’ to reduce CO2 emissions by 2.6kg per kg of rice being avoided and shedding up to 43 grams of CO2 per meal by cooking in a pan with a lid on, when possible, which increases efficiency by almost one-third.

Using the dishwasher instead of manually washing dishes can reduce CO2 emissions by 300kg per year, save 20 litres of water and 30 minutes of time for every load. Even when washed at 30°C, a load of laundry emits 0.6 kg

of CO2. For a more efficient wash and to avoid a rewash, it’s important not to underload or overload the drum.

Education is key to ensure consumers are making sustainable choices when using Smeg appliances. From an in-store perspective, Smeg is developing tools and messaging to help shoppers navigate product selections and understand the benefits of Smeg appliances.

“There’s also an increasing focus on ensuring the consumer is using the product in the best possible way,” Romina Becerra said.

“For example, efficient oven use can significantly reduce electricity consumption and associated costs. We’ve also implemented several solutions aimed at reducing food waste. In select products, special functions are designed to ensure improved preservation of food quality over time, allowing a reduction in waste.”

BSH empowers consumers with knowledge on how to use products in a more sustainable way in their homes. The company believes that each action taken, no matter how small, plays a part in addressing the global challenges of sustainability and environmental conservation.

Miele has always prioritised consumer education with knowledgeable and experienced staff and workshops at Miele Experience Centres (MEC), which allow consumers to understand water and energy saving technologies and functions available across Miele appliances.

MEC masterclasses are designed for customers to understand how to best use their appliances and ecofriendly features, as well as offering practical tips such as using leftover ingredients.

The Miele app is another key resource tool, providing product specific guidance and tips on energy-saving features. The app allows households to monitor and analyse usage patterns with best practices and suggested settings for reducing energy and water consumption.

The Hisense ConnectLife activation at CES 2024 in Las Vegas.

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The ConnectLife app from Hisense offers a comprehensive smart home solution, empowering customers to make informed decisions and enabling greater energy efficiency. ”

The ConnectLife app from Hisense offers a comprehensive smart home solution, empowering customers to make informed decisions and enabling greater energy efficiency.

“Through the app, customers can view energy and water consumption analytics to make more intuitive choices regarding product use,” Gideon Lui said.

“As unveiled at this year’s CES, we’re extending our range of ConnectLife-enabled home appliances in Australia over the next 12 months. This expansion aims to provide a more cohesive and integrated experience, allowing our customers to manage energy and water usage from their smartphones and compatible VIDAA TVs.”

Based on a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of the HydroTap, Zip Water developed the Impact Calculator to help its teams and consumers understand the impact of using a Zip HydroTap.

In an engaging, educational and easy to use format, users simply select where they will be using the HydroTap and provide information about water preference, how many people will use the product and for how many years. The calculator measures and displays the HydroTap’s environmental impact based on the number of plastic bottles saved and amount of plastic and carbon emissions avoided. It explains these benefits in familiar terms such as equivalent savings in kilometres driven in a car, hours flown in a plane and hours of LED lightbulbs used.

The Olimpia Splendid sales team conduct regular in-store training to help promote an understanding of the most sustainable products for the type of environment they are being used in.

Anker showcases eco-friendly products and processes, as well as its ongoing commitment to sustainability in online product listings and marketing materials.

Anker’s goal is to collaborate with customers to forge a more sustainable future, fostering healthier living spaces for all, and taking a leadership position in identifying intelligent and scalable solutions that mitigate the environmental impact of products and manufacturing processes.

Nespresso encourages consumers to make more sustainable choices in many ways from recycling messaging in advertising to sustainable product design.

“Key examples include promoting our range of reusable travel mugs, the precision consumption design of our coffee machines which minimises waste by only using the amount of water, energy and coffee required and the use of 35% and 54% recycled plastic in our Vertuo Pop and Vertuo Next machines, respectively. We also have a dedicated sustainability newsletter which helps educate and inform customers of relevant projects,” Stefan Vermeulen said.

Every year, Belkin publishes a Sustainability Report which provides full transparency of its progress towards environmental goals and social impact. AR

BELOW: The Miele app provides product guidance and tips on energy-saving features.

BOTTOM RIGHT: Anker

767 PowerHouse portable power station.

Supplier messages to retail partners

In 2024, Electrolux will continue to research ways to utilise renewable energy and reduce the impact of its global operations.

“Our retail partners can be assured that our commitment is shared throughout the Electrolux Group. ‘Shape Living for the Better’ isn’t simply a tagline, it’s our commitment to a better future for everyone. We will continue to be a leader in our commitment to the environment; not taking our ability to positively shape the future for employees, consumers and customers lightly,” Kurt Hegvold said.

Across manufacturing, logistics, packaging development, product development and more, Beko will continue to strive for more sustainable products and philosophies that can achieve better efficiencies in water, energy and materials, according to sales and marketing director, Jim Kalotheos.

“Peace of mind is essential for a healthy and happy life. That’s why Beko provides innovative appliances that truly provide peace of mind. Through this, we hope to enable customers to make sustainable decisions to achieve a better state of mind,” he said.

“We’ve come a long way so far on our sustainability journey, but we have no intention to rest on our laurels. At Beko and Arçelik, we will continue to strive for improvement and better outcomes to secure a net-zero future.”

Arçelik CEO, Hakan Bulgurlu said, “Arçelik has long been an advocate for sustainable development, setting an example in its industry. I am proud to share that our commitment to sustainability has never wavered, even during these turbulent times. On the contrary, we continued to work towards our net-zero target with even greater determination.

“Decarbonising our industry requires us to be more innovative across our operations, and we make a great effort to ensure that our

manufacturing phases are sustainable. We strive to replicate our on-site sustainability measures across our plants.

“To secure a net-zero future, businesses must adopt a holistic approach. In addition to our efforts to manufacture more sustainably, we are seeking ways to provide our consumers with technologies that promote resource efficiency. To this end, we place tremendous significance on sustainable product innovation.”

Understanding and reducing environmental impact across product lifecycles, from creation to use then disposal, is integral at Smeg with a focus on responsible and sustainable product development without compromising on design and technology innovation.

“Smeg Learning, our web-based training platform, remains a key resource that provides on-the-go training for retail staff in an easy-todigest format. With quick turnaround times from training creation to delivery, it has become an important element of the learning journey and can be continually updated with the latest training material,” Romina Becerra said.

In 2024, BSH is determined to build on existing initiatives and set new standards to drive its sustainability vision forward. This includes the recent extension for spare parts availability to 15 years and 10 years across major and small appliances respectively, increasing the recycled content within appliances and packaging, reducing energy used in the manufacturing process and sourcing components. BSH also remains committed to improving product energy and water efficiency.

Looking ahead into 2025, ‘buying better’ is an enduring theme at Miele as the company celebrates 125 years this year. Miele’s sustainability journey and message to retail partners will continue to focus on appliance design, manufacturing and logistics but also, knowledge, education and thought leadership.

ABOVE: Beko AquaTech washing machine.

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‘Buying better’ is an enduring theme at Miele as the company celebrates 125 years this year.

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Miele will further engage with local communities, continue to inspire internal teams and retail partners and offer evolving home appliances that help minimise environmental impact. Another focus is the digitalisation of Miele appliances and how smart home functions and the Miele app provide customer support and tools to reduce the environmental footprint within homes.

In 2024, Hisense will continue its sustainability pledge by empowering customers with products, features and innovations that make energy and waste consumption monitoring more convenient.

“Hisense will add to its existing portfolio of ConnectLife-enabled products across a range of home appliance categories to offer a truly integrated experience. This will provide Australians better visibility over water and energy usage through the ConnectLife app. Not only will this allow for more sustainable and environmentally conscious living, but it will also enable consumers to use their products more effectively,” Gideon Lui said.

Zip Water has been actively taking steps to reduce its environmental impact for a number of years, providing health, wellness and environmental benefits to consumers. The company’s journey to transform water to impact lives and protect the planet for all is both ambitious and challenging but will be done

through unparalleled expertise in sustainability, science and service engrained within the business.

Ensuring the best home comfort year-round and to all customers around the world is Olimpia Splendid’s goal. “Taking care of our home climate, while respecting that of the planet is the way we have chosen to achieve it,” Pete Burnham said.

Anker’s sustainability strategy is a long-term initiative with an emphasis on product packaging. The company is committed to significantly reducing plastic usage, with the ultimate objective of adopting a plastic-free packaging standard across all brands.

Aligning with this goal, Anker is seeking out and engaging in local ESG partnerships to amplify its sustainability contributions. The company will also continue to pursue environmental certifications for more Anker products, including carbon reduction.

This year, Nespresso celebrates its third anniversary as a B Corp. “I look forward to accelerating our actions in the areas of climate, equality and community, supporting the causes that matter most to our customers,” Stefan Vermeulen said.

Belkin is on a lifelong journey to find more responsible ways to build products. Belkin remains committed to its goal of 100% carbon neutrality in its offices and operations (scope 1 and 2 emissions) by 2025 while tackling product level emissions (scope 3). AR

AGL helps households electrify and save

AGL Energy has launched its Electrify Now platform helping households understand the potential benefits of electrifying their homes by providing personalised information for the most impactful upgrades.

Electrify Now helps customers understand their potential energy bill and carbon savings if their home switched to solar, battery, heat pump hot water, an electric vehicle (EV) and/ or induction cooktop.

This follows a successful pilot program, which saw more than 6,500 AGL customers receive estimated energy bill and carbon savings for installing solar and battery, further electrification products now available.

The enhanced platform also provides households the estimated payback period on their investment for solar, battery and heat pump hot water systems, as well as connecting users to AGL’s installation partners.

Results from the pilot program indicated that more than three in five (62%) surveyed customers were interested in electrification to help reduce their energy bills, 56% were looking to replace gas appliances and 42% wanted to reduce their carbon footprint.

Over three-quarters (77%) of those surveyed said they were interested in upgrading to an electric water system with 64% interested in induction cooktops.

According to AGL chief customer officer, Jo Egan, launching the Electrify Now platform demonstrates the company’s commitment to helping customers decarbonise.

“Whether or not you are a customer with AGL, households can access personalised information about the potential benefits of an electric home,” Egan said.

For eligible users of the platform with a smart meter, AGL is also the first Australian energy retailer to use Consumer Data Right (CDR) electricity data to estimate potential energy bill and carbon savings from upgrading to home electrification products.

Better Living Program

From our beginning in Sweden in 1919, we have strived to make home life a better experience for everyone – richer and more effortless whatever the task. Taking great design solutions to support the everyday home life of our consumers, allowing them to do more with their loved ones and in a sustainable manner.

This is why we’re committed to implementing 100 actions over 11 years across four categories: Better Eating, Better Garment Care, Better Home Environment and Better Company.