FOREWORD BY THE CEO
We are pleased to present the sustainability report for 2024. Since 2022, Norske Backer has been systematically working on sustainability. We have established an internal organization that promotes and follows up on this work.
Our owners, Nibe Industrier, are also very committed to sustainability and place great emphasis on us, as a subsidiary, doing what we can to limit our and our customers’ impact on the climate, environment, and people, and to promote social work.
For us, this means minimizing our footprint in terms of consumption of resources and emissions to the external environment. But also increasing our handprint by offering products that use renewable energy for their operation. Additionally, we aim to be a good workplace with competitive conditions and transparent relationships within the organization. We are also aware of our responsibility regarding procurement and the working conditions that our suppliers provide for their employees. And we are committed to supporting local and national organizations that promote social arenas such as sports teams and charitable organizations.
In recent years, we have, among other things, installed electric car chargers for our employees, replaced old machines and equipment with new ones that have lower energy consumption, installed solar panels on the roof, and marketed our products that will help our customers transition from fossil to renewable energy in their production. We call this Backer Switch.
To demonstrate our commitment, we have pledged through SBTi to cut our CO2 emissions in scope 1 and 2 by 40% by 2030.
Tom Owe Mikalsen CEO at Norske Backer
PURPOSE OF THE REPORT
Our sustainability report aims to provide transparency to our stakeholders regarding our efforts, methodologies, and the results we achieve in our sustainability work. By being open about our activities, we hope to foster trust and demonstrate our commitment to sustainable practices.
At Norske Backer, we believe in the importance of sharing our sustainability journey with our stakeholders. We provide insights into the various initiatives we are undertaking, ranging from energy efficiency projects to waste reduction programs. By showcasing our methodologies, we aim to highlight the thoughtful and strategic approaches we employ to address environmental challenges.
Our sustainability practices are grounded in research and collaboration with industry experts. We continuously seek to improve our processes by adopting innovative technologies and engaging in best practices. For instance, we utilize advanced recycling methods to minimize waste and prioritize the use of renewable energy sources to reduce our carbon footprint.
We believe that sustainability is a collective effort. By involving our local communities in our initiatives, we aim to raise awareness and inspire action.
Collaborating with other organizations allows us to amplify our impact. We work closely with Klosser, 7 Sterke and other local businesses to develop and implement sustainability projects. These partnerships are essential in driving forward our mission of sustainable development.
Sustainable development is not just a moral imperative; it is also a strategic advantage. By integrating sustainability into our business model, we enhance our resilience and
adaptability in a rapidly changing world. Our sustainability report aims to underscore the critical role that sustainable practices play in ensuring long-term success and viability for businesses.
In conclusion, our sustainability report aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Norwegian Bakker’s efforts to promote sustainable development. Through transparency, engagement, and collaboration, we strive to make a meaningful difference and inspire others to join us in our commitment to sustainability.
Norske Backer is dedicated to delivering high-quality products and solutions that are designed to last. Our focus on quality ensures that our offerings meet the highest standards, providing reliable and durable performance for our customers. By prioritizing longevity, we aim to create products that not only fulfill immediate needs but also stand the test of time, contributing to sustainable practices and long-term satisfaction.
ABOUT NORSKE BACKER
Norske Backer is located in specially built production facilities at the SIVA Industrial Area in Kongsvinger. Here, we have all our production and operations. Our expertise lies in customized electric heating solutions tailored to the needs of our customers. We have general and high competence in the production of electric heating elements and are also certified for explosion-proof products for industries such as oil and gas.
The relationship with most customers is long-term, and we are often involved in their development work. We have a strong focus on offering high-quality, long-lasting customized solutions optimized to meet the heating needs of our customers. We also produce a range of typical standard products for industries such as HVAC and ventilation.
Currently, Norske Backer has 55 employees distributed across the mechanical department, production, sales, and administration. We also have a sales department in Moss.
Norske Backer is part of the Backer group, which has its headquarters in Sösdala, Sweden. The Backer group is owned by Nibe Elements, which is part of the Nibe Industrier group.
Norske Backer is working on several important projects that focus on sustainability and adapting heating solutions. Here are some of the most significant projects:
Norske Backer has developed Backer Switch, a service that helps customers transition from heating solutions based on fossil energy sources to electric heating solutions. This project involves site inspections, calculations, offers, and the potential production of customized components.
OUR STORY
Christian Backer from the small town of Flisa is the originator of the revolutionary Backer process. As a result of this process, the world received a new heating solution that was easy to adapt to various needs in both households and industries – the so-called Backer element.
The fundamental and unique idea was named the Backer process. The basic patent dates back to 1921 and has continuously been complemented and refined with several follow-up patents. Christian Backer’s goal was to develop a product that could be used as a heating element in an electric stove. His idea was that the electric stove should be an alternative to gas and wood stoves.
History shows that the heating element could be used for much more than just the electric stove, and this is what Norske Backer has specialized in.
HIGHLIGHTS OF 2024
WE BOUGHT A NEW, USED WATER JET CUTTER!
And our old and tired 2011 model Waterjet water jet cutter, that has 9000 hours of use in the backpack, are retiring.
We have decided to invest in a new 2023-model water jet cutter of the same producer as our old one and, compared with the 2011-model, has only run 278 hours. Our old machine was on its last legs, somewhat slow going and needed a lot of services. We bought our new water jet cutter from a bankruptcy estate in Sandefjord.
SCIENCE BASED TARGETS INITIATIVE HAS APPROVED OUR NEAR-TERM SCIENCE-BASED EMISSIONS REDUCTION TARGET!
After a while with a few hick-ups we are proud to finally announce that we in June 2023 committed to Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), and had our targets approved short time after. We committed as a SME (small and medium enterprises) to reduce our emissions in scope 1 and 2 with 40% within 2030. We would like to make a good example for other companies who also want to reduce their emissions.
SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESSES AND INITIATIVES: COMMITMENT TO THE COMMUNITY’S BEST INTERESTS
As a business rooted in the local community, we have always regarded it as both a duty and an honor to give back to the community that supports us. Therefore, it is with great pleasure and commitment that we support and collaborate with the youth of RGB UB on an essential awareness campaign aimed at preventing and reducing the spread of intimate images among young people.
Read the article
PASSING THE BATON: ISO 9001 AND 14001 IN FOCUS AS NEW LEADERS TAKE OVER
Norske Backer has long been committed to quality and the environment; a dedication reflected in our certifications. As early as 1995, we were certified according to ISO 9001, and in 2015, we followed up with certification under ISO 14001These ISO standards form the foundation of our management systems for quality and environmental sustainability, ensuring that we deliver high-quality products and services while also considering our environmental impact.
Read the article
SUSTAINABILITY AT NORSKE BACKER
At Norske Backer, sustainability is an integral part of our business. We are dedicated to taking responsibility for the environment and the community around us, and we continuously work to improve our sustainability efforts.
We have developed a comprehensive five-year sustainability strategy that spans from 2023 to 2028. This strategy includes both large and small goals, with some initiatives being entirely new projects, while others are improvements to existing operations. We have also developed a detailed measurement plan where responsibilities are distributed among various employees, and the measures are categorized into energy use, materials, suppliers, climate, and people and society.
Since the beginning of the strategy, we implemented several important sustainability measures:
• Replaced paper cups with ceramic and metal cups.
• Switched from regular copy paper to Paperwise, which has up to 47% less environmental impact than regular paper.
• Conducted basic sustainability courses for all employees.
• Established a sustainability council with representatives from each department.
• Signed the greenwashing pledge.
• Installed electric vehicle chargers and solar panels.
• Set up recycling stations in production and the mechanical department.
How We Will Achieve Our Goals
We have set ambitious goals for the future, including reducing our CO2 emissions by 40% by 2030 through the Science Based Target initiative. We plan to install solar panels on the roof that will cover a significant portion of our energy needs. Additionally, we are working to maximize material usage to avoid unnecessary waste.
Concrete
Numbers
and Statistics
• In 2023, we reduced our CO2 emissions by 28% in scope 1 and 2.
• We have installed solar panels that have significantly reduced our electricity consumption.
• We have reduced our general waste by 40% from 2023 to 2024.
ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY
We hope and believe that our measures and improvements will help achieve some of the UN Sustainable Development Goals and perhaps inspire others to develop their own sustainability goals.
A SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT
At Norske Backer, we are dedicated to taking responsibility for the environment and the community around us. We have implemented several concrete measures to reduce our climate footprint and contribute to a sustainable future.
We have carried out several important climate measures that have had a significant impact on our business:
Solar Panels: We have invested in solar panels that will cover a large part of our energy needs. This measure helps reduce our electricity consumption and increase the use of renewable energy.
Reduction of Paper Usage: In addition to having reduced our use of paper, we have switched from regular copy paper to Paperwise, which has up to 47% less environmental impact than regular paper, in addition to having reduced our use of paper.
Electricity as an Energy Source: Our products are based on electricity rather than fossil fuels, which reduces our climate footprint.
Recycling and Reuse: We have an increased focus on recycling and reuse of waste.
Electric Vehicle Chargers: We have installed electric vehicle chargers to support the use of electric vehicles.
Contribution to the UN Sustainable Development Goals
Our measures contribute to several of the UN Sustainable Development Goals:
Goal 9 - Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure: We promote sustainable industry and innovation through our investments in solar panels and electricity as an energy source, and with Backer Switch.
Goal 12 - Responsible Consumption and Production: We reduce our climate footprint by using more sustainable materials like Paperwise and increasing recycling and reuse.
Goal 13 - Climate Action: Our measures to reduce CO2 emissions and increase the use of renewable energy contribute to combating climate change.
Goal 17 - Partnerships for the Goals: We collaborate with various partners and organizations to achieve our sustainability goals, including the Science Based Target initiative.
BACKER SWITCH
At Norske Backer, we are committed to promoting sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions. Our Backer Switch service is designed to make the transition from fossil fuels to electric heating as seamless and cost-effective as possible. By focusing on replacing only the necessary components, such as gas burners, we help our customers save on the high costs associated with a complete system overhaul. This not only makes the transition more affordable but also minimizes waste, contributing to a more sustainable future.
In 2024, we introduced a climate calculator to further support our customers in their sustainability efforts. This innovative tool enables users to independently calculate the potential reduction in their CO2 emissions when they switch from fossil to electric heating solutions. By providing this valuable information, we empower our customers to make informed decisions that benefit both their finances and the environment. Our goal is to facilitate a smoother transition to greener energy solutions and to play a part in reducing the overall carbon footprint.
Try our calculator here!
SCIENCE BASED TARGET INITIATIVE
At Norske Backer, we are proud to have committed to the Science Based Target initiative (SBTi), which is a collaboration between CDP, United Nations Global Compact, World Resources Institute, and World Wide Fund for Nature. SBTi shows businesses and organizations how much and how quickly emissions must be reduced to avoid the worst climate change impacts. An important foundation for SBTi is that in 2015, in connection with the Paris Agreement, the world’s governments committed to taking measures to limit warming to 1.5 degrees above pre-industrial levels.
The Science Based Target initiative develops standards, tools, and guidance that enable companies to set targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in line with what is necessary to keep global warming below catastrophic levels and achieve net-zero by 2050. SBTi provides companies with clarity and confidence that their short-term and long-term decarbonization plans are in line with climate science.
Norske Backer’s Commitment
In June 2023, we committed to the Science Based Target initiative, where we pledged to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions by at least 40% by 2030, with 2022 as our baseline year.
The Science Based Target initiative divides greenhouse gas emissions into three main categories, known as scope 1, 2, and 3:
Scope 1 – Direct Emissions: This covers emissions associated with something the business owns itself and are the direct emissions of a business.
Scope 2 – Indirect Emissions from Electricity Consumption: Scope 2 covers CO2 emissions related to the business’s electricity consumption and district heating consumption.
Scope 3 – Other Indirect Emissions: This category covers all the business’s indirect emissions, excluding electricity consumption covered by scope 2. This includes emissions related to goods and services the business buys and sells.
OUR CO2 EMISSIONS
As an SME committed to the Science Based Target initiative, we are obligated to report and work specifically on Scope 1 and 2 emissions, while also monitoring and doing what we can to reduce our emissions in Scope 3.
For this report, we have therefore chosen to include Scope 1 and 2, as we know we have control over these emissions.
In 2024, we had slightly higher emissions than we did in 2023, but we still achieved a reduction from our base year, which was 2022.
Our emissions in Scope 1 and 2 in 2024 were as follows:
GROWTH AND CO2 EMISSION REDUCTION
As every other company, we have goals to grow bigger every year.
To make sure we have actual ruductions in our company, we align our numbers with turnover.
We both do trading for other companies in the Backer Group, and produce and sell products our selves. For this alignment we have separated trading from the turnover, and are using our numbers for self produced sales.
SOCIAL SUSTAINABILITY
We at Norske Backer are committed to taking care of the people and the community around us, and have therefore chosen to increase our focus on social sustainability. In this context, we have selected three of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals to work further with.
SOCIAL SUSTAINABILITY AT NORSKE BACKER
Norske Backer has made significant progress in social sustainability over the past few years, with a strong focus on caring for both people and the environment. The company has implemented a range of measures to promote social sustainability, including sponsorships to local organizations and a strong emphasis on equality and diversity in the workplace. Norske Backer actively works to increase the proportion of women in the industry and ensure a good working environment and good working conditions for all employees. This has resulted in employees having an average tenure of 17.5 years with the company.
Norske Backer is subject to the Norwegian Transparency Act, effective from July 1, 2022, which requires companies to conduct due diligence assessments to address impacts on human rights and working conditions. The company has a comprehensive ”Code of Conduct” that all suppliers must sign, ensuring they meet high ethical standards. Norske Backer also follows strict guidelines on trading countries and has found no discrepancies in their investigations. Through its parent company, NIBE Industrier, Norske Backer has access to extensive guidelines and support.
Norske Backer is committed to continuing its work on social sustainability and contributing to a greener and better future for future generations.
Contribution to the UN Sustainable Development Goals
Our measures contribute to several of the UN Sustainable Development Goals:
Goal 5 - Gender Equality: Achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls by eliminating discrimination and violence, and ensuring equal opportunities for leadership.
Goal 8 - Decent Work and Economic Growth: Promoting sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full employment, and decent work for all by improving working conditions and reducing unemployment.
Goal 10 - Reduced Inequality: Reducing inequality within and among countries by ensuring equal opportunities and eliminating discriminatory laws, policies, and practices, and promoting inclusion of all, regardless of age, gender, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion, or economic status.
WOMEN IN THE INDUSTRY
In recent years, Norske Backer has focused on increasing the proportion of women in the industry. We firmly believe that every sector benefits from gender balance within companies. We are convinced that this balance not only fosters a more inclusive and equitable work environment but also drives positive ripple effects throughout the industry.
Gender diversity brings a variety of perspectives and experiences to the table, which we believe is crucial for fostering innovation and creativity. By ensuring that women have equal opportunities to contribute and lead, we are tapping into a broader talent pool and encouraging a culture of collaboration and fresh ideas. This approach not only enhances our problem-solving capabilities but also strengthens our ability to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing market.
At Norske Backer, we are committed to creating a workplace where everyone, regardless of gender, feels valued and empowered to reach their full potential. We believe that by promoting gender balance, we are not only doing what is right but also what is smart for the future of our industry.
198400 Antallansatte i industrie n
48112 A ntallkvinner i industrie n
According to Statistics Norway, approximately 1 in 4 industrial employees are women. While we view this as a promising figure, we believe there is still significant room for improvement. At Norske Backer, we are committed to increasing this number and aim for a more balanced gender representation in the industry.
We recognize that achieving gender balance is not only a matter of fairness but also a strategic advantage. Diverse teams bring a variety of perspectives and ideas, which can lead to more innovative solutions and better decision-making.
We believe that by fostering a supportive and equitable workplace, we can inspire more women to pursue careers in the industrial sector and contribute to its growth and success.
Our commitment to gender equality is part of our broader sustainability strategy, which aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. By working towards a more balanced and inclusive workforce, we are not only enhancing our own company but also contributing to the overall progress of the industry and society as a whole.
WE CELEBRATE OUR SKILLED AND TALENTED LADIES!
GENDER DISTRIBUTION AT NORSKE BACKER
At Norske Backer, we are committed to actively increasing the proportion of women in our workforce. Currently, we have a higher percentage of men employed, and we recognize the importance of addressing this imbalance. As previously mentioned, we firmly believe that a balanced gender ratio fosters greater creativity and innovation within our organization.
As we transitioned into 2025, our gender distribution showed a slight increase in the proportion of women compared to previous years. This positive change reflects our ongoing efforts and dedication to creating a more inclusive and diverse workplace. We understand that achieving gender balance is not only beneficial for our company culture but also enhances our overall performance and ability to innovate.
We continue to implement various initiatives and strategies aimed at attracting and retaining talented women. Our goal is to build a workforce that reflects the diversity of our society and leverages the unique perspectives and skills that both men and women bring to the table.
By striving for gender balance, we aim to create a dynamic and innovative workplace where everyone can thrive and contribute to our collective success.
SPONSORSHIP
Norske Backer has a long-standing commitment to giving back to the community. Over the years, we have proudly sponsored a diverse range of organizations, reflecting our belief in the importance of supporting various activities that benefit children, youth, and adults alike.
In 2025, our sponsorship efforts have been particularly varied to ensure that our contributions reach different segments of the community. We have supported a youth enterprise, which provides young people with valuable entrepreneurial experience and skills. Additionally, we have sponsored KIL Ice Hockey, fostering the development of young athletes and promoting physical activity and teamwork.
Our support extends to Top Football and Football, where we aim to encourage sportsmanship and healthy competition among players of all ages. We also take pride in sponsoring the Glåmdal Chamber Choir, which enriches the cultural landscape of our community through music and performance.
These are just a few examples of the many organizations we have supported this year. Our goal is to create a positive impact across various fields, ensuring that our contributions help nurture talent, promote well-being, and enhance the quality of life for everyone involved.
By maintaining a diverse sponsorship portfolio, we strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and the community as a whole. We believe that our efforts not only support immediate needs but also contribute to the long-term growth and development of the society we are proud to be a part of.
Over the past four years, excluding the pandemic year, we have sponsored businesses with more than 350,000 kroner. Additionally, we have focused on supporting local organizations, as we aim to strengthen our community and ensure that Kongsvinger continues to offer excellent activities and opportunities.
THE NORWEGIAN TRANSPARENCY ACT
The Norwegian Transparency Act, which came into force in July 2022, mandates that larger enterprises conduct due diligence to identify and address adverse impacts on human rights and decent working conditions within their operations, supply chains, and business relationships. This law aims to promote corporate responsibility and transparency, ensuring that companies are accountable for their impact on society and the environment. Enterprises are required to be transparent about their efforts and provide information to the public upon request.
At Norske Backer, we have taken proactive steps to comply with this legislation. We have implemented a thorough due diligence process, which includes sending out questionnaires to our suppliers to identify potential risks and impacts. Our Business Code for Suppliers, which all suppliers are required to sign, outlines our expectations and values, ensuring that they align with the principles of the Norwegian Transparency Act. This code also includes clear requirements for suppliers to uphold fundamental human rights and decent working conditions.
Furthermore, we have established procedures for dealing with suppliers who do not meet our standards. If a supplier does not sign and commit to our Business Code for Suppliers, we conduct a risk assessment. Should this assessment not yield a positive outcome, we impose additional requirements on the supplier. If these requirements are still not met, we terminate the contract. All new suppliers are required to sign our Business Code for Suppliers when entering into an agreement.
By adhering to these standards, we aim to foster a responsible and ethical supply chain, contributing to the overall goal of the Norwegian Transparency Act to protect human rights and promote decent working conditions.
Read our statements here (Norwegian only)
NORSKE BACKER AS AND NIBE GROUP
Business Code for Suppliers
Norske Backer AS is obliged by the Norwegian Transparency act / Åpenhetsloven to secure high ethical standards with our suppliers and sub suppliers. And as a part of the NIBE GROUP, we want to collaborate with suppliers that contribute to our sustainability profile.
This will improve our joint business. Suppliers and contractors play a critical role for our brand building and our high quality standards. Therefore, we expect that our suppliers and subcontractors must demonstrate the same high ethical standards as ours. We also expect our suppliers and contractors to require their suppliers and-contractors to follow similar ethical standards as described in this document.
Are your company obliged by the Norwegian or EU Transparency Act?
□ Yes
□ No
Requirements
Compliance with local laws and UN Global Compact (www.unglobalcompact.org)
Support and Respect of Human Rights
• No human rights abuse.
Forced and Compulsory Labor are Prohibited
• All work must be voluntary and all workers must be free to leave upon reasonable notice.
• Employees should not be forced to deposit money, passports, education certificates or similar documentation as a condition for employment.
Child Labor is Prohibited
• No person younger than the age for completing compulsory education or younger than 15 may be employed.
• The minimum age for hazardous work is 18 years.
Discrimination of All Kind is Prohibited
• Equal opportunities regardless of race, religion, gender, age, nationality, disability, personal relationship, union membership and/or political opinion.
Employees’ Health and Safety a Priority at All Times
• Safe and healthy working environment.
• Preventive work and training to avoid injuries and illness caused by unsafe working conditions.
Freedom of Association and the Right to Collective Bargaining
A Precautionary Attitude to Environmental Issues
• Prioritize resource and energy efficiency.
• Minimize waste, maximize recycling.
• Prevent pollution to land, air and water.
Anti-Corruption
• All forms of corruption, including extortion and bribery, are prohibited.
• Commitment to fair competition.
Compliance and Follow up
As a supplier to Norske Backer AS as part of NIBE, you are required to take immediate contact if you have questions about how to implement this Business Code.
Suppliers can be asked to provide information as required by Norske Backer and NIBE regarding the standards in the Business Code. Based on this information, the supplier will be evaluated. Norske Backer and NIBE encourages the suppliers to evaluate their sub-suppliers.
Undersigned has approved and agrees to follow the above listed standards
Date: ________________________________________
Name: _________________________________
Title: __________________________________
Company: ______________________________
Jostein Svendheimsveg 8-10
2012 Kongsvinger
Norway
Contact:
Oda Beate Lerheim
Sustainability Officer
oda.lerheim@norskebacker.no
