AkzoNobel Cuts Operational Carbon Emissions 50% Four Years Early, Shifts to Renewable Power and Heat Pumps

AkzoNobel has cut its Scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions by 50% against a 2018 baseline, reaching its 2030 target four years early. The paints and coatings manufacturer now runs on 100% renewable electricity across 92 sites in North America, Latin America, and Europe, covering 69% of its manufacturing locations. A key project was a 1.7 million euro investment at its Pilawa, Poland site, replacing gas boilers with heat pumps and installing 3,551 solar panels. The company acknowledges that Scope 3 emissions, which cover the full value chain, remain the bigger challenge. AkzoNobel has been working with suppliers and customers on circular economy and solvent reduction efforts, and recently launched an energy calculator for its powder coatings customers to help them cut energy use and costs. The milestone comes as AkzoNobel prepares to merge with Axalta Coating Systems in a deal expected to close in late 2026 or early 2027.