Against the backdrop of an increasing focus on sustainability and the environment, Prysmian is called upon to respond to global challenges linked to pollution and climate change. Increasingly stringent regulations, high social expectations and changes in environmental policies require ongoing efforts to reduce emissions and pollution during the manufacturing process, product use and installation. The adoption of more sustainable practices and technological innovation enable Prysmian to reduce the environmental impact of its products and processes, thus improving its competitiveness in the market. In addition, a strong commitment to sustainability makes it possible to attract new investors, partners and customers who are increasingly sensitive to environmental issues, strengthening the brand's reputation.
Regarding the topic relating to ESRS E2, "Pollution", the dual materiality analysis conducted resulted in the identification of the material impacts described in detail below. The impact associated with upstream raw material extraction activities in the Group's supply chain, both in terms of emissions to air and to water, was considered material. With regard to Prysmian's own operations, atmospheric emissions relating to cable manufacturing and installation (using owned vessels) activities, for example, of nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur oxides (SOx) and other significant pollutants, are mainly attributable to activities linked to natural gas combustion (for heating or manufacturing processes) and the production of optical fiber.
In the course of 2024, a questionnaire was distributed at all Group plants in order to map the presence of SOx and NOx emissions and any monitoring activities in place within the Group's operating units. Currently, the project to assess the significance of NOx and SOx emissions in the group's operating units, and the associated quantification, does not entail significant operational expenditure (OpEx) and/or capital expenditure (CapEx).
In line with the HSEE Policy’s commitment to preventing pollution and minimizing health risks, Prysmian also monitors Volatile Organic Compound emissions from certain production processes and maintenance at Group level. Significant reductions in these emissions have already been achieved in the past by gradually introducing new methods and/or products, particularly for cable degreasing, cleaning and stamping operations. In any case, Prysmian continues to monitor this indicator, estimating – as a precaution – that the total amount of VOCs emitted into the atmosphere is equal to the total consumption of substances containing organic solvents. In 2024, the total amount of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) emitted into the atmosphere was approximately 537 tons.
In 2024, the Group did not receive any significant penalties (monetary or otherwise) for regulatory non-compliance in the environmental field. [For monetary penalties, significant means fines above Euro 10,000.], with one minor exception (Marion, US, 12.000 EUR).