Albany International Releases Comprehensive 2024 Sustainability Report, Showcasing Progress and Commitment to a Sustainable Future
Albany International Corp. a global leader in engineered components and advanced materials, has announced the release of its 2024 Sustainability Report. This annual publication highlights the company’s ongoing dedication to sustainability, innovation, and responsible business practices that drive long-term value for stakeholders.
Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation
The 2024 report underscores Albany International’s continuous efforts to integrate sustainable practices into its core operations, demonstrating a strong commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. The company believes that sustainability is not only a responsibility but also a driver of innovation, resilience, and business success.
“There are several highlights we are particularly proud of this year,” stated Gunnar Kleveland, President and CEO of Albany International Corp. “Our participation in World Engineering Day for Sustainable Development stands out as a key milestone, showcasing our rich history of innovation and the ways in which it enhances sustainability and performance for our customers. Additionally, we have made significant strides in operational sustainability and community engagement, which we believe will contribute to a more sustainable and prosperous future for all our stakeholders.”
Albany International’s sustainability initiatives are rooted in a vision that aligns environmental responsibility with business growth. By investing in cleaner energy, sustainable manufacturing, and social responsibility, the company is setting new industry standards and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
Reducing Environmental Impact through Ambitious Goals
One of the report’s central themes is Albany International’s commitment to reducing its environmental impact by setting and achieving ambitious sustainability goals. The company has been proactive in mitigating its carbon footprint and implementing energy-efficient solutions across its global operations.
Anna Yates, leader of Sustainability and Environmental, Health & Safety (EHS) at Albany International, emphasized the company’s progress in this area: “Sustainability is one of our core values, not just because it is important for our customers, employees, and other stakeholders, but because it is a key driver of innovation and business value. Through setting ambitious targets and making concrete progress, such as participating in a U.S. virtual power purchase agreement to offset approximately 25% of our emissions, we are holding ourselves to the highest standards. We are confident that our innovative approach will continue to drive positive change.”
Key environmental initiatives outlined in the report include:
- Renewable Energy Initiatives: Participation in virtual power purchase agreements to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
- Carbon Emission Reductions: Implementation of energy-efficient manufacturing processes to lower greenhouse gas emissions.
- Sustainable Material Use: Increased focus on recycled and responsibly sourced raw materials to enhance sustainability in production.
- Water and Waste Management: Adoption of advanced water conservation and waste reduction strategies to minimize environmental impact.
Community Engagement and Social Responsibility
Beyond environmental initiatives, Albany International is deeply committed to making a positive impact in the communities where it operates. The company actively supports local projects, education, workforce development, and employee-driven volunteer programs to foster long-term social sustainability.
“As a company, we understand that our responsibility extends beyond our operations,” said Kleveland. “We strive to be a positive force in the communities where we live and work. From educational outreach programs that inspire the next generation of engineers to partnerships with local organizations focused on sustainability, we are dedicated to making a difference.”
Highlights of Albany International’s community engagement initiatives include:
- Educational Partnerships: Collaborations with schools and universities to promote STEM education and careers in engineering and manufacturing.
- Employee Volunteering Programs: Encouragement and support for employees to engage in community service projects and environmental conservation efforts.
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI): Initiatives to foster a more inclusive and equitable workplace, promoting diversity in leadership and recruitment.
- Health and Safety Improvements: Ongoing efforts to enhance workplace safety and employee well-being across all facilities.
Transparency, Accountability, and Open Communication
Albany International firmly believes that transparency and accountability are fundamental to achieving long-term sustainability. The 2024 Sustainability Report reflects this commitment by openly sharing both successes and areas for improvement.
“We believe that transparency fosters trust, and that trust drives meaningful progress,” said Yates. “By sharing our achievements as well as our opportunities for improvement, we invite feedback and collaboration that will help us refine and advance our sustainability efforts.”
The report outlines:
- Performance Metrics: Key performance indicators measuring environmental and social impact.
- Challenges and Opportunities: Honest assessments of areas where further improvement is needed.
- Future Goals: Ambitious targets set for the coming years to continue progressing toward a more sustainable future.
A Sustainable Future
Albany International remains committed to pushing the boundaries of sustainability and innovation in the years ahead. By leveraging technology, research, and strategic partnerships, the company aims to achieve even greater milestones in environmental and social responsibility.
“We recognize that sustainability is a continuous journey,” concluded Kleveland. “We are dedicated to improving every aspect of our business, from reducing emissions and increasing efficiency to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce. Our commitment to sustainability is stronger than ever, and we look forward to making an even greater impact in the future.”
Accessing the Report
The full 2024 Sustainability Report is available for viewing and download at www.albint.com/sustainability. Albany International encourages stakeholders, customers, investors, and community members to review the report and engage in discussions about sustainability efforts and opportunities for collaboration.
Albany International Corp. is a globally recognized developer and manufacturer of engineered components, utilizing advanced materials processing and automation capabilities to serve two primary markets:
- Machine Clothing: The world’s leading producer of custom-designed, consumable belts essential for the manufacture of paper, paperboard, tissue and towel, pulp, non-wovens, and various other industrial applications.
- Albany Engineered Composites: A growing designer and manufacturer of advanced materials-based engineered components for demanding aerospace applications, supporting both commercial and military platforms.
Headquartered in Rochester, New Hampshire, Albany International operates 30 facilities in 13 countries and employs approximately 5,400 people worldwide. The company is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol AIN.
