Material topics

The key topics underlying Rieter’s sustainability strategy are based on a survey of the most important stakeholder groups conducted in 2023. The following topics are material for Rieter: climate change, resource efficiency and circular economy, working conditions and social engagement as well as corporate governance.

In 2023, Rieter conducted a materiality survey among the company’s most important stakeholder groups. For this purpose, Rieter developed 26 relevant questions on the topics of climate change, pollution, water, biodiversity, circular economy, employees, workers in the value chain, affected communities and end consumers. The questionnaire was then sent to customers, agents, suppliers, banks, associations, the Board of Directors, the Group Executive Committee and employees via an online tool. Four questions on corporate culture were aimed exclusively at employees. The response rate was a high 83.7 percent. The evaluation took into account whether Rieter has an external impact on a topic – for example, through energy-efficient products (corporate impact on the economy, environment and people) – or whether an issue has an external impact on the company, such as changing legislation or regulations (impact on the company).

The five key topics identified from the analysis – biodiversity, circular economy, climate change, employees and corporate governance – were further specified in the 2024 reporting year. The topic of biodiversity was combined with the circular economy in order to sharpen the focus on resource efficiency. Rieter reviews the material topics on an ongoing basis.

Key topics