57 PRODUCT - SUSTAINABLE INNOVATION Guardini takes a proactive approach to sustainable innovation. As early as 2023, we launched the X-Bake line, a collection of low-CO2 bakeware, entirely PFASfree from the production stage. This choice anticipates forthcoming European regulations and reflects our commitment to combining performance, food safety, and sustainability. In 2024, we further optimized production processes related to the PFAS-free line, addressing initial technical challenges and improving overall line efficiency. Investments in research and development led to the development of more workable formulations, enabling us to reduce waste and limit the percentage of second-choice products. To support this process, we established weekly technical meetings with partners specializing in coatings and their application, in order to constantly monitor progress, address emerging challenges, and guide the transition toward more sustainable materials. Finally, Guardini is collaborating with strategic suppliers to develop new product lines characterized by innovative combinations of internal and external materials and customized finishes, designed to meet both European food-contact material regulations and the specific requirements of international markets such as the United States and Canada. Guardini reaffirms its commitment to sustainability, aiming to progressively reduce the environmental impact of its activities while promoting responsible practices throughout the value chain, in collaboration with partners, customers, and stakeholders. LCA e XCarb In 2022, we conducted a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) study to evaluate the environmental impacts, including the carbon footprint, of a medium-sized Guardini baking pan, in line with international standards ISO 14040, ISO 14044, ISO 14067, and PCR “Tableware and kitchenware” by EPD International. The main objectives were to identify improvement areas along the product life cycle and to communicate our environmental commitment to stakeholders. The main findings and improvement areas identified in this study are: • Steel production phase (Upstream value chain): accounts for 53.7% of total CO2e emissions. For this reason, in 2023, we sought a partnership with ArcelorMittal to use their XCarb® Green Steel, which enabled us to significantly reduce emissions (-42%). • Use phase (Downstream value chain): responsible for 20.4% of total CO2e emissions. Based on this finding, we launched a consumer awareness campaign on conscious water use during dishwashing and on the impact of oven baking, which represents over 90% of emissions in the use phase.
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