Wood

The world’s forests are crucial to our planet – animals, plants and humans alike. They provide clean air, a home to countless species, climate regulation, and so much more. That is why Varo encourages and supports sustainable forestry.

We make sure our manufacturers use FSC® certified wood to produce the Powerplus tools that are (partially) made of wood. Additionally, our packaging and other paper or cardboard promotional materials are produced by local printing companies that use FSC® certified paper.

An FSC® certification means the wood is sourced and managed responsibly to prevent deforestation and ensures the fauna and flora in and around the woods are protected. The FSC® doesn’t just protect the forests. The workers harvesting the wood are also guaranteed fair wages and a safe work environment, all while respecting the rights of local communities in and around these forests.

Plastic

Varo is saying goodbye to unnecessary single use plastics in our packaging as we focus more on recyclability and integrate more durable materials

PVC is replaced by cardboard or recycled plastic, there are no more superfluous plastic sleeves for loose parts and plastic blisters have also been replaced by cardboard versions wherever possible. Additionally, we are banning plastic bubble wrap and polystyrene buffers as shipments sent out from our warehouse in Lier will be filled with paper or cardboard instead.

Not only are we excluding single use plastics from our packaging, we will also be reducing the amount of PVC used in our product design, by using more sustainable rubber materials wherever technically possible.

Energy

Part of our plan to conserve more energy involves focusing less on high consumption products and more on zero emission alternatives. That is why we are expanding and prioritising our assortment of battery-operated tools. Not only do they consume less energy, they also minimize our environmental impact by eliminating emissions.

Our warehouse is equipped with motion sensors, so lights turn off and on automatically, conserving energy. In addition, LED lighting has been installed throughout our offices and the rest of the building.

We have started the electrification of our company parking lot, which includes installing several charging stations for electric vehicles and e-bikes, encouraging employees to transition to eco-friendly transportation options.

Waste

In our efforts to reduce waste, we are not just banning unnecessary plastics, we are also continuously taking new measures to recycle and make our products more durable and repairable. As part of the technical committee, we support and actively cooperate in defining the standards for eco design.

As part of our waste management plan, sorting bins are located throughout the company buildings. They allow us to easily collect and recycle our waste, e.g. plastic bottles, metal containers and drink cartons, as well as organic waste.

Decarbonisation

To reduce our carbon footprint and contribute to a greener future, we are committed to cutting our carbon emissions by 50% by 2030, using 2023 as our baseline. This includes emissions generated by our company’s activities, such as the use of company vehicles and heating, as well as those from external sources, like electricity providers.

To further support this commitment, employees have the option to lease an electric bicycle as part of our bonus plan. This initiative aims to reduce the number of cars on the road and decrease emissions. By providing access to charging stations on our company lot, we want to encourage people to take advantage of this programme and opt for electric transportation.

On a larger scale, we have chosen to implement inland shipping instead of lorries for the transportation of our products. Not only does this make shipping more efficient, it also contributes to Varo’s endeavour towards a more ecological approach.