Double materiality

Prioritising issues key to sustainability

In alignment with our ‘sustainability to core’ strategy, we undertook our first comprehensive double materiality assessment in 2024, which captures two critical dimensions – ‘financial’ and ‘impact’ materiality principles. The assessment adhered to the double materiality principle, considering both internal (inside-out) and external (outside-in) perspectives.

Financial materiality
Impact materiality
Financial materiality

A sustainability topic is deemed material from a financial perspective if it has, or may have, significant financial implications for Schaeffler. These implications can include a notable effect on the company’s cash flows, performance, development, financial position, cost of capital or access to funding.

What does it mean for Schaeffler?
Impact materiality

A sustainability topic is considered material from an impact perspective if Schaeffler has, or may have, a positive or negative impact - either actual or potential - on people or the environment.

Financial materiality

Identifies and prioritises most critical sustainability areas and facilitates strategic decision-making to mitigate risks and maximise returns for shareholders.

How does it help?
Impact materiality

A sustainability topic is considered material from an impact perspective if Schaeffler has, or may have, a positive or negative impact - either actual or potential - on people or the environment.

Financial materiality

Investors and lenders.

Who is it for?
Impact materiality

All stakeholders who want to understand impact and contribute to sustainable growth.

Scope of Assessment

The assessment delves deep into our operational ecosystem, examining:

  • Direct operational impacts
  • Supply chain interactions (Upstream)
  • Product and service impacts (Downstream)
  • Environmental considerations
  • Social responsibility dimensions
  • Governance and ethical practices

Materiality Matrix

Material Issues

Environmental
  • Waste management
  • Energy management
  • Emissions management
  • Water management
  • Transportation and logistics
  • Biodiversity
Social
  • Community engagement
  • Diversity and inclusion
  • Human rights
  • Safety and working condition
  • Product quality and safety
  • Employees in value chain
  • Vendor management
  • Human capital development
  • R&D innovation
  • Customer relationship management
  • Sustainable product design
Governance
  • Economic performance
  • Data security and data protection
  • Ethics and transparency
  • Compliance