Harman leads the way in sustainable innovation with durable, recyclable products

As companies face the challenge of reducing their carbon footprint and adopting more environmentally responsible production models, Harman is taking important steps toward transformation. In addition to offering audio solutions that combine high-performance technologies with recyclable materials, energy efficiency and circular design, the company demonstrates that it is possible to deliver products that respect the environment without sacrificing quality or innovation.

With a focus on sustainability, Harman reached a major milestone by reducing more than 47 million kilos of CO₂ emissions, which equates to a 2.7% decrease in the environmental impact of all its products. This achievement was achieved through key actions, such as the incorporation of recycled materials, the manufacture of more energy-efficient products and the replacement of harmful components. For example, the brand has already launched 17 new PVC-free products and reduced standby power consumption on its Wi-Fi devices to less than 1 watt, which translates into lower electricity usage when the equipment is turned off.

"The results reflect our commitment to act consciously and innovatively. At Harman, we believe that sustainability is not a one-time goal, but a consistent practice that is perfected over time. It is a principle that guides us at every stage of the product's life cycle: from its conception and development, through production, efficient and prolonged use, maintenance and repair during its useful life, to its eventual disposal and reuse of components," says Rodrigo Kniest, president of Harman Brazil, senior vice president and general manager of the Lifestyle division in South America.

In a world where the impact of products depends on the materials they are made from and how they are consumed, Harman structured its sustainability strategy around three core pillars: the materials used, the way it packages its products, and energy efficiency during use. The company has increased the use of recycled plastics, fabrics and aluminum in its portfolio, in addition to redesigning its packaging towards a more compact and environmentally responsible model. In practice, more than 100 new products have already been packaged in this format, reinforcing the company's commitment to a more conscious production chain.

In line with these efforts, SCS Global Services, a leader and pioneer in sustainability standards and certification, has validated the recyclable content of 14 JBL and 6 Harman Kardon products so far, thus recognizing the brand's effort and remarkable progress towards a more responsible portfolio. At the same time, energy consumption levels are being optimized, even when products are not in use, directly contributing to the reduction of the company's carbon emissions.

Another focus of the company is to extend the useful life of its products through a circular design. Harman is investing in components that are easy to repair or replace, such as batteries, which can be replaced by users themselves in all devices. The brand is also developing products with water-resistant design to facilitate disassembly at the end of the item's life. These actions reduce the volume of e-waste and contribute to conserving valuable resources, such as energy and materials.

Harman's progress reflects the first steps in a transformation towards more responsible and sustainable operations. Although it faces significant challenges, the company has integrated environmental care as one of the pillars of its corporate strategy. Among its objectives is to continue reducing the environmental impact of its operations, optimize product design and promote more conscious consumption habits, thus reinforcing its long-term commitment to the environment.

These are just a few examples of all that Harman has accomplished recently on its path to more responsible and sustainable operations. The brand acknowledges that there is still much to be done, but emphasizes that this vision is not a trend or a campaign: it is a fundamental pillar of its corporate strategy.

The company maintains that reducing environmental impact, refining design aspects and promoting more conscious consumption are part of its long-term commitment to the planet.

Harman Brazil's sustainability actions

In line with the brand's global actions, Harman integrates sustainable practices into its production chain in Brazil. Initiatives such as reducing the use of virgin plastics, increasing the use of recycled materials and oil-based inks, adopting renewable energy sources, reducing carbon emissions, implementing a water reuse system for irrigation, and using solar luminaires are examples of the company's commitment to the environment.

As a highlight, the Manaus plant is the only Harman plant in the world to have obtained UL 2799 "Zero Waste to Landfill" certification, in addition to achieving the Platinum level, demonstrating 100% waste diversion with energy recovery. Among the central axes of ESG policies are practices with the local community, the optimization of efficiency in energy consumption, the reduction of waste and the conscious use of water resources.