KÄRCHER applies "life cycle thinking" to the development of new products. This means viewing the complete life cycle of the product (from raw materials to use and disposing of the product) ensures that any environmentally effective improvements come into play in the right places. We attempt to optimize all phases in such a way that a product's overall environmental impact is minimized.
Product life cycle
Raw materials
Our products are manufactured from high quality raw materials. At the same time great importance is attached to environmental friendliness: High quality materials prolong the life of a KÄRCHER machine quite considerably.
Semi-finished products
We cooperate closely with our suppliers on all aspects affecting the environment. It is important to us to have materials that are free from harmful substances and to have partners with an effective environment management system.
Production
Our own production processes have little impact on the environment. Nevertheless, we try to improve them on a continuing basis. Examples: Heat recovery, closed water circuits, solar power etc.
Distribution
Environment-friendly means of transportation, i.e. railway, are selected wherever possible. Road transport by truck still accounts for the majority of shipments. Our central logistics system shortens transport routes and reduces harmful impacts on the environment.
Use
Product properties are improved constantly. Innovative solutions are stiven for in order to reduce e.g. water and power consumption as well as dust and noise emissions.
Repair
Attention is paid to service-friendliness in the early phases of design. Our service centre in Gissigheim, Germany ensures professional repairs world-wide.
Recycling and disposal
Recycling and reusing old machines is made possible by making the equipment easy to disassemble and choosing the correct materials. In accordance with new EU legislation as from 2005 KÄRCHER-machines will be taken back free of charge when they reach the end of their useful lives.
