TOKYO — YKK Corp. has once again achieved the prestigious “A List” rating in the 2024 Climate Change survey by CDP, a global environmental disclosure nonprofit. This marks the second consecutive year YKK has received this honor, underscoring its commitment to sustainability and proactive climate action.
YKK’s Sustainability Vision 2050 outlines its path to climate neutrality by 2050. The company aims to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions—across Scope 1, 2, and 3—by 90% from 2018 levels, aligning with the Science Based Targets (SBT) initiative’s net-zero target. Recognition from CDP reflects YKK’s leadership in disclosing climate-related information and its dedication to reducing emissions throughout its supply chain. YKK remains committed to working with customers and local communities to advance sustainability and contribute to a greener future.
Comment from Minoru Maeda, Vice President and General Manager of the Environment & Safety Management Department, YKK Corp.:
“Guided by the YKK Philosophy of the CYCLE OF GOODNESS®, which states ‘No one prospers without rendering benefit to others,’ we are dedicated to building a sustainable society through our core business. In December 2024, we received validation from the SBT initiative for our net-zero target. To achieve net-zero GHG emissions throughout our supply chain by FY2050, we are implementing various measures such as energy conservation and renewable energy, while maintaining high transparency in our information disclosure. We will continue to actively work to reduce our GHG emissions and environmental impact throughout our value chain to enhance our trustworthiness with all stakeholders, including our environmentally conscious customers and suppliers.”
Progress on YKK’s Sustainability Vision 2050
As part of its long-term Sustainability Vision, YKK is working to achieve climate neutrality and coexistence with nature by 2050. The company has identified five key focus areas—climate change, material resources, water resources, chemical management, and respect for people—and aims to meet ten related Sustainability Development Goals (SDGs). Progress toward these goals is disclosed annually in YKK’s Integrated Report, This is YKK.
The YKK Philosophy of the CYCLE OF GOODNESS®
At the heart of YKK’s sustainability initiatives is the CYCLE OF GOODNESS®, a corporate philosophy established by YKK’s founder, Tadao Yoshida. His belief that “No one prospers without rendering benefit to others” remains a guiding principle for the company. This philosophy emphasizes mutual prosperity with society, customers, industries, and employees, a vision that seamlessly aligns with modern sustainability principles.
Tadao Yoshida illustrated this mindset through analogies and statements that continue to resonate today. He compared business to “building a bridge,” emphasizing mutual societal benefits, while his assertion that “trash can be a great resource if it is utilized with ingenuity” underscores environmental responsibility. Additionally, his phrase “the strength of the forest is greater than the trees” highlights the importance of human rights and individuality.
Despite evolving times, this philosophy continues to guide YKK’s management, fostering a company culture focused on sustainability, innovation, and social responsibility more than 90 years after its inception. Through this enduring commitment, YKK strives to build a sustainable society while inspiring trust among stakeholders worldwide.
