Covestro celebrates decade of global sustainable leadership
Since stepping out from the German multinational Bayer in 2015, Covestro has grown into a global leader in high-performance polymer materials, widely recognized for its pioneering role in advancing the circular economy.
Over the past decade, the company has achieved milestones on its journey toward becoming more innovative, sustainable and resilient. Today, Covestro's materials are found in countless applications worldwide — from mobility and construction to electronics, healthcare, and consumer goods.
"For 10 years, our people have proven that breakthrough innovations happen when curious minds meet courageous hearts," said Markus Steilemann, CEO of Covestro. "I'm incredibly proud of our global team. Their passion, creativity, and resilience have formed the foundation of our culture. Thanks to their dedication, we continue to overcome challenges, seize opportunities, and create solutions that make the world a brighter place."
Since 2015, Covestro has invested more than 4 billion euros ($4.66 billion) to expand and modernize its global operations, with a clear focus on sustainable production technologies. A significant milestone was the integration of DSM's Resins & Functional Materials business, which strengthened Covestro's position in sustainable coating solutions and broadened its customer base.
The company has also advanced technologies for renewable-based raw materials, pioneered chemical recycling methods for high-performance plastics, and signed 11 power purchase agreements to significantly increase renewable energy use in its operations. Covestro's commitment to innovation and people has earned it recognition as a top employer repeatedly in multiple regions, including China, where it operates 10 production sites alone.
China, Covestro's largest single market, plays a vital role in this journey. The company and its predecessor have been present in the country for decades, covering a full spectrum of activities from research and development to manufacturing and sales. Covestro, whose vision of becoming fully circular is aligned with China's dual carbon goals, is committed to supporting the country's green transitions, particularly in dynamic markets such as electric vehicles, renewable energy, consumer electronics and construction. China has pledged to peak its carbon dioxide emissions before 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality before 2060.
"Covestro has proudly stood as a role model of Sino-German cooperation, combining global innovation with Chinese dynamism to deliver sustainable solutions for tomorrow. Our journey in China would not have been possible without the dedication of our employees, the trust of our customers, and the support of our partners," said Holly Lei, president of Covestro China. "As we mark this milestone, we remain committed to driving the green transformation through collaborative innovation. Together, we look forward to building a more circular and sustainable future."
Guided by its purpose "to make the world a brighter place", Covestro has built a decade of success on a foundation of values. These values — Curious, Courageous and Colorful — have become the cornerstone of the company's approach to innovation and collaboration, driving exploration of groundbreaking solutions, empowering bold decision-making and embracing diverse perspectives that fuel creativity and resilience.
