Hempel (Wattyl) Australia
Hempel (Wattyl) Australia has been a GECA licensee for almost two decades. We spoke to Sonya Gifford (Channel Marketing Manager, New Residential and Commercial) about their sustainability challenges and opportunities, and why they chose to become GECA certified.
What are some of your company's key sustainability priorities?
Wattyl is committed to minimising its environmental footprint and developing high-performance coatings with reduced environmental impact. Through responsible sourcing, waste reduction initiatives, and ongoing research into low-VOC and water-based technologies, Wattyl strives to lead the way in sustainable coating solutions that support a cleaner, greener future.
Why did you choose GECA certification? And how vital is independent certification to you and your customers?
Wattyl chose GECA certification because it represents the highest standard of environmental and social responsibility for our selected products.
When customers see the GECA ecolabel on a Wattyl product, they can be confident it has undergone a rigorous third-party assessment against science-based benchmarks specific to the impacts of paints and coatings—ensuring it's a better choice for both people and the planet.
GECA certification also helps Wattyl demonstrate a genuine commitment to sustainability, contributing to a more sustainable environment.
What do you think are the biggest sustainability challenges and opportunities for your industry right now?
Reducing our carbon footprint while still leveraging the benefits of a global supply chain is a challenge. So is identifying and continually refining reduction measures across different waste streams.
Current opportunities include promoting a more circular economy through recycled packaging, investing in water-based products, implementing water-saving measures such as a closed-loop washing system, and protecting our waterways.
Is there anything else you want to share about your GECA certified products or services?
Wattyl's long-standing GECA certification demonstrates more than compliance; it reflects a deep and ongoing commitment to sustainability that permeates every level of our operations. By aligning product innovation with environmental responsibility, Wattyl continues to deliver trusted, high-performance, and sustainable coating solutions that contribute to a better environment.
