Focus on Circular Economy

Do the Right Thing from the Start and All the Way Through
Nexans has analyzed its material flows and environmental impact in collaboration with suppliers, and the results clearly show that copper is becoming a scarce resource. In fact, a global shortfall of around 18% is expected in the coming years.

That’s Why We’re Investing in Circular Solutions
To reduce pressure on the planet’s resources and secure future supply, the circular economy has become a central part of our strategy. By recycling more and using less newly produced material, we can both reduce our climate impact and become less dependent on mining.

A concrete example is our investment in a new recycling facility – NCCCR (Nexans Continuous Copper Casting & Recycling) – launching in 2026. It will enable greater use of recycled copper scrap instead of virgin copper.

Circularity in Practice
At Nexans, we work systematically to reduce resource use and climate impact. We aim to do the right thing from the beginning, extend the lifespan of products and materials, and ensure they can be recycled.

Our model is based on five clear steps – Refuse, Reduce, Recycle, Reuse, and Renew.

• Refuse – Say no to unnecessary resources
• Reduce – Minimize resource consumption
• Recycle – Recycle materials
• Reuse – Reuse products and packaging
• Renew – Use renewable resources

Here we showcase a selection of actions we’ve already taken to reduce waste, save resources, and create a more circular approach in our operations. From conscious material choices and recycling to fossil-free electricity and packaging reuse – these are concrete examples of how we turn our sustainability ambitions into real action.

Material Selection & Supplier Review
We carefully select materials and suppliers and closely monitor compliance with requirements such as REACh, RoHS, and conflict minerals policy. More than 98% of our purchases are covered by CSR-documented agreements.

Efficiency & Resource Consumption
Where standards allow, we reduce the amount of material in our products. For example, in 2022 we launched the EQLQ Easy Control cable.

We are implementing Industry 4.0 with real-time digital monitoring of energy and materials, reducing waste and optimizing production.

We are investing in autonomous electric trucks and forklifts. Our current fleet runs on biofuel (HVO100) until the transition to electric is complete, reducing the climate impact of internal logistics.

Recycling and Use of Recycled Materials
We have a concrete plan to increase the recycling rate and the proportion of recycled materials in cables, packaging, and drums.

We use at least 30% recycled copper in our cables.

Our new product offerings AML 1 kV and AMCL 12/24 kV are designed with recyclable thermoplastic insulation and over 45% recycled plastic in the outer sheath.

Since the late 1990s, we have used Lifemark. Lifemark ensures that cables can be classified and recycled in the future. Learn more in the video below.

Return and Reuse of Cable Drums
Through Selcable, we offer a drum return system for wooden drums. Once emptied, the drums are collected, repaired, and reused. This reduces waste, saves resources, and contributes to circular packaging management.

Use of Renewable Resources
Production in Grimsås is entirely powered by fossil-free electricity from wind and hydropower. With local manufacturing, we reduce the climate impact of our products and shorten transport distances.

Responsible Conduct
We know that sustainability issues are complex and constantly evolving. That’s why we strive to stay informed, avoid greenwashing, and continuously improve based on the best knowledge available today.