How Companies Are Becoming More Sustainable in 2025

Sustainability is no longer a buzzword or a distant ideal—it’s a necessity. In 2025, companies across industries are accelerating their commitment to sustainable practices, driven by growing environmental concerns, stricter regulations, and increasing demand from eco-conscious consumers.

From phasing out harmful chemicals to adopting recyclable materials and improving energy efficiency, businesses are reevaluating every part of their operations through a green lens.

Here’s how companies are becoming more sustainable in 2025—and what that means for the future of industry and the planet.

1. Phasing Out Harmful Chemicals

One of the most significant sustainability milestones in 2025 is the discontinuation of the manufacturing of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) and Novec™ solvents.

These substances have been widely used in everything from firefighting foams and electronics cooling systems to industrial cleaning products. However, they’ve also raised major red flags regarding their environmental and health impacts.

PFAS are often referred to as “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down naturally in the environment. Over time, they accumulate in soil, water, and even human bodies, contributing to a range of health problems, including cancer, hormonal disruption, and immune system issues.

Similarly, Novec™ solvents, while once considered a safer alternative to traditional solvents, are now being phased out due to concerns over their long-term environmental persistence and potential global warming impact.

In response, manufacturers in sectors like electronics, aerospace, and industrial cleaning are actively seeking safer alternatives. Many are investing in green chemistry solutions, which prioritize the use of substances that break down safely in the environment and don’t pose risks to human health.

This transition isn’t just good for the planet—it also positions forward-thinking companies ahead of impending regulatory changes, helping them future-proof their operations.

2. Rethinking Infrastructure

Sustainability is also reshaping how companies manage and maintain their buildings. Facility managers and business owners are becoming more aware of the environmental toll associated with inefficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Poorly maintained air conditioning (AC) units, for example, can consume excessive amounts of energy, contribute to refrigerant leaks, and raise carbon footprints.

That’s why routine AC maintenance has become a key component of corporate sustainability strategies. Just like any other machine or appliance, AC units require regular servicing—at least once a year by a professional—to ensure peak efficiency and reduce energy waste. By simply keeping systems clean, checking for refrigerant leaks, and replacing filters, companies can significantly cut down on electricity usage and greenhouse gas emissions.

Some businesses are going even further by upgrading to smart HVAC systems that automatically adjust temperatures and airflow based on occupancy and environmental conditions. These systems not only improve indoor comfort but also contribute to substantial energy savings over time.

In addition to optimizing energy use inside their buildings, companies are also rethinking the materials used in their construction. One standout trend in 2025 is the increasing adoption of metal roofing, which aligns with both durability and sustainability goals. According to State Farm, metal roofing materials are typically made from recycled content and are 100% recyclable at the end of their life cycle.

This means that when it’s time to replace an aging roof, businesses can avoid sending large amounts of waste to landfills. Metal roofs also reflect solar energy, reducing the need for air conditioning and lowering energy bills. The shift to sustainable building materials is part of a broader movement toward green building certifications like LEED and WELL, which are becoming standard in many commercial projects.

3. Circular Economy and Zero-Waste Goals

Sustainability in 2025 is about more than reducing harm—it’s about creating closed-loop systems where resources are continuously reused and nothing is wasted. This “circular economy” model is taking hold across industries, from fashion and food to electronics and automotive.

Companies like IKEA, Apple, and Unilever are leading the charge by redesigning their products for easy disassembly and recycling, offering take-back programs, and reusing materials in new product lines. Startups are also innovating with biodegradable packaging, refillable containers, and alternative materials made from seaweed, mushroom mycelium, and even food waste.

For manufacturing companies, achieving zero-waste goals often means transforming how production lines operate. This could include:

• Installing systems to capture and reuse water or heat
• Partnering with suppliers who offer sustainable raw materials
• Finding creative ways to repurpose scrap materials

In 2025, sustainability is being baked into the design phase, not tacked on at the end of the process.

4. Embracing Renewable Energy

Renewable energy has become central to corporate sustainability plans. As the cost of solar and wind power continues to decline, more companies are investing in on-site renewable installations and power purchase agreements (PPAs) to meet their energy needs.

In 2025, it’s common to see commercial buildings with solar panels on rooftops, wind turbines on large campuses, and even geothermal systems for heating and cooling. Some companies are going beyond using renewable energy for their own operations and are contributing to the grid, helping to support a more resilient and sustainable energy infrastructure.

Even traditionally carbon-intensive industries, like logistics and manufacturing, are shifting toward electrification powered by renewables. Electric delivery fleets, solar-powered warehouses, and battery storage systems are no longer futuristic concepts—they’re operational realities.

5. Employee and Community Engagement

Sustainability efforts in 2025 aren’t just top-down initiatives—they’re deeply embedded in company culture. Businesses recognize that real change requires buy-in from employees, customers, and communities alike. That’s why more organizations are rolling out employee sustainability programs, green volunteer initiatives, and incentives for eco-friendly commuting.

Employees are encouraged to participate in office recycling programs, reduce single-use plastics, and suggest ideas for improving environmental performance. Remote work options, carpooling rewards, and bike-to-work schemes are helping reduce transportation-related emissions.

Externally, companies are forming partnerships with local organizations to support urban gardening, reforestation, clean water projects, and education initiatives. By aligning corporate sustainability goals with community impact, businesses are building trust and demonstrating genuine environmental leadership.

As 2025 unfolds, it’s clear that sustainability is no longer a fringe concern—it’s a fundamental business priority. From discontinuing harmful chemicals like PFAS and Novec™ solvents to embracing renewable energy and recyclable building materials like metal roofing, companies are finding smart, innovative ways to reduce their environmental impact.

Businesses that invest in sustainability today aren’t just protecting the planet—they’re building stronger brands, more resilient operations, and a future that benefits everyone.