Facing the challenges of climate change and societal expectations, CSRC in 2024 once again demonstrated its commitment to sustainability through concrete actions. Upholding the philosophy of "Creating Diverse Value, Protecting a Green Earth, and Promoting Social Friendliness," we have comprehensively enhanced our performance in corporate governance, environmental protection, and social responsibility.
To meet our carbon reduction goals, we have actively adopted recycled oils and replaced heavy oil with natural gas as alternative energy sources. Despite the full-scale production at our CCET plant in India in 2024, which increased annual output by 233% compared to 2023, we successfully controlled the Group's Scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions, achieving a 19.7% reduction from the baseline year. This steady progress brings us closer to our target of a 21% carbon reduction by 2030. Additionally, our Linyuan plant in Taiwan and Ponca and Sunray plants in the United States have all obtained ISCC PLUS international certification, showcasing our commitment and capability in green manufacturing.
In terms of product innovation, we focus on research and development with circular value and sustainability potential. Through the "Ouroboros" Eco-circular carbon black solution, utilizing pyrolysis oil from waste tires and carbon black recovery technology, we have produced eco-friendly products with performance comparable to virgin carbon black, successfully applied to Cheng Shin bicycle tires. Furthermore, by integrating post-modification technology, we developed the EREBOS R series, expanding into electronic materials and ink coatings, and have completed patent applications. We have also made significant breakthroughs in advanced carbon materials research, successfully synthesizing high-quality single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) using the FCCVD method (Floating Catalyst Chemical Vapor Deposition) and established purification and suspension processes, laying a solid foundation for high-efficiency battery applications.
In 2024, we collaborated with Eco Infinic, a Thai subsidiary of SHEICO Group, to set up an rCB (recycled carbon black) production facility at our CCC Phenix plant in the United States, highlighting our long-term commitment to sustainable carbon black technology. This partnership not only strengthens the green resilience of our supply chain but also symbolizes our elevation of supply chain management to a new level of co-creation and shared prosperity.
Regarding talent and culture, CSRC is dedicated to creating a friendly workplace, offering parental benefits exceeding legal requirements, including an additional three days of paid parental leave. In 2024, we launched the "Carbon Black Learning Map" program, identifying and categorizing the knowledge and skills required for different positions and levels, and established corresponding training and verification mechanisms to support precise employee development. Additionally, through a family day event featuring the environmental documentary "Eco Bravehearts," we fostered awareness and concern for marine environmental protection among employees and their families.
We also actively respond to the needs of local communities: supporting community and youth baseball activities in the United States to enhance community connections; assisting in residential solar installations and livelihood pond restorations in India to improve residents' lives; and promoting carbon black experimental education and mangrove ecological conservation collaborations in the Greater China region, fulfilling our corporate citizenship responsibilities.
In 2024, CSRC participated in the EcoVadis sustainability assessment as a group for the first time and received a Silver Medal. We were also honored with several awards, including the "Taiwan's Top 100 Sustainable Companies Award," "Corporate Sustainability Reporting Award – Platinum Level in Traditional Manufacturing Category 1," "Taiwan Sustainability Action Award," and "Asia-Pacific Sustainability Action Award," affirming our continuous efforts toward becoming a sustainability benchmark.
Looking ahead, CSRC will continue to collaborate with global partners, leading with innovation and grounded in responsibility, accelerating the green transformation of the industry, creating long-term achievements that balance business value and sustainable impact, and co-creating a prosperous future with all stakeholders.