Sustainability
At GZ North America, we believe music and sustainability should work together as one. We are committed to reducing our environmental footprint and embedding sustainability into every stage of our business. Our approach is data-driven, continuously improving, and designed to meet the evolving expectations of our customers and partners.
Carbon
Footprint
Breakdown
We measure, track, and analyze the full Scope 1–3 carbon emissions of our vinyl record production. This allows us to implement targeted strategies that meaningfully reduce our impact.
13%
% of total emissions
Scope 1
Natural Gas, Company Vehicles
11%
% of total emissions
Scope 2
Purchased Electricity
76%
% of total emissions
Scope 3
Purchased Goods, Employee Travel, Transport, Waste Management
Energy Use Reduction
Recognizing the potential of energy efficiency measures in reducing our direct GHG emissions, we are conducting energy efficiency audits at our pressing plants with the goal of reducing our overall energy consumption, including the possibility of upgrading to more efficient technology and systems.
Sourcing
sustainable
materials
GZNA champions environmental stewardship by integrating sustainable materials throughout our three vinyl record plants. We utilize the latest carbon footprint reducing materials, equipment and processes to offer premium, high-quality, eco-conscious vinyl records to all customers.
Our Biovinyl
In 2025 we launched the production of Bio-based PVC compound as an alternative to the standard PVC made from fossil fuels. The Bio PVC material is exactly the same as the current PVC material, but the production uses bioethylene and renewable energy to reduce carbon emissions related to PVC compound up to 90%.
The manufacturing of Bio PVC compound and records adheres to ISCC+ mass balance approach and is rigorously monitored ensuring complete traceability of sustainable material throughout our value chain. Our ISCC+ certifications are verified annually by an independent third party to ensure full compliance with the ISCC+ Mass Balance System.
FSC & PEFC Certified Paper
All paper and board stocks used by GZNA are FSC or PEFC Certified, ensuring the environments they're sourced from are responsibly managed and meet the highest environmental and social standards. Our shipping cartons are made from 90% recycled materials. Customers can further reduce their carbon footprint by choosing to print jackets on recycled stock, which we estimate reduces carbon emissions by approximately 40%.
Climate change
mitigation
Tree Canada Partnership
Founded in 1992, Tree Canada is the only national non-profit organization dedicated to planting and nurturing trees in rural and urban environments across the country.
We have funded various afforestation and reforestation projects across Canada, planting over 200,000 trees. These trees are expected to sequester up to 40,000 tonnes CO2e over their lifetime, enhance biodiversity, and improve the lives of local communities.
Learn more about this partnership in the report below.
In 2024, our Ontario based team took part in a Tree Planting event (pictured) in Burlington, ON to plant 125 native trees and shrubs, restoring wildlife habitats, improving biodiversity, and promoting community health and wellness.
Waste
Reduction
Recognizing the impact of our waste on the environment, we have implemented a comprehensive Waste Management Plan.
DIVERTING FROM LANDFILL
Since 2023 we have reduced PVC waste sent to landfill by 72%. This was achieved by introducing new protocols and separation of waste, to increase reusability.
Our Eco Mix
In addition to offering Bio PVC Vinyl, we are focused on ensuring a near 100% use of all PVC compound material in our operations. The popularity of multi-color albums has resulted in multi-color trimmings and reject records that are challenging to recycle based on standard practices. Eco Mix is a targeted solution to this challenge.
The records are made from 100% recycled vinyl compound separated into six color groups (red, blue, green, orange/yellow, purple, and grey) with attractive marble appearances.
Recycling Obsolete Product
GZNA welcomes the return of any unsold/obsolete stock manufactured at our facility, to be disassembled, recycled and reused. This stock must be in original packaging to ensure its suitability for recycling.
Please speak with your account manager or email our Sustainability Department to arrange the return of obsolete stock to the nearest GZNA plant.