EPIC (European Photonics Industry Consortium) has announced IMM Photonics as the recipient of the EPIC’s inaugural Sustainability Award 2025 for their outstanding contributions to environmental, social, and economic sustainability.
Established in 1992, IMM Photonics specializes in the development and production of optical and optoelectronic components and modules, and since 2015, they have been pursuing a corporate policy of sustainability. In the area of energy & environment, their achievements to date include a reduction in CO2 emissions by over 45% in 2023 vs. 2022 (mobility, heating, electricity), 100% renewable energy used at their energy-intensive Teisnach location, and energy-efficient LED lighting at both locations.
In relation to performance & efficiency, they have replaced mercury vapor lamps with resource-saving UV LEDs in their production process, introduced a water purification system instead of bottled water, installed motion sensors in public spaces, and their vehicle fleet consists almost entirely of electric cars.
Finally, regarding social and societal responsibility, the company offers its employees an attractive company sponsored pension plan, and an employer-financed company health insurance. And to save resources and improve the work-life balance, employees are free to decide whether they work in the office or at home. Additionally, as part of their contribution to society, they require their suppliers to comply with IMM Photonics guidelines regarding labour and human rights, ethical business practices and environmental responsibility.
In 2024, IMM Photonics received a silver sustainability rating from EcoVadis, a globally recognized provider of sustainability ratings for companies. In 2025, they are aiming for a gold rating by reducing CO2e by another 30%, avoiding packaging waste (e.g., mixing adhesives in-house), reducing product complexity to extend lifecycles, and expanding the use of reusable packaging.
Commenting on the award, Christian Raith said, “On behalf of IMM Photonics I am honored to receive this award from EPIC in recognition of our continued commitment to sustainability. Our silver sustainability rating by EcoVadis means that IMM Photonics is in the top 15% of companies assessed by them. This is not only a sign of the company’s commitment to acting responsibly, but also an important step towards a more sustainable future for the environment, society, and future generations.
Carlos Lee, Director General of EPIC congratulated him saying “IMM Photonics is an excellent example of what can be done in sustainability. This is one of the most critical issues companies will face in the coming years as both politics and society increasingly demand that businesses take on more responsibility in climate and environmental protection.”
