From European regulations to industrial strategies for decarbonization: how the lubricants sector is evolving through efficiency, innovation, and sustainability.
— News
A More Regulated and Sustainable Context
In recent years, the growing focus on sustainability has led to the adoption of increasingly stringent CO₂ emissions regulations, directly impacting several industrial sectors, including the production and use of lubricants.
Within the framework of the European Green Deal, Regulation (EU) 2019/1242 sets a target of a 15% reduction in emissions from heavy-duty vehicles by 2025. In parallel, the Euro 7 proposal introduces stricter limits not only for combustion engines but also for braking systems, tires, and wear components, aiming to ensure low emissions throughout the entire vehicle lifecycle.
These directives are pushing the lubricants supply chain to rethink processes, formulations, and strategies to offer solutions that are both high-performing and sustainable.
Compliance and Innovation: The Industry’s Response
To remain competitive and compliant with new regulations, companies are adopting an increasingly proactive and integrated approach. Some of the most common directions include:
- Low-viscosity lubricants, capable of reducing friction in mechanical systems and optimizing energy consumption. According to ATIEL, this solution directly contributes to CO₂ emissions reduction.
- Use of regenerated and bio-based base oils, derived from renewable sources or circular processes. As highlighted by Shell, this choice enables a concrete reduction in environmental impact.
- Optimized oil change intervals, made possible by more stable formulations and advanced monitoring systems. Reducing replacement frequency means cutting down on consumption, costs, and carbon footprint.
Additional initiatives involve the digitalization of production processes, which allow for real-time data collection and optimization at every stage of the product lifecycle, making it easier to comply with regulatory and environmental standards.
Some companies are also investing in voluntary environmental certifications, such as the EcoVadis system or ISO 14064, which provide a structured framework to monitor and communicate emissions impact. These tools are becoming competitive assets for industrial lubricant suppliers, especially in international markets where sustainability is a key priority.
Lubricants as a Lever for Decarbonization
Lubricants are playing an increasingly significant role in the transition to a low-emission economy. Some examples:
- Improved energy efficiency: high-performance lubricants help reduce energy consumption and thus direct emissions. A study by Lubrizol confirms that lower friction results in an immediate drop in emissions.
- Extended component lifespan: proper lubrication protects machinery, limits wear and tear, and reduces the need for frequent replacements, as indicated by Petro Online.
- Application in renewable energy systems: wind turbines and solar plants require specialized lubricants to ensure long-term efficiency and durability. According to Precision Lubrication, this niche is rapidly growing.
- Support for circular economy models: regenerated lubricants, when properly processed, can be reused without compromising quality, helping to reduce reliance on fossil-based raw materials.
Iglom’s Approach
In a constantly evolving landscape, Iglom closely monitors regulatory and technological developments in the sector. While operating according to the Client’s specifications, the company actively contributes to process quality and sustainability through:
- Strict quality control, to ensure compliance with required parameters.
- Continuous updates of internal processes, to maintain high standards of safety, efficiency, and traceability.
- Collaboration with industrial partners, to help build a cleaner, more reliable, and future-oriented supply chain.
- Ongoing regulatory monitoring, to support responsible management and readiness to adapt to change.
