Population Growth

The population worldwide is growing, and so is the total worldwide consumption. Suppose all the people in the world would have the same consumption as the average American or European.  Just imagine the effect this would have on sales – and the increased impact on the planet. This transition is already noticeable in Asia and South America. The middle class in these regions is growing, causing an increase in their consumption of goods. The development in Asia and South America for the last decades is comparable to the development that we have seen in North America and Europe over the past 150 years.

On the one hand this growth is of course a great opportunity for AkzoNobel. The paint and chemical use will increase, enabling us to sell more of our products in these new markets.

On the other hand we are very aware of the consequences of this increased consumption. This growth will not be sustainable without major product improvements and innovations. Therefore we are continuously developing products, which fulfil the customer needs, yet have a lower impact on the planet.