Sustainability

Traditionally, the Company attaches great importance to its commitment to the common good and the environment. Responsible corporate behavior for the Group includes reconciling economic objectives with ecological and social aspects. Sustainability goals are firmly anchored in the corporate strategy and are based on social responsibility, social commitment and technological innovation.

A key aspect here is improving the quality of life of patients worldwide through the widespread application of products and solutions. In fiscal year 2024/25, over 2 million intraocular lenses (IOLs) were sold, more than 3 million refractive procedures were performed, and around 250,000 vitrectomy procedures were carried out (based on the number of vitrectomy kits and instruments sold). These figures illustrate the relevance of technologies in modern eye surgery – from vision restoration and refractive corrections through to complex vitreoretinal procedures. In addition, a cumulative total of over 68,000 software licenses were issued, reflecting the increasing use of digital solutions and the ongoing networking of medical systems. These digital applications support clinical decision-making processes, improve efficiency and help raise the quality of patient care.

The volume of over 1 million drapes (sterile surgical covers to protect the surgical field) sold in fiscal year 2024/25 underscores the broad application of the products in the field of microsurgery. They enable precise and safe procedures to be conducted, particularly in neurosurgery, ENT, dental and plastic-reconstructive surgery. Since not all users of ZEISS surgical microscopes also use ZEISS drapes, the actual number of microsurgical procedures is significantly higher. The introduction of supply contracts for drapes in tandem with the sale of microscopes is expected to lead to a further increase in sales.

The consequences of climate change, in particular the increase in the number of extreme weather events, are not currently having any significant impact on the key growth factors in the medical technology sector. The Group’s production sites are not located in regions with a heightened risk of natural hazards, nor is it necessary to purchase carbon certificates.

At the same time, the Company believes it has a responsibility to use its technologies and innovations to actively help overcome climate challenges. The Carl Zeiss Meditec Group is continuously working to increase resource efficiency in production and logistics and to expand the use of renewable energies. Sustainability aspects such as energy consumption, material efficiency and product service life are taken into account right from the development phase. The Company also ensures that its supply chain functions on a responsible basis and that its partners comply with environmental and social standards.

The aim is to reconcile economic growth with sustainable action and thus create long-term added value for society in general, the environment and the Company.

In accordance with Sections 315b and c in conjunction with sections 289b et seq. of the German Commercial Code (HGB) and the EU Taxonomy Regulation, Carl Zeiss Meditec AG is publishing a separate, condensed non-financial report for the 2024/25 fiscal year. This report contains relevant information for understanding the Company’s business performance, position and impact on the environment and society. It is available in German and English at https://www.zeiss.com/meditec-ag/en/investor-relations/financial-publications.html.