How ZF Friedrichshafen and DFGE build PCF Capabilities across the Supply Chain
Customer: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
Category: Automotive / Manufacturing
ZF Friedrichshafen AG is a global technology leader providing comprehensive solutions for the mobility of the future. With a broad product portfolio ranging from driveline and chassis technologies to active and passive safety systems, ZF plays a central role in the automotive industry. Sustainability is a key pillar of the company’s strategy, and reducing environmental impacts across the value chain is a clear priority.
To achieve these goals, ZF is a member of Catena-X, a collaborative network aimed at improving data transparency and interoperability throughout the supply chain. In this context, reliable emissions data and a standardized approach to Product Carbon Footprint (PCF) calculation are essential.
As part of the Catena-X initiative, ZF commissioned DFGE to conduct PCF calculation training for all suppliers. This training represents a crucial step toward obtaining emissions data from a global and highly diverse production material supplier base. The provision of PCF data is required for every offer submitted to ZF. To ensure broad availability, the training materials were published on the ZF Supplier Board and on ZF’s sustainability website for the supply chain. ZF chose DFGE for this task due to its extensive expertise in environmental management and sustainability, combined with a strong focus on practical, hands-on solutions.
Challenges
From Complexity to Transparency: Key Challenges in PCF Implementation
ZF introduced PCF transparency as a mandatory sourcing criterion at an early stage. Implementing a standardized PCF calculation across a large and heterogeneous supplier base, however, presented significant challenges. Many suppliers initially had limited or no knowledge of PCF requirements, methodologies, or calculation principles.
In addition, calculating a Product Carbon Footprint is a complex process that requires a solid understanding of emission sources, system boundaries, and data availability. The collection of accurate and reliable emissions data is essential but often difficult, as data quality and availability vary widely across the supply chain.
Furthermore, suppliers were required to integrate PCF calculations into their existing business processes and quotation systems, adding an additional layer of complexity. All calculations also needed to comply with Catena-X-specific standards, as defined in the Product Carbon Footprint Rulebook.
Solution
Practical Enablement through targeted Training Solutions
To address these challenges, DFGE developed a pragmatic and tailored training program specifically designed to meet the needs of ZF’s suppliers. The training translated complex methodological requirements into clear, structured guidance and made PCF calculation understandable through practical examples and step-by-step instructions.
To maximize accessibility and reach, the training materials were provided in digital format. Via the ZF Supplier Board, suppliers were able to download all relevant documents and access the content at any time.
The training included detailed guidelines and illustrative case studies on PCF calculation, enabling suppliers to apply the methodology directly to their own products. In addition, DFGE offered continuous support and established feedback loops, allowing suppliers to clarify questions and address challenges as they arose.
Result
Measurable Impact and Strengthened Collaboration across the Supply Chain
The training initiative conducted by DFGE proved to be a significant success for ZF and its supply chain. Suppliers developed a solid understanding of PCF calculation and its relevance for sustainable business practices. As a result, they were able to deliver consistent and comparable emissions data that could be directly integrated into their offers to ZF.
Beyond methodological improvements, the close collaboration between ZF, DFGE, and the suppliers strengthened the overall network and fostered a shared commitment to achieving sustainability goals.
In summary, this case study demonstrates how ZF, through targeted training measures and close cooperation with a specialized partner like DFGE, successfully enabled its suppliers to master PCF calculations and advance sustainability throughout the supply chain.
Olga Schick-Scheider
Head of Sustainability Supply Chain, ZF Group
“ZF made PCF transparency a mandatory sourcing criterion early on and partnered with DFGE to develop an efficient training solution. This collaboration has been key in enabling our suppliers to successfully meet PCF calculation requirements.”
