MARKET INSIGHTS

The global ball screw linear module market size was valued at USD 1.45 billion in 2025. The market is projected to grow from USD 1.58 billion in 2026 to USD 2.75 billion by 2034, exhibiting a CAGR of 7.8% during the forecast period.

Ball screw linear modules are precision mechanical assemblies crucial for converting rotational motion into highly accurate linear motion. These systems integrate a ball screw, which provides high efficiency and load capacity, with supporting components like linear guides, bearings, and a compact housing. This configuration ensures smooth, precise, and repeatable movement essential for high-precision automation tasks. The primary configurations include Single Axis modules for straightforward linear movement and more complex Multiple Axis systems for multi-directional positioning.

The market is experiencing robust growth driven by the accelerating global push for industrial automation, particularly within the automotive and electronics manufacturing sectors. The rising demand for high-speed, high-precision equipment in these industries is a significant driver. Furthermore, the expansion of applications in the medical device sector for equipment like automated analyzers and robotic surgical systems is contributing to market expansion. While the market is mature, continuous innovation from key players focusing on improved rigidity, speed, and energy efficiency is expected to fuel further growth. Leading manufacturers such as Bosch Rexroth, THK, and Schaeffler maintain a strong presence with comprehensive product portfolios tailored to diverse industrial needs.

MARKET DYNAMICS

MARKET DRIVERS

Accelerated Automation Across Manufacturing and Logistics to Propel Market Demand

The relentless push for industrial automation is a primary engine for the ball screw linear module market. These modules are critical components in automated machinery, providing the high-precision, high-load linear motion required for tasks like pick-and-place, assembly, and material handling. The global push towards Industry 4.0 and smart factories, which emphasizes interconnected, data-driven, and flexible production, is driving significant capital investment in automation equipment. For instance, global spending on robotics and automation solutions continues to climb annually, with the industrial robotics market itself projected to maintain a compound annual growth rate in the high single digits. This sustained investment directly translates into higher demand for precision motion components. Ball screw linear modules, known for their high efficiency, reliability, and positional accuracy, are often the preferred choice over belt-driven or pneumatic alternatives in applications requiring repeatable precision under substantial load, making them indispensable in modern automated cells and production lines.

Expansion of Semiconductor and Electronics Manufacturing to Fuel Precision Motion Requirements

The explosive growth and technological advancement within the semiconductor and electronics sectors present a substantial driver for high-end ball screw linear modules. The fabrication of semiconductors, flat-panel displays, and advanced printed circuit boards (PCBs) requires equipment with exceptional precision, stability, and cleanliness. Processes such as lithography, wafer handling, inspection, and testing demand linear motion systems that can achieve micron and sub-micron level accuracy over long travel distances while minimizing vibration and particulate generation. Ball screw modules excel in these environments due to their stiff construction and smooth, low-particulate operation. With global semiconductor capital expenditure consistently measured in the hundreds of billions of dollars annually and governments worldwide incentivizing domestic chip production, the demand for the sophisticated manufacturing equipment that incorporates these precision modules is set to remain robust for the foreseeable future.

Advancements in Medical Device Manufacturing and Automation to Create Sustained Growth

The medical device industry is a high-growth application segment that relies heavily on the capabilities of ball screw linear modules. The manufacturing of devices such as surgical robots, diagnostic imaging systems, automated analyzers, and drug delivery systems requires motion control that is not only precise but also exceptionally reliable and clean. Surgical robotic arms, for example, depend on multiple axes of precise linear and rotary motion to translate a surgeon's hand movements into scaled, tremor-filtered actions inside a patient. This requires modules with backlash-free operation, high rigidity, and smooth motion quality. Furthermore, the trend towards miniaturization in medical devices and the need for automated, high-throughput diagnostic equipment in laboratories are pushing manufacturers to adopt more sophisticated linear motion solutions. The stringent regulatory environment for medical devices also favors proven, reliable technologies like ball screw drives, which have a long history of performance validation in critical applications.

➤ For instance, leading manufacturers are continuously innovating, developing linear modules with integrated cable management, protective bellows for sterile environments, and compatibility with direct-drive motors to meet the specific hygiene and performance demands of the medical and life sciences sectors.

Furthermore, the increasing integration of linear modules into modular automation platforms allows machine builders and end-users to design and deploy automated systems more rapidly, reducing time-to-market for new products. This trend towards standardized, pre-engineered motion systems is lowering the barrier to automation for small and medium-sized enterprises, thereby expanding the total addressable market for ball screw linear modules beyond traditional heavy-industry applications.

MARKET CHALLENGES

Intense Price Competition and Pressure from Alternative Technologies to Challenge Market Share

The ball screw linear module market, while growing, faces persistent challenges from intense global competition and the emergence of alternative drive technologies. The market includes well-established multinational corporations and a growing number of manufacturers, particularly from the Asia-Pacific region, which often compete aggressively on price. This price pressure can squeeze profit margins for all players, potentially impacting investments in research and development for next-generation products. Moreover, in certain performance segments, ball screw modules face direct competition from linear motor-based systems. Linear motors offer advantages such as higher speeds, greater acceleration, and theoretically maintenance-free operation due to the absence of mechanical contact in the drive mechanism. For applications where ultra-high speed and acceleration are the paramount requirements, such as in certain packaging or electronic assembly tasks, linear motors are increasingly specified, posing a competitive threat to traditional ball screw solutions.

Other Challenges

Supply Chain Volatility and Raw Material Costs

The manufacturing of ball screw linear modules relies on high-quality materials such as specialty steels, precision-ground screws, and high-grade bearing balls. Fluctuations in the prices of these raw materials, often linked to global commodity markets and trade policies, can create significant cost instability for manufacturers. Furthermore, disruptions in the global supply chain, as witnessed in recent years, can lead to shortages of critical components like bearings or servo motors, delaying production and delivery schedules and affecting the ability to meet customer demand promptly.

Technical Limitations in Extreme Applications

While ball screws are highly versatile, they have inherent limitations in extreme operating conditions. In environments with high levels of dust, debris, or moisture, the recirculating ball bearings and screw threads can be susceptible to contamination, leading to increased wear, reduced accuracy, and potential failure. Although protective seals and covers are used, they add complexity and cost. Additionally, at very high continuous speeds, ball screws can experience issues with heat generation due to friction and the centrifugal forces on the recirculating balls, which can limit their maximum operational velocity compared to contact-free alternatives.

MARKET RESTRAINTS

High Initial Investment and Maintenance Requirements to Deter Cost-Sensitive Segments

The superior performance of ball screw linear modules comes with a higher initial cost compared to simpler linear motion solutions like belt drives or pneumatic cylinders. This higher capital expenditure can be a significant restraint, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises or for applications where the full precision and load capacity of a ball screw are not strictly necessary. The total cost of ownership extends beyond the purchase price; ball screw systems require periodic lubrication and maintenance to ensure long service life and maintain accuracy. Neglecting this maintenance can lead to premature wear, backlash, and eventual failure. For end-users in industries with tight operational budgets or those operating in remote locations with limited technical support, the prospect of ongoing maintenance and the risk of unscheduled downtime can make lower-cost, albeit less precise, alternatives more attractive, thereby restraining market penetration in certain segments.

Complex System Integration and Need for Technical Expertise to Hinder Adoption

Successfully integrating a ball screw linear module into a machine or automated system is not a trivial task. It requires careful consideration of factors such as load capacity, mounting orientation, speed and acceleration profiles, rigidity requirements, and compatibility with motors and controllers. Improper selection, mounting, or alignment can lead to suboptimal performance, excessive noise, vibration, and drastically reduced lifespan. This complexity necessitates a certain level of technical expertise from both the supplier and the end-user. The shortage of skilled engineers and technicians proficient in advanced motion control system design and integration can act as a barrier to adoption, especially for companies newly transitioning to automation. This reliance on specialist knowledge can slow down deployment cycles and increase the perceived risk and cost of implementing ball screw-based automation solutions.

Additionally, the lead times for custom-configured or high-precision modules can be lengthy, which may not align with the rapid prototyping and fast time-to-market demands of some industries, such as consumer electronics. This can sometimes push project designers towards more readily available, standardized components, even if they offer slightly lower performance.

MARKET OPPORTUNITIES

Rise of Collaborative Robotics and Compact Automation to Open New Application Avenues

The rapid growth of collaborative robots (cobots) and the demand for compact, flexible automation cells present a significant opportunity for innovation in the ball screw linear module market. Traditional industrial robots often use specialized actuators, but cobots and smaller delta-style robots frequently utilize compact, high-precision linear modules to create their axes of motion. There is a growing opportunity to develop lighter, more compact, and more efficient ball screw modules specifically designed for integration into these new robotic forms. Modules with lower inertia, integrated sensors for condition monitoring, and designs that facilitate easy mounting and alignment are particularly desirable. As cobots move beyond simple pick-and-place to more precise tasks like assembly, screwdriving, and testing, the demand for the repeatable accuracy provided by ball screws within these systems will increase, creating a high-value niche within the broader robotics market.

Integration of Smart Features and Predictive Maintenance Capabilities to Enhance Value Proposition

The convergence of operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT) in the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) landscape offers a transformative opportunity. Manufacturers can differentiate their ball screw linear modules by embedding sensors for vibration, temperature, and acoustic emission monitoring. This data, when fed into analytics platforms, can enable predictive maintenance models. Instead of relying on fixed maintenance schedules or reacting to failures, users can be alerted to signs of wear, lubrication needs, or misalignment before they cause downtime. This shift from a component to a smart, data-generating system significantly increases the value proposition for end-users by improving overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) and reducing unplanned stoppages. Early adopters who offer these integrated smart linear motion solutions can capture premium market segments, particularly in industries like semiconductor manufacturing and pharmaceuticals where downtime is extraordinarily costly.

Expansion into Emerging Economies and Green Technology Sectors to Drive Long-Term Growth

While mature markets continue to automate, the industrialization and manufacturing growth in emerging economies across Asia, Southeast Asia, and other regions represent a substantial long-term opportunity. As these regions build up their automotive, electronics, and general manufacturing bases, the demand for automation equipment and the precision components that enable it will rise correspondingly. Furthermore, the global focus on renewable energy and electric vehicles is creating new demand vectors. The production of lithium-ion batteries, solar panels, and fuel cells involves precise, clean, and often automated manufacturing processes. For example, battery electrode coating and stacking, or solar cell stringing and tabbing, require precise linear motion. Ball screw modules that are designed to operate in cleanroom-like environments or handle specific materials used in these green technologies can tap into these high-growth, future-oriented industries, ensuring market expansion beyond traditional industrial cycles.

Segment Analysis:

By Type

Single Axis Segment Dominates the Market Due to its Versatility and Cost-Effectiveness in Standard Automation

The market is segmented based on type into:

• Single Axis

  • Subtypes: Standard, Compact, and High-Precision variants

• Multiple Axis

  • Subtypes: Gantry systems, Cartesian robots, and XY/Z multi-axis configurations

By Application

Industrial Segment Leads Due to High Demand in Manufacturing and Assembly Automation

The market is segmented based on application into:

• Industrial

  • Sub-Applications: CNC machinery, pick-and-place systems, packaging, and material handling

• Medical Device

  • Sub-Applications: Diagnostic equipment, surgical robots, and laboratory automation

• Semiconductor & Electronics

• Others

  • Includes Aerospace, Automotive, and Research & Development

By Load Capacity

Medium Load Segment is Critical for Balancing Performance and Cost in Diverse Applications

The market is segmented based on load capacity into:

• Light Load

• Medium Load

• Heavy Load

By Sales Channel

Direct Sales Channel is Prominent for Customized Solutions and High-Volume OEM Contracts

The market is segmented based on sales channel into:

• Direct Sales

• Distributors & System Integrators

• Online Retail

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Key Industry Players

Technological Innovation and Global Expansion Define Market Leadership

The competitive landscape of the global ball screw linear module market is characterized by a semi-consolidated structure, featuring a mix of established multinational corporations, specialized medium-sized enterprises, and agile regional manufacturers. The market's growth is propelled by increasing automation across manufacturing and medical sectors, compelling companies to compete on precision, reliability, and integrated system solutions. While the global top five players collectively held a significant revenue share in 2025, the presence of numerous other competitors ensures a dynamic and innovation-driven environment.

Bosch Rexroth and THK Co., Ltd. are widely recognized as dominant forces in this space. Their leadership is anchored in decades of expertise in linear motion technology, comprehensive global distribution and service networks, and a broad portfolio that serves diverse industries from heavy industrial automation to delicate medical robotics. These companies benefit from substantial R&D investments, allowing them to pioneer advancements in high-speed, high-precision, and compact module designs that set industry standards.

Following closely, companies like Schaeffler Technologies AG & Co. KG (operating under the INA and FAG brands) and NTN-SNR leverage their deep-rooted heritage in bearing manufacturing to produce highly reliable and efficient ball screw linear modules. Their strength lies in vertical integration and mastery over the core rolling element technology, which translates into superior product longevity and performance. Meanwhile, players such as AVM Automation and Minitec have carved out strong positions by offering highly customizable and application-specific solutions, particularly appealing to OEMs and system integrators in the packaging, electronics assembly, and laboratory automation sectors.

The competitive intensity is further heightened by the rapid rise of manufacturers in the Asia-Pacific region, especially in China and Japan. Companies like Limtech (Beijing) Transmission Equipment Co., Ltd., Chengdu Fuyu Technology, and RYK are increasingly competing on the global stage by offering cost-competitive products without significant compromises on quality. Their growth strategies often involve aggressive pricing, rapid scaling of production capacity, and forging strong partnerships within the burgeoning Asian automation market. To sustain their advantage, leading players are actively engaging in strategic mergers and acquisitions, expanding their product lines to include direct-drive and belt-driven alternatives, and focusing on developing smart, IoT-enabled linear modules with predictive maintenance capabilities.

List of Key Ball Screw Linear Module Companies Profiled

• Bosch Rexroth AG (Germany)

• THK Co., Ltd. (Japan)

• Schaeffler Technologies AG & Co. KG (Germany)

• NTN-SNR (France)

• AVM Automation (Global)

• Dierre Group (Italy)

• Minitec (Switzerland)

• Nadella Group (Italy)

• LIMON (Turkey)

• Kinetic Systems, Inc. (U.S.)

• Limtech (Beijing) Transmission Equipment Co., Ltd. (China)

• Chengdu Fuyu Technology Co., Ltd. (China)

• VINKO (South Korea)

• RYK Automation Co., Ltd. (China)

• SAIBO (China)

BALL SCREW LINEAR MODULE MARKET TRENDS

Integration of Smart and IoT-Enabled Modules to Emerge as a Dominant Trend

The global Ball Screw Linear Module market is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by the accelerating adoption of Industry 4.0 and smart manufacturing principles. A central trend shaping this evolution is the integration of smart features and Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity into linear motion systems. While traditional modules provide reliable linear motion, the new generation incorporates embedded sensors, predictive maintenance algorithms, and real-time data communication capabilities. This shift is fundamentally because manufacturers are demanding higher levels of operational efficiency, reduced downtime, and seamless integration into digital factory ecosystems. For instance, modules equipped with vibration and temperature sensors can predict ball screw wear or lubrication failure, allowing for maintenance to be scheduled proactively rather than reactively. This capability is crucial in high-value production environments, such as semiconductor manufacturing or medical device assembly, where unplanned stoppages can result in losses exceeding tens of thousands of dollars per hour. Furthermore, the ability to feed performance data into a central Manufacturing Execution System (MES) enables holistic production optimization, making the linear module not just a mechanical component but a critical data node. This trend is supported by the broader growth of the industrial IoT market, which is projected to expand at a compound annual growth rate well into the double digits, thereby pulling demand for intelligent motion components along with it.

Other Trends

Demand for High-Precision and Miniaturization in Specialized Sectors

Parallel to the smart factory trend, there is a pronounced and growing demand for modules that offer exceptional precision and compact form factors. This is particularly evident in sectors like medical devices, electronics assembly, and optical instrumentation. In medical device manufacturing, for example, the drive for minimally invasive surgical tools and automated diagnostic equipment requires linear modules that can achieve positioning accuracy within microns while operating reliably in cleanroom environments. The market has responded with designs featuring low-particle-generation seals, corrosion-resistant materials, and backlash-free configurations. Similarly, the relentless miniaturization of consumer electronics, from smartphones to wearables, necessitates pick-and-place and testing equipment that can handle ever-smaller components with extreme speed and repeatability. This has catalyzed innovation in lightweight, high-acceleration single-axis modules, which are expected to see a robust CAGR in the coming years. The push for miniaturization also extends to the modules themselves, with manufacturers developing slimmer profiles and more integrated designs to save valuable space within increasingly dense machinery layouts.

Sustainability and Energy Efficiency as Key Purchase Drivers

Environmental sustainability and operational cost reduction are converging to make energy efficiency a paramount concern for end-users of automation equipment. This is directly influencing the ball screw linear module market, as these components are ubiquitous in machinery and their efficiency impacts overall system power consumption. Manufacturers are therefore focusing on reducing friction losses through advanced sealing technologies, optimized recirculation paths for the ball bearings, and the use of high-efficiency lubrication. The choice between ball screws and alternative drive technologies like linear motors is increasingly evaluated through a total cost of ownership lens, where energy consumption over the lifecycle of the machine is a critical factor. Furthermore, the use of recyclable materials and designs that facilitate easier disassembly at end-of-life is becoming a differentiator, especially in regions with stringent environmental regulations like Europe and North America. This trend is not merely regulatory; it is also economic, as energy costs constitute a significant portion of operational expenses in high-throughput manufacturing. Consequently, suppliers who can demonstrably lower the energy footprint of their linear modules are gaining a competitive edge in both new installations and retrofit markets.

Consolidation and Strategic Specialization Among Key Players

The competitive landscape of the ball screw linear module market is characterized by ongoing consolidation and a strategic shift towards application-specific solutions. While the global top five players hold a significant collective market share, the space includes numerous specialized manufacturers. To strengthen their portfolios and geographic reach, leading companies are actively pursuing mergers, acquisitions, and strategic partnerships. However, simply offering a broad catalog is no longer sufficient. The more impactful trend is the move towards providing complete, pre-engineered linear motion systems tailored for specific industries, such as packaging, laser processing, or laboratory automation. This approach reduces engineering time and risk for the machine builder, offering a plug-and-play solution. For example, a module designed for the packaging industry might come pre-configured with specific hygiene ratings, washdown protection, and speeds optimized for filling and cartoning lines. This specialization extends to software, with vendors providing configuration tools and simulation software specific to their module families. This trend benefits end-users by simplifying procurement and integration, while it allows suppliers to command higher value and build deeper, more sticky relationships with customers in vertical markets, moving beyond competing solely on the price per unit of a standard mechanical component.

Regional Analysis: Ball Screw Linear Module Market

North America

The North American market is characterized by a strong demand for high-precision automation driven by advanced manufacturing, particularly in the semiconductor, aerospace, and medical device sectors. The United States, estimated to hold a market size in the hundreds of millions of dollars in 2025, is the dominant force. Growth is propelled by significant investments in factory automation and robotics, supported by industrial policies and a focus on reshoring manufacturing capabilities. Major global players like Bosch Rexroth and THK have a substantial presence, competing with specialized suppliers to meet the demand for reliable, high-speed, and accurate linear motion solutions. The market is mature, with a strong emphasis on technological innovation and after-sales service. However, supply chain complexities and the need for continuous R&D to meet evolving application requirements present ongoing challenges for manufacturers and integrators.

Europe

Europe represents a sophisticated and steady market for ball screw linear modules, underpinned by a robust industrial base in Germany, Italy, and the Benelux countries. The region's strength lies in its high-value engineering and precision manufacturing, especially within the automotive, packaging, and machine tool industries. European manufacturers and end-users prioritize quality, durability, and energy efficiency, often specifying modules that meet stringent performance and safety standards. The competitive landscape includes both global giants like Schaeffler and regional specialists, fostering an environment of continuous product development. A key trend is the integration of linear modules into smart factory and Industry 4.0 ecosystems, demanding enhanced connectivity and data capabilities. While growth is consistent, it is tempered by economic headwinds and high labor costs, pushing automation as a strategic necessity rather than just an efficiency gain.

Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific is unequivocally the largest and fastest-growing regional market, both in terms of volume consumption and manufacturing output. China is the epicenter, projected to reach a market size comparable to the U.S., driven by its vast manufacturing sector and government initiatives like "Made in China 2025." The region benefits from a dense concentration of electronics, automotive, and general industrial production, which generates massive demand for affordable and reliable automation components. Local manufacturers, such as Limtech and Chengdu Fuyu Technology, compete aggressively on price and delivery, creating a highly dynamic and sometimes fragmented competitive environment. While cost sensitivity is high, there is a palpable shift towards higher-quality and more sophisticated modules as regional manufacturers move up the value chain. Japan and South Korea remain critical hubs for high-precision applications, contributing advanced technological expertise to the regional ecosystem.

South America

The South American market for ball screw linear modules is in a developing phase, with growth opportunities tied to the modernization of local industries in Brazil and Argentina. Demand is primarily fueled by sectors like food and beverage processing, mining, and agricultural machinery. However, the market's expansion is constrained by persistent economic volatility, which limits capital expenditure for advanced automation equipment. Import dependency is high, as local manufacturing of such precision components is limited, leading to longer lead times and higher costs. The competitive presence of global suppliers is less dense compared to other regions, often channeled through distributors. Market growth is therefore incremental, driven by specific industrial projects and the gradual recognition of automation's benefits for productivity, rather than by broad-based industrial policy or investment.

Middle East & Africa

This region represents an emerging market with niche but growing potential. Demand is concentrated in oil & gas, packaging, and infrastructure-related projects in nations like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Turkey, and Israel. The drive for economic diversification away from hydrocarbons in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries is creating pockets of demand for industrial automation in new manufacturing sectors. However, the overall market size remains small, hindered by a limited local industrial base, reliance on imports, and funding priorities that often favor large-scale infrastructure over precision manufacturing equipment. The market is served almost entirely by international distributors and a few direct sales offices of major global brands. Long-term growth potential exists, particularly as industrialization agendas advance, but it will likely follow a trajectory of slow, project-driven adoption rather than rapid, widespread market penetration.

Ball Screw Linear Module Market Research Report

Report Scope

This market research report offers a holistic overview of global and regional markets for the forecast period 2025–2032. It presents accurate and actionable insights based on a blend of primary and secondary research.

Key Coverage Areas:

• ✅ Market Overview

  • Global and regional market size (historical & forecast)

  • Growth trends and value/volume projections

• ✅ Segmentation Analysis

  • By product type or category

  • By application or usage area

  • By end-user industry

  • By distribution channel (if applicable)

• ✅ Regional Insights

  • North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East & Africa

  • Country-level data for key markets

• ✅ Competitive Landscape

  • Company profiles and market share analysis

  • Key strategies: M&A, partnerships, expansions

  • Product portfolio and pricing strategies

• ✅ Technology & Innovation

  • Emerging technologies and R&D trends

  • Automation, digitalization, sustainability initiatives

  • Impact of AI, IoT, or other disruptors (where applicable)

• ✅ Market Dynamics

  • Key drivers supporting market growth

  • Restraints and potential risk factors

  • Supply chain trends and challenges

• ✅ Opportunities & Recommendations

  • High-growth segments

  • Investment hotspots

  • Strategic suggestions for stakeholders

• ✅ Stakeholder Insights

  • Target audience includes manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, investors, regulators, and policymakers

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

What is the current market size of the Global Ball Screw Linear Module Market?

-> The global ball screw linear module market was valued at USD 1.85 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 2.75 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 5.1% from 2025 to 2032.

Which key companies operate in the Global Ball Screw Linear Module Market?

-> Key players include Bosch Rexroth, THK, Schaeffler Technologies AG & Co. KG, NTN-SNR, and AVM Automation, among others. The global top five players held a market share of approximately 45% in 2024.

What are the key growth drivers?

-> Key growth drivers include the rapid expansion of industrial automation, increasing adoption in medical devices and semiconductor manufacturing, and government initiatives like Industry 4.0 and Made in China 2025.

Which region dominates the market?

-> Asia-Pacific is the dominant and fastest-growing region, accounting for over 50% of global demand in 2024, driven by China, Japan, and South Korea.

What are the emerging trends?

-> Emerging trends include the integration of smart sensors and IoT for predictive maintenance, development of compact and high-speed modules, and a focus on energy-efficient designs to meet sustainability goals.