As the energy sector and global trade undergo a profound transformation, companies that not only observe but actively shape these changes take the lead. Nynas, placing sustainability and energy transition at the heart of its growth strategy, is already paving the way for a carbon-neutral future with its bio-based and recyclable product portfolio.
By embracing the principles of a circular economy through its long-lasting and energy-efficient formulations, Nynas has established itself as a frontrunner in sustainability. This commitment is further validated by the Gold Sustainability rating awarded by EcoVadis. More than meeting today’s expectations, Nynas proactively sets new standards for the future, empowering its customers on their sustainability journeys while contributing to the well-being of the planet.
We had the opportunity to speak with Güney Devrim İldiri, General Manager of Nynas Türkiye and Central Asia, about the company’s approach to sustainability and energy transformation, the concrete steps it has taken, and its broader vision for the future. With his extensive technical expertise, experience, solution-oriented and holistic perspective, İldiri shares invaluable insights on corporate transformation, sustainability ambitions, and the evolving energy landscape, offering inspiration for industry professionals and stakeholders.
As Nynas, how do you approach sustainability and energy transformation?
As a well-established player in the energy sector, we view sustainability not only as an environmental responsibility but also as a key driver of strategic growth. At Nynas, rather than producing fuel, we focus on deriving long-lasting and reusable products from oil—an approach that forms the foundation for innovative solutions supporting the energy transition. Today, energy security, competitiveness, and sustainability are deeply interconnected and must be addressed collectively. In line with this reality, we are expanding our investments and prioritizing bio-based and circular production systems to fulfill our ambition of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. This commitment is not just a long-term vision; it shapes our investment strategies and operational processes.
How do Nynas’ products contribute to customers’ sustainability journeys?
When considering oil, sustainability might not be the first thing that comes to mind. After all, millions of barrels of oil are used daily, with much of it lost in consumption. But at Nynas, we take a distinctly different approach. While we do use oil, a finite resource, we don’t produce fuel. Instead, we develop long-lasting, sustainable products. Our commitment to bio-based sustainability is embedded in everything we do, from investment decisions to day-to-day operations. As part of our new strategy, we are taking decisive steps toward reducing emissions by 2030 and achieving full climate neutrality by 2050. These efforts include a broad spectrum of initiatives, such as the introduction of bio-based and re-refined specialty products.
NYTRO BIO 300X, a standout innovation in our product portfolio, is the result of years of intensive research. This 100% renewable and biodegradable insulating fluid delivers exceptional cooling performance, thanks to its ultra-low viscosity. Another pioneering solution, NYTRO® RR 900X, exemplifies Nynas’ circular production model. With its advanced refining technology, this premium transformer fluid reduces greenhouse gas emissions by at least 70% over its lifetime compared to virgin transformer oil. Beyond resource efficiency, NYTRO® RR 900X marks a breakthrough in environmental sustainability, making a significant contribution to carbon reduction efforts.
Each new solution in our product portfolio reflects our commitment to minimizing environmental impact. For instance;
- NYTRO BIO 300X – A 100% renewable and biodegradable insulating fluid. With its ultra-low viscosity and superior oxidation stability, it is suitable for all transformer types.
- NYTRO RR 900X – A premium recycled transformer fluid embodying Nynas’ circular economy approach, delivering up to 70% lower greenhouse gas emissions throughout its lifecycle.
Beyond technical excellence, these innovations play a pivotal role in advancing our customers’ sustainability strategies.
Nynas Is commItted to reducIng Its emIssIons by 2030 and achIevIng full clImate neutralIty by 2050. WIth Its portfolIo of long-lastIng, bIo-based, and re-refIned specIalty products, the company Is progressIng well beyond Industry standards.
In recent years, the role of sustainability and energy transformation consultants in company boards has increased. What is the importance of this issue in preparing companies for the future and internalizing sustainability practices?
Today, boards of directors are more crucial than ever for companies navigating industry changes. In sectors experiencing intense transformation pressures, such as energy, businesses must go beyond implementation and actively shape sustainability-driven, innovation-focused strategies. This requires visionary leadership, technical expertise, and a deep commitment to sustainability.
However, many boards still lack the necessary competencies to guide energy transformation effectively. Since this shift affects not only the company but its entire stakeholder ecosystem, governance structures must be reconsidered. Boards should incorporate specialized consultants in energy, climate, and sustainability to ensure informed decision-making and long-term resilience.
Moreover, sustainability efforts must extend beyond internal initiatives. Success in transformation depends on collaboration across a broad stakeholder network, from suppliers to business partners, to foster innovative solutions and energy-efficient projects. Preparing for the future requires accurately assessing present challenges, identifying risks early, and proactively seizing opportunities through strategic partnerships. Boards of directors must act as the driving force behind this transition.
AccordIng to General Manager İldiri, energy transformatIon Is a specIalIzed fIeld that demands InnovatIve solutIons and effIcIency-drIven projects, ImpactIng the entIre stakeholder ecosystem. Therefore, İldiri emphasIzes that company boards of dIrectors should seek expert consultancy on sustaInabIlIty and energy transformatIon.
Based on your professional and academic experience, how do you assess the transformation in the industry and the lubricants sector? How is global change shaping business practices?
The economic and geopolitical fluctuations unfolding on a global scale are influencing not only financial indicators but also corporate governance dynamics. Inflationary pressures, supply chain disruptions, energy security concerns, and geopolitical uncertainties are challenging traditional business models and driving companies toward more flexible, adaptive, and multi-layered decision-making structures.
At the core of this transformation is the distributed leadership approach, replacing centralized structures with competency-driven teams that share responsibility and possess high strategic foresight. This shift is not merely a change in management models; it represents a fundamental transformation in corporate mindset, where leadership is no longer confined to top executives but is distributed across various organizational levels.
At Nynas, we do not simply follow this transformation; we actively shape it. Our multi-centered leadership models extend beyond product development and R&D into our internal organizational framework. By integrating technical expertise with field knowledge, we balance operational flexibility and strategic foresight, ensuring resilience against today’s risks while proactively managing future opportunities.
Driving transformation in the energy sector requires more than technological investments; it demands a cultural and structural shift within organizations. At Nynas, we embrace this vision, building a leadership model that strengthens our organizational agility and positions us for long-term success.
Güney Devrim İldiri emphasIzes that decIsIon-makIng power Is shared across varIous layers of the company, alIgnIng wIth the prIncIples of “dIstrIbuted leadershIp”. Nynas’ organIzatIonal agIlIty Is drIven by adaptIve, multI-layered decIsIon-makIng processes, ensurIng responsIveness and effIcIency In an ever-evolvIng busıness landscape.
What are the priority areas that Nynas aims to achieve both environmentally and commercially under its 2025 targets?
At Nynas, our 2025 vision is built on development rather than growth, allowing us to focus not only on quantitative targets but also on achieving a qualified and sustainable transformation. To realize this vision, we have identified three key priorities: Taking concrete action against climate change is not just a sectoral obligation but a core pillar of our corporate identity. With this commitment, we aim to reduce our carbon emissions by 40% by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions across all operations by 2050.
Our strategy encompasses a comprehensive transformation that extends beyond production, integrating sustainability across our entire value chain from raw material sourcing to logistics, as well as the full life cycle impact of our products. To accelerate this transition, we are investing in energy efficiency at our production facilities and expanding our use of renewable energy sources.
This multi-layered approach not only minimizes emissions but also supports our customers in achieving their sustainability goals by offering low-carbon solutions. At Nynas, we are not simply adapting our business model to environmental standards, we are building a value-driven system that puts sustainability first.
Our Gold Sustainability rating from EcoVadis reflects our dedication, but we are determined to push this standard even higher. In collaboration with our suppliers and business partners, we are working to embed sustainability at every stage of the value chain, developing environmentally friendly production and distribution models. Our holistic sustainability approach encompasses environmental responsibility, social impact, and governance excellence, ensuring that our corporate structure meets today’s expectations as well as tomorrow’s standards.
Nynas Expands Its Bio-Based and Recyclable Product Portfolio
Committed to its sustainability goals, Nynas is steadily advancing its product portfolio, offering innovative solutions that align with environmental priorities. By expanding the reach of its EVO series, BIO-based, and RR series products, Nynas delivers high-performance, low-impact solutions that contribute directly to its customers’ sustainability efforts.
EVO Series: Pioneering Solutions for a Lower Carbon Footprint
The EVO Series encompasses products across all Nynas’ specialized segments, designed to reduce carbon footprint by 25%. Made from raw materials derived from biological waste, these products are ISCC Plus certified. Maintaining the same high standards and performance levels as existing products, EVO Series solutions integrate seamlessly into applications without requiring any adjustments.
BIO-Based Products: Superior Performance from Renewable Resources
NYTRO BIO 300X: A 100% renewable transformer oil that delivers exceptional performance and biodegradability. Exceeding IEC 60296 standards, it offers industry-leading cooling properties, maintaining winding temperatures 10K lower than traditional mineral oils.
NYTEX BIO 6200: A high-quality, renewable tire and rubber oil that offers high quality and high performance. It is designed for optimal compatibility with natural rubber, E-SBR, S-SBR, and f-S-SBR formulations. Fully compliant with current regulations, it provides a sustainable solution for the future.
RR Series: Products Developed with a Circular Economy Approach
NYTRO RR 900X: Developed using cutting-edge re-refining technology, this high-performance transformer oil not only preserves but enhances the dielectric properties of traditional naphthenic liquids. Fully compliant with IEC 60296 standards, it delivers a minimum 70% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions throughout its lifecycle.
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