A Conversation with Amanda Cimaglia: Building a Resilient Future

James Hardie recently released its annual sustainability report entitled Building a Resilient Future. In it, the company highlights its leadership in designing and manufacturing long-lasting, resilient products, progress in circularity and decarbonization, commitment to supporting stronger and more resilient communities, and continued work to further embed sustainability and accountability across the business. 

It includes a Q&A with Amanda Cimaglia, SVP of Corporate Affairs, Communications and Sustainability. Leading Sustainability since July 2025 following the acquisition of The AZEK Company, Amanda is responsible for overseeing James Hardie’s global sustainability strategy, including climate, decarbonization, circularity and social impact initiatives. 

Following the acquisition of AZEK, what excites you most about the two companies coming together? 

The combination of James Hardie and AZEK brings together two purpose-driven companies with complementary strengths, iconic brands and a shared focus on innovation, durability and sustainability. What excites me most is the opportunity to create a more unified approach to resilient exterior solutions — combining James Hardie’s leadership in fiber cement with AZEK’s expertise in recycled materials and outdoor living to help homeowners build more beautiful, durable and climate-resilient homes. 

How does the combined organization’s scale enhance your ability to drive global sustainability impact?

We have an incredible opportunity to accelerate impact faster than either company could independently. By harnessing our collective strengths, manufacturing footprint, innovation capabilities and recycling infrastructure, we can advance sustainability leadership across both our fiber cement and outdoor living businesses while setting a new standard for the industry. 

How are you ensuring that sustainability is not a parallel initiative but fully embedded within the company’s broader global business strategy? 

We view sustainability as a business strategy — not a standalone initiative. Our approach is focused on embedding sustainability into how we innovate, operate, manage risk and create long-term value. Our OneHardie™ sustainability strategy, goals and ambitions are integrated into core business functions, operational reviews, product development, and capital planning so that environmental and business performance advance together. 

What is your future vision for sustainability at James Hardie?

Looking ahead, James Hardie has an opportunity to redefine what leadership looks like in the built environment — advancing circularity, accelerating decarbonization and scaling resilient product innovation across our portfolio. We also recognize the important role our products and partnerships can play in supporting stronger, more resilient communities, through disaster recovery, affordable housing and long-term community partnerships that align with our purpose of Building a Better Future for All™, particularly in regions increasingly impacted by wildfire and severe weather. Most importantly, we want sustainability to continue serving as a driver of innovation, growth and long-term value creation across the business. 

To read the full fiscal year 2026 sustainability report, visit: Sustainability Initiatives