Clean Harbors' Q4 2024 Earnings: A Strong Finish to a Record Year

Clean Harbors, Inc. (NYSE: CLH), the leading provider of environmental and industrial services throughout North America, announced its financial results for the fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2024. The company's strong performance was driven by its Environmental Services (ES) segment, which capped a record 2024 with robust growth and margin expansion.

The ES segment achieved a 9% growth in revenue and 11% growth in Adjusted EBITDA in the fourth quarter of 2024. The segment's Adjusted EBITDA margin increased by 50 basis points, reflecting the continued profitable growth trend. Top-line growth was led by Field Services operations, which saw a 47% increase in revenue, driven by the acquisition of HEPACO and healthy organic growth in the legacy business. Technical Services revenue grew by 8% on strength in the network, while incineration utilization reached an outstanding 94% for the quarter. Safety-Kleen Environmental Services delivered 6% revenue growth in the ES segment.



For the full year 2024, Clean Harbors' revenues increased by 9% to $5.89 billion, with income from operations growing by 9% to $670.2 million. Net income was $402.3 million, or $7.42 per diluted share, compared to $377.9 million, or $6.95 per diluted share, in 2023. Adjusted EBITDA grew by 10% to $1.12 billion, and the company generated adjusted free cash flow of $357.9 million, up from $321.9 million in 2023.

The company's strong financial performance was accompanied by significant operational milestones, including the achievement of a Total Recordable Incident Rate (TRIR) of 0.65, the completion and commercial launch of its state-of-the-art incinerator in Kimball, Nebraska, and the acquisitions of HEPACO and Noble Oil. Additionally, Clean Harbors expanded its Baltimore Hub, introduced its Total PFAS Solution, and formed a partnership with Castrol for its MoreCircular offering.

Looking ahead, Clean Harbors provided full-year 2025 guidance for Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted Free Cash Flow. The company's strong performance in 2024, driven by the growth and margin expansion in its ES segment, positions it well to continue its leading role in the environmental and industrial services industry throughout North America.

In conclusion, Clean Harbors' Q4 2024 earnings reflect a strong finish to a record year, with the Environmental Services segment driving growth and margin expansion. The company's operational milestones and strategic initiatives, such as the Kimball, Nebraska incinerator and the acquisitions of HEPACO and Noble Oil, further solidify its market position and set the stage for continued success in 2025.