Ecolab Inc. has posted strong first-quarter 2026 results, showing adjusted earnings per share of $1.70, a 13.3% year-over-year rise, alongside total revenues of $4.07 billion, up 10%. The company has provided a positive outlook for the second quarter, anticipating adjusted EPS between $2.02 and $2.12, a projected increase of 7% to 12% from last year. However, Ecolab's total debt rose to $8.49 billion from $8.24 billion, highlighting ongoing financial challenges even as it works towards a 20% operating income margin by 2027.