Rawlplug S A : We collect, we segregate, we educate. How do we reduce the amount of waste at Rawlplug?

We collect, we segregate, we educate. How do we reduce the amount of waste at Rawlplug? Oct 31, 2022

One of Rawlplug's strategic sustainability goals is responsible consumption and production. Our aim is to work entirely in a closed-loop, circular manner, which is why we are introducing a number of measures to reduce the amount of waste generated and to make sure it can be reused.

The circular economy model assumes that raw materials, other materials and finished products are used for as long and as many times as possible. At the same time, the waste generated from production should be managed well and either reused or kept to a minimum. At Rawlplug, we operate in line with ESG principles, and consequently our strategy takes into account three elements: environment, society, and corporate governance. Aiming to put the ESG values into practice and to close the consumption and production loop, we have implemented a number of improvements allowing us to reduce every year the amount of waste generated.

• Waste baling

Balers are professional automated devices that significantly reduce the volume of waste by compacting it into bales. These machines can handle cardboard boxes, plastic film, expanded polystyrene, as well as organic waste, among other things. Earlier, there were four balers in operation at Rawlplug's main plant; now, there are seven. More devices ensure a faster and even more efficient waste volume reduction process. The purchase of new balers has also reduced the frequency of waste collection for disposal. The most important thing, however, is that waste compacted by balers is 100% recyclable, and so we can reuse it.

• Reuse of industrial wipers

Industrial wipers used for instance for wiping machines as well as filter materials will not be thrown away, but washed and reused. This will reduce the amount of waste generated during production and, in line with the closed loop idea, make it possible to keep using the raw materials we purchase for as long as possible.

• Conscientious waste segregation across the plant

Waste segregation is mandatory for all Rawlplug branches. Since 2021, we have been training employees in this respect and performing periodic quality checks of the segregation quality. Parameters such as the type of waste, its quantity, location and reason for its generation are reviewed. To make waste segregation easier and more efficient on the shop floor, new, easy-to-read bin labels with extensive information have been introduced. In this manner, production workers who deal with large amounts of waste on a daily basis can quickly find the right container and put waste such cardboard boxes, film or propylene tape there.

• E-waste collection campaign

Not all waste can go into the bins intended for "traditional" segregation. Electrical and electronic equipment contains substances that are harmful to health, such as CFCs, mercury, asbestos or cadmium, which is why the law prohibits the disposal of so-called e-waste in regular bins. In order to make it easier for our employees to dispose of used electrical and electronic equipment, Rawlplug participates in various initiatives to address the problem. In October 2022, we joined the "(Prze)tworzymy to razem" ("Recycling & Creating Together") competition organised by the Biosystem Group. In accordance with the competition rules, every kilogram of e-waste collected was exchanged for 1 Polish zloty. The money raised in this manner was donated to a foundation supporting environmental activities. You can read more about the competition and about the details of the e-waste collection campaign [here].

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