We are aware of the importance of climate protection
We also understand the urgency of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and consider it our duty to take active steps in this regard. Therefore, it goes without saying that we are engaged in the “Race to Zero” campaign. Our ultimate aim is to achieve climate neutrality by 2040 and bring down our emissions of climate-detrimental greenhouse gases to net-zero. However, our interim goal is to cut emissions in half by 2030. To ensure the achievement of these objectives, we have devised a comprehensive environmental program that incorporates a range of measures. For some time now, we have been relying on electricity generated from renewable energy sources such as photovoltaics. Additionally, we have already converted the majority of our vehicle fleet to electric vehicles. To increase the energy efficiency of our production processes and machinery, we also focus on digitization and automation, constantly searching for suitable retrofit solutions. Furthermore, we have implemented intelligent heating control systems to further enhance thermal efficiency. In the future, the sustainable treatment of the environment will be a factor in the selection of our suppliers and crucial for decisions regarding future collaborations. We also aim to encourage and support our customers and suppliers to participate in this campaign and take measures for active climate protection.
In addition to these far-reaching measures, we have developed and implemented a comprehensive environmental program. This program includes, among other things, the sensible separation of our waste to achieve a higher degree of reusability and recyclability. Through a thorough examination of waste streams following the Input-Output Principle, we aim to improve our delivery and pickup routes and promote the use of reusable packaging between production and suppliers.
Furthermore, we have initiated a “Bike to Work” program for our employees and encourage carpooling. Our production processes are optimized to operate solely on a closed cooling circuit for our production facilities. Sustainability and environmental protection are not empty buzzwords for us; they are vital and indispensable factors throughout our company. We place great importance on fostering an increasing awareness of these issues and their urgency among our employees. Our belief in community and solidarity also comes into play, as together, we can truly make a difference and drive change. At 4a Group, we take pride in making a significant contribution in this regard.
3 Pillar Program for Our Green Footprint
Reduction of Own Emissions
- Electricity generation from renewable energy sources for production, storage, and office facilities
- Fleet transition to electric vehicles
- Enhanced energy efficiency through digital automation and retrofitting
- Improvement of energy efficiency in production processes and machinery
- Enhancement of thermal efficiency through the implementation of intelligent heating control systems
Reduction of Emissions Across Our Value Chain (Supplier Chain)
- Integration of the 1.5°C target in our annual supplier questionnaire and supplier evaluation
- Encouraging our suppliers to set goals and take actions to participate in the “Race to Zero” campaign
- Supporting our suppliers in implementing emission reduction initiatives
Climate as part of our strategy and policy
- Integration of the 1.5°C and Net Zero targets into our vision
- Climate as a key player at the highest level in the board, strategy, business development, and product management
- Integration of the climate strategy into our products and project roadmaps
Comprehensive Environmental Program
Waste material analysis and optimization of existing separation systems
In addition to these extensive measures, we have developed and implemented a general environmental program. This program includes, among other things, the proper separation of our waste to achieve a higher degree of reusability and recyclability. By analyzing the waste streams based on the input-output principle, we strive to minimize our commercial waste. We use reusable packaging for movements of goods between production and suppliers, and we try to avoid single-use packaging materials such as stretch films, bubble wraps, and cardboard boxes as much as possible. This not only allows us to reduce our share of commercial waste but also encourages our customers and suppliers to do the same. Additionally, we focus on correct waste separation and strictly adhere to relevant guidelines and recommendations.
Optimization of packaging methods regarding space utilization
We optimize our packaging methods to maximize space utilization throughout the entire transportation chain and avoid oversized packaging. This optimization applies not only to our existing products but is also considered and adjusted when introducing new products.
Optimization of delivery and pickup routes
We aim to minimize unnecessary distances and empty kilometers in our delivery and pickup routes. We plan these routes in a way that allows for combination with other transports or trips. In doing so, we contribute to reducing global greenhouse gas emissions.
Deployment of photovoltaic systems on rooftops
By using photovoltaic systems on our roof surfaces, we rely on renewable energy sources and make a valuable contribution to greenhouse gas reduction. Moreover, we increase our self-sufficiency and can redirect the cost savings to other environmentally focused projects.
Ongoing transition of fleet vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs)
Our goal is to gradually convert our entire vehicle fleet to electric vehicles to avoid fossil fuels and improve the climate. We focus on long-term cost savings and increased independence from fluctuating fuel prices.
Continuous updating of building technology to state-of-the-art, preventing surface sealing.
In the field of building technology, our core objective is to reduce electricity and heat consumption, significantly improving our CO2 balance and getting closer to our shared goal of “Race to Zero” step by step. To save more water and costs, we have converted our double-belt press from an open to a closed cooling circuit. Furthermore, we avoid surface sealing as much as possible to counteract climate change. By monitoring our Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), we can track our goals and their progress and make adjustments if necessary.
Collection system for copier and printer toner to support the Austrian Cancer Aid
We have established a collection system for photocopier and printer toners to support the Austrian Cancer Aid organization. By bypassing regular disposal methods for old toners, we not only reduce waste but also contribute to a charitable cause.