better together for a cleaner world: we continuously strive to use fewer materials, cut energy consumption and reduce waste.
Bekaert’s concern for the environment is applied in various aspects: First, we seek to develop new, eco-friendlier production processes for our plants worldwide. In 2014, we finalized the ‘New Environmental Technologies’ project. The aim was to acquire knowledge and expertise in environmental technologies and thereby boost the environmental performance of plants worldwide. Cost-effective solutions were developed for all major waste aspects. Practical solutions include the recuperation of rinsing waters in the production process and the conceptual design of a zero liquid discharge project. The purpose is to run the plants without the need to discharge industrial waste water to the public sewer systems.
Secondly, prevention and risk management play an important role in Bekaert’s environmental policy. In 2014, we updated our procedures for the prevention of soil contamination. Through self-assessments, internal audits and best practice sharing between plants, an action plan was defined in 2014 and will be implemented in the course of 2015.
Responsible use of water is also a priority. Programs that aim to reduce water usage in the long term were established and focus on getting a clear view of our water balance.
In 2014, 95 % of our consolidated plants worldwide were ISO 14001 certified. Bekaert’s full worldwide certification is an ongoing goal; it is an element in the integration process of newly acquired entities and of companies that are added to the consolidation perimeter. Bekaert also received a group-wide certification for ISO 14001 and ISO 9001.
Lastly, Bekaert develops products that contribute to a cleaner environment. Ecology is an aspect that is considered starting from the R&D phase of new products. In many cases, it is even a driving factor in product development.