With the world’s spotlight very much on climate change and sustainability, Wolfgang Gorner MD of Hörmann UK discusses how the Hörmann Group are reinforcing their commitment to climate protection in 2021. As a fourth-generation family owned and run business, Hörmann have always taken their social and environmental responsibility seriously. The objective of successive generations has been to hand over a sound business, not only financially but also in terms of a business that does not jeopardise the future of generations to come.
Over the years Hörmann has been at the forefront of climate protection, introducing sustainable strategies and manufacturing processes, and working to a three-step climate protection strategy – CO2 calculation, reduction and offset.
In 2020, the focus was on calculating CO2 levels and its reduction. By the end of the year CO2 levels had been calculated and zero tonnes of CO2 achieved in all German manufacturing locations, mainly due to the use of 100% green energy. Further measures such as the commissioning of combined heat and power plants at manufacturing sites, the creation of a solar farm, switching to GoGreen shipping featuring optimised transport routes, alternative vehicles, and energy-efficient warehouses, all add to the Group’s effort and commitment.
2021 will see the implementation of the third step – CO2 compensation and offset. Hörmann will work in collaboration with ClimatePartner, who implement environmental protection strategies and offset CO2 emissions through climate protection projects. Three offset projects have been selected – two wind energy projects in India and a re-forestation in Uruguay.
From March a climate-neutral logo will be applied to all products and by using a QR code, Hörmann customers will be able to find out about the compensation project and how much CO2 has been offset.
With recent UK Government announcements regarding ambitious emission reduction targets and a target to obtain net-zero emissions by 2050, climate change and its impact remain will high on the agenda, with the ability of business to react and adapt being crucial.
In 2015, we installed 220 kW of solar PV (847 panels) on the roof of our warehouse at our UK headquarters in Coalville. In summer, up to 100% of the power required to run our site is generated from the solar panels, with any additional power generated being sent back to the grid. In a year we generate around 180,000 kWh’s of electricity – enough energy to supply the average family home in the UK for 38 years. We also have energy monitoring and control systems in place that enable us to make real time changes to our consumption.
A move to hybrid company vehicles, with solar powered charging points being installed in the car park at Coalville, is a further commitment to reduce our carbon footprint. Stringent environmental policies resulting in 98% of the waste produced in the UK being recycled and even the planned replacement of our printed dealer price list with a digital, interactive version strengthens our green credentials.
Our commitment to the environment has always been a keystone in the design and development of our product range, leading the market in the supply of thermally efficient doors which carry an individual u-Value allowing customers to design-in improved thermal performance into their projects. Work continues to research and develop new materials and processes to further improve thermal efficiency and safeguard future generations.
The future inclusion of suppliers and the engagement of staff is planned with the aim of encouraging everyone to do their part, ensuring that whilst Hörmann remain at the forefront for the supply of quality door products our footprint is light.
To find out how Hörmann visit www.hormann.co.uk or call 01530 516868
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