Several years ago, we set ourselves the goal of reducing our CO2 emissions so they would have minimal impact on our climate and our planet. In order to find out just how much CO2 we needed to cut back, we commissioned an independent audit from Ecofys (http://www.ecofys.com/) to measure our CO2 emissions for us.
Unsurprisingly it was found that our production unit (including administration, transport, packaging etc.) was the source of most CO2 emissions and it was therefore logical that it should be this area where the greatest efficiencies and cut backs should be introduced first. Especially since reductions in CO2 emissions at this stage in the soya processing chain can be relatively easily measured, monitored and controlled.
STEP 1: Saving energy
Quite obviously the greenest energy is the energy that isn’t used at all. Energy savings were therefore necessary and were achieved at every stage of the production process.
For instance, the production of sterile water no longer occurs through the energy-intensive condensation of steam but by using specially designed kettles. The residual heat from this process is reused as much as possible in other sections of the production process and also to heat the offices.
STEP 2: Replacing fossil fuels with renewable energy
The burning of fossil fuels generates CO2 which is released into the atmosphere. It therefore made eminent sense to replace fossil fuels with renewable energy sources wherever possible.
Provamel installed solar panels on the roof of the porter’s lodge in Wevelgem and is actively investigating the feasibility of installing a wind turbine at our factory in Kettering. We also make smart (re)use of biogas, a natural by-product of our water purification system. This biogas is then diverted to and used in a bio-generator to produce ‘green’ electricity.
STEP 3: Supporting external CO2 reducing projects
CO2 emission are a natural byproduct of everyday 21st century life. Everyone causes them and pretty much every thing we use produces them at some time in their lifecycle, from newspapers to the clothes we wear. Unfortunately, entirely neutral CO2 production is (still) impossible. However there are ways of offsetting and compensating for it.
At Provamel we are making up for the small amounts of CO2 we do continue to emit during manufacturing by investing in external projects - Carbon offsetting.
Together with Pure (http://www.puretrust.org.uk/) who are internationally recognized for their work in carbon offsetting, we are helping to finance a wind farm in China and in doing so are helping to promote a healthier environment and lifestyle for those at particular risk from pollution.
In this way we are taking action for the future of the planet and the people living on it.
