Construction company Chrysos operations manager has urged that organisations and companies be more responsible towards the environment and workers
According to Andries Marais, general manager of operations at Chryso Southern Africa, in order to create a sustainable future for Earth’s inhabitants, it is critical that organisations contribute positively to the preservation of non-renewable resources.
Marais suggests organisations allocate a predetermined percentage of turnover for research and development into products that focus on energy reduction in their manufacturing process. The Chryso Group invests approximately four per cent of all global sales in the investigation of green product innovations that are based on bio sourcing, renewable resources and biodegradability principles.
The goal is to emphasise product lines that assist customers in promoting their energy efficiency while simultaneously reducing their carbon footprint. Marais said that an ongoing review of Chryso’s existing product portfolio and a customer needs analysis results in the development of approximately 30 new Chryso products each year with an average of 12 product patents filed annually.
Marais suggests organisations take a critical look at the way in which they operate their processing and manufacturing plants to ascertain how they handle natural resources. He cited the Chryso Group’s Green Factory Model which has been adopted by the Cape Town, Durban and Jet Park plants. Careful thought has been given to a wastewater management system, a rainwater catchment programme and a sludge waste management system to minimise negative environmental impact.
In addition, Chryso places great emphasis on the use of non-hazardous materials and the implementation of recycling initiatives. Marais said that companies should consider demarcating a specific area in their facility where collection bins for glass, paper, plastic, metal and wood are placed and employees are encouraged to participate. The recycling initiative is echoed in Chryso’s use of recycled packaging wherever possible and bulk deliveries of products to maximise load capacities and reduce the use of non-renewable fuel resources.
