Environment Material and waste management In the reporting year, the total waste volume generated at our sites amounted to 57,007 tonnes, of which only 847 tonnes (1.5 %) was hazardous waste such as old varnish and paints, solvent-based products, emulsions and grease. These are processed by certified waste disposal contractors using chemical and physical treatment methods and we endeavour to have them professionally recycled where possible. All hazardous waste is collected and transported in suitable containers. We also provide regular information on waste management. For example, the collection bins for non-commercial waste have QR codes on them that take users to a web page with key pointers for separating waste correctly and details of who to contact in the case of waste management enquiries at the respective site. Waste collection arrangements differ depending on the type of waste and the disposal partner, with some waste collected at regular intervals and other waste collected on demand. We regularly evaluate and adjust these collection schedules and also the size of the waste collection containers in order to minimise the number of transport journeys in line with our waste management strategy. At our Austrian sites, we also transport waste by rail where possible, especially in the case of large volumes. ➔ GRI 306-3 In total, more than 96.5 % of the total waste volume across our sites is recycled and fed back into the circular economy, while only 1.9 % is converted into energy through combustion. ➔ GRI 306-4, GRI 306-5 Summary: As this data confirms, our waste management system applies the principles of the waste management hierarchy in full. Total waste volume in tonnes 2023 / 2024 2024 / 2025 Total in t 55,626 57,007 of which sent for recycling 96.5 % 96.5 % of which burnt for thermal energy recovery (waste to energy) 1.9 % 1.9 % of which chemically / physically treated liquid waste prior to disposal / discharge 1.1 % 1.2 % of which incinerated 0 % 0 % of which sent to landfill 0.3 % 0.3 % Although progress may not always be linear, we strive to be better today than we were yesterday. Our strategy is founded on this philosophy of continuous improvement, which helps us shape a better future. Thomas Hallman, Sustainability Management, Blum USA 49
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy