We update our blog with an interview with Alberto Cea, the group’s Environmental Technician and head of one of the fundamental pillars of sustainability at Castrosua: the environmental aspect. He tells us how our company is becoming greener every day and how we are working to get closer and closer to zero waste.
1. What specific objectives does the Sustainability Committee have in the short, medium, and long term?
We have differentiated actions in the environmental, social, and governance areas. The circularity of the materials used and the reduction of the environmental impact of our processes are fundamental in the short and medium term, as is the development of stable employment and the stimulation of the local economy. In the long term, we would enter into strategic projects aligned with our objectives that allow us to respond to the sustainable needs of our society.
- What measures has Castrosua implemented to reduce its carbon footprint in production processes?
Currently, the electricity purchased for our activity is 100% renewable. Years ago, the paint booths were converted to use natural gas burners, which are more efficient and sustainable.
In addition, periodic energy consumption audits are carried out in our production centers, so that actions are taken to identify improvement opportunities and understand their economic return.
Another priority line of work is to promote alternatives that favor the circular economy to minimize the impact of our products on the planet.
- Have indicators been established to measure the environmental impact of the company’s operations? If so, what are they and how are they monitored?
Yes, among others, indicators related to waste management segregated by type, energy consumption (both electricity and fuels), and the organization’s carbon footprint have been established. The evolution is reviewed, and actions are determined to improve performance in the associated processes.
- What changes have been made in waste management within the company to improve the circular economy?
We have established contacts with different waste management agents, with proposals in the analysis phase, mainly in the areas of metals, wood, and plastic. Recently, we have initiated circular management of aluminum profile waste, so that production process scraps are returned to the supplier and reintegrated into the supplied product.
Under the ESG lens.
- Have renewable energy sources been adopted at Castrosua’s facilities? If so, what types of energy are used and what has been their impact?
Yes, as mentioned, the electricity purchased is 100% renewable. Additionally, projects for the installation of photovoltaic energy are underway at the Castrosua and Carsa plants, which will allow us to generate energy in our own facilities. In our energy balance, electricity consumption results in zero greenhouse gas emissions.
- What sustainable materials have been incorporated into the manufacture of the bodies, and what criteria are followed for their selection?
We are working on lines of recyclable and/or recycled materials that maintain the durability and performance properties required by our standards. To achieve a product with lower consumption and greater autonomy, special emphasis is placed on the weight of the components. Furthermore, from a social perspective, we evaluate alternatives from local suppliers.
- How does Castrosua promote sustainability among its suppliers and collaborators?
We are committed to local development, also providing them with support to align with our standards and commitments. Audit plans are carried out in collaboration with short and medium-term goals.
Committed to local development
- What achievements would you highlight from the sustainability committee?
Management’s commitment has been fundamental for the entire organization to be aligned with this vision. In a short period, 39 lines of work have been analyzed, of which 11 have already been completed.
The commercialization of vehicles that meet the most demanding customer standards is the result of this vision, without forgetting the improvement in the environmental, social, and governance impacts of our activity.
Reducing environmental impact is a key factor in our new bodies,
As deduced from what Alberto tells us in this interview, at Grupo Castrosua, we are committed to socially responsible investment in environmental terms under the premise of the so-called ESG, which integrates the words Environmental, Social, and Governance.
What do you think of our measures?
