Sustainable resource utilisation, CO2 reduction and future-proof energy supply.
Sustainability is not just a buzzword for us – it is a central component of our corporate policy. We not only stand for outstanding product quality, but also for responsible production that prioritises climate friendliness and resource conservation. With an ambitious package of measures, we are continuously investing in innovative technologies and solutions that reduce our company’s ecological footprint and thus actively contribute to the energy transition.
Another project in 2025 is the expansion of our photovoltaic system: as part of our new hall construction, we have decided to equip the entire existing building roof with state-of-the-art photovoltaic technology. With a total output of 190 kilowatts peak (kWp), the new solar system will cover a considerable part of our energy requirements in future and thus make a significant contribution to reducing our CO2 emissions.
Double efficiency – two construction phases for a greener future.
The new photovoltaic system will be realised in two construction phases: at the old building section with an output of 100 kWp will go into operation as early as June 2025, followed by the system at the new building section with 90 kWp, which will be connected to the grid in autumn 2025. Overall, we expect to save around 72 tonnes of CO2 per year, based on the German average value of CO2 emissions per kilowatt in 2024. Thanks to the use of state-of-the-art solar modules and a very high level of self-consumption, we expect maximum efficiency. The integration of an intelligent energy management system also enables us to optimise our own consumption and feed surplus energy into the power grid on non-production days.
The photovoltaic system is just one component of our comprehensive sustainability strategy, which focuses specifically on resource conservation and energy efficiency. By utilising renewable energies, we not only promote the competitiveness of our company, but also make an important contribution to climate protection and securing jobs in German industry.
Conserving resources through innovative technologies.
But we go even further: our focus on sustainability is also reflected in numerous other measures that have already been implemented to save energy and reduce CO2 emissions. One of the key technologies is our heat recovery system. With an impressive efficiency of over 60%, we utilise the extracted air from production for heating and reducing heat requirements. Intelligent exhaust air controls on our vulcanisation machines and optimised exhaust air motors on the extraction systems further minimise energy consumption.
We were also able to minimise heat losses by introducing automated high-speed doors and reorganising our heating circuits. Our production environment is lowered to a pleasant but energy-efficient temperature of 19°C in winter.
Other innovative measures include a faster degreasing system, which significantly reduces energy consumption and solvent requirements, and investment in a fully automated coating system, which reduces overspray by an impressive 95% while drastically reducing solvent emissions.
Optimised water and nitrogen consumption.
Another highlight: replacing our cooling towers for machine cooling with an adiabatic cooling system has led to a reduction in drinking water and waste water consumption of 200 m³. The waste heat from production will then be used to heat the entire extension building. In addition, thanks to the procurement of an energy-efficient, cryogenic deburring system, we are saving around 40% of liquid nitrogen, which is of great benefit both economically and ecologically.
Mobility of the future: e-mobility and green electricity.
We are also focussing on sustainable solutions in the area of mobility: With the installation of e-charging points and the use of electric company cars and e-bikes by our employees, we are making a further contribution to reducing our carbon footprint. These measures not only support climate protection, but also help to improve the air quality in our region.
Another important milestone in our sustainability programme was the complete switch to 100% green electricity in 2024.
This decision once again emphasises our commitment to strengthening climate protection and using sustainable technologies in all areas of our company.
Sustainability as the basis for a successful future.
With the investment in the new photovoltaic system and the numerous environmental measures to reduce energy consumption and CO2 emissions, we are setting a strong example for the industry – for the benefit of the environment and society.
‘We act’ – with conviction and passion. Because sustainable use of resources and minimising our CO2 footprint are not just a goal for us, but a long-term responsibility that we consciously accept.