Sustainability is a journey rather than a destination, and it is one that Ardagh Group has been following for some time, according to Ardagh’s 2013 Sustainability Report, which covers ongoing initiatives from all parts of the company’s worldwide glass and metal packaging operations.
Ardagh Group, which has a turnover of €4.2 billion ($5.74 billion) and employs more than 18,000 people, defines sustainability as “not only delivering a reduced environmental impact but also achieving sound economic performance and making a positive social contribution.”
It says the emphasis has always been on “taking a proactive approach to identify and minimize any economic, environmental and social risks that may affect the business.”
The company’s aim, “to be the leading supplier of inherently sustainable packaging” is exemplified in the case studies that feature in the 2013 Report.
They include:
- Running a project throughout the European Glass Division to increase the quality of recycled glass,
- The first company to meet the requirements of the Environmental Protection Encouragement Agency for the assessment of two metal cans according to cradle-to-cradle standards,
- Delivering an educational program on recycling to 4500 Polish children,
- Achieving continuing success in eliminating accidents through the Be Safe program,
- Gaining the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certificate at the Conklin Metal Plant by the US Green Building Council, and
- Launching a heat exchange pilot program in collaboration with Coca Cola at the Dongen Glass Plant in the Netherlands
