Clariant is committed to generating genuine, sustainable added value. This requires the best possible balance between ecological, social and economic needs, the highest priorities being personal safety and environmentally sound processes and products.
Commitment to Sustainability
Clariant’s mandatory principles on environment, safety, and health (ESH) are laid down in the Group’s ESH rules. In addition to compliance with national laws and regulations, the goals of the Business Charter for Sustainable Development of the International Chamber of Commerce and the Responsible Care initiative of the chemical industry serve as guiding principles. With regard to social responsibility, Clariant’s models include the precepts of the International Labor Organization.
Integrated Product Policy
For Clariant, integrated product policy means the inclusion of all processes along the value chain. Even at the stage of supplier selection, price and quality are not the only criteria; a special appraisal mechanism is used to assess suppliers’ compliance with ESH requirements. In accordance with the principles of local responsibility and accountability, problems are solved where they occur. ESH representatives in every part of the company, therefore, cooperate closely with their responsible line management. They make sure that the ESH regulations are effectively implemented at all facilities. Regular workshops are held to ensure that all employees accept their share of the responsibility, in line with their functions and their competencies. At the same time, Clariant provides its customers with comprehensive information and services to ensure that its products are used in ways that are safe and not harmful to the environment, and can be properly disposed of.
Risk Management
Operational risks are identified with the assistance of the software-supported risk portfolio. This gives detailed information on the most effective use of available resources, thus permitting targeted corrective measures to be taken. Regular internal and external audits are carried out to monitor compliance and support the transfer of experience among the facilities. An ESH know-how database, installed in 2002, facilitates the exchange of information.
Continuous Improvement
Every year, Clariant invests substantial sums in safety and environmental protection. At the Höchst facility, for example, 3.8 million Euros have been spent on installing automatic filter presses. These presses simplify work routines and at the same time reduce the energy costs of drying pigments by 20%. At the Griesheim facility, a new exhaust-air purification unit installed at a cost of 900,000 Euros is reducing the emission of organic substances by 80%.