Responsibility
1. Low emission heating system
Two heat sources one goal: The plant uses the cooling water circuit of our manufacturing machines to feed the hot water produced directly into the heating system with a powerful refrigeration machine and pump station. This technology saves fuel oil and drastically reduces the pollutant values of the exhaust gases.
Emissions of the heating system in kg / a, CO2 t/a
| Formerly | Now | |||
| SO2 | 190.08 | 43.96 | ||
| NOx | 77.76 | 17.98 | ||
| CH4 | 1.44 | 0.33 | ||
| NMVOC | 8.64 | 2.00 | ||
| CO | 31.68 | 7.33 | ||
| CO2 | 210.24 | 48.6 |
The concept is supported by the installation of a heat recovery system in the high-bay warehouse. Furthermore, 3 dust separators in the production rooms ensure that no dust particles are released into the atmosphere.
2. Safety for the environment
We are proud to have done more for the safety of the company than the authorities required. All factory buildings are equipped with a state-of-the-art automatic sprinkler system, not only the production facilities but also the two high-bay warehouses as well as the offices, the laboratory, the tinting plant, the forwarding department and the cellar rooms. In addition, there is a chemical sewerage system around the factory with a large collection tank to prevent damage to surrounding land in the event of a disaster.
3. Promotion of environmentally friendly green electricity
By purchasing green electricity, we are setting an example for a conscious approach to the environment that conserves resources.
4. Photovoltaics
Photovoltaics are a sustainable way to generate electricity. We support the federal government's efforts to selectively use roof areas to generate electricity. Knuchel Farben AG has installed a photovoltaic system on suitable roof surfaces. The panels cover an area of 700 m² and have an output of 120 kWp. The system generates about 100 MWh of electricity per year, which corresponds to about 1/7 of Knuchel Farben AG's electricity needs.
On the roof of our new building "Avenir 2022" we will extend the plant by another 480 m². This plant has an output of 100 kWp and will generate about 100 MWh of electricity. In total, we will therefore produce around 200 MWh, which corresponds to a good quarter of our electricity consumption.
5. cardboard recycling
Recycling paper and cardboard is an environmentally friendly alternative to producing new fibres. Compared to the production of virgin fibre paper, using recycled paper can save up to 60 water. In addition, for every tonne of recycled paper, around 2.5 tonnes of wood is saved, which makes a significant contribution to the preservation of our forests.
To make the recycling process in our company even more efficient, we have invested in a modern and high-performance cardboard baler. This machine compresses the cardboard into compact bales that are optimally prepared for the further recycling process.
These measures enable us to conserve valuable resources, reduce our ecological footprint and actively contribute to protecting the environment. We are continuously committed to optimising our processes and promoting sustainable solutions.
6. Waste disposal and recycling
Our company places great emphasis on environmentally conscious waste disposal. We have set up collection points for the proper collection of materials such as paint waste, metal, wood and electrical appliances, and for their environmentally friendly disposal.
The collected materials are handed over to specialised recycling companies for reprocessing or environmentally friendly disposal. Metals are melted down, wood is used to generate energy and electronic scrap is dismantled to recover raw materials. Paint waste is treated in accordance with strict environmental regulations.
Efficient recycling processes enable up to 90% of the collected waste to be reused. This reduces the consumption of primary resources and lowers CO2 emissions, which means that we actively contribute to the conservation of resources and protection of the environment.
