2020 Sustainability Report

39 Ecology “ For every Girsberger product, we check the environmental impact of the materials it will use, right from the design stage. ” consideration in order to make it as resource-efficient, low-pollutant, low-waste, recyclable, durable and repairable as possible, from the manufacturing stage through to the end of its useful life. _3. Ecologically and socially conscious procurement In the procurement of raw and other materials, apart from commercial and technical aspects, we place importance on selecting suppliers who work in a socially and environmen- tally sound way. For this reason, Girsberger has drawn up a supplier code of conduct. This code contains the key fundamental criteria that a Girsberger supplier needs to satisfy, including, for example, compliance with local laws and basic human and labour rights, and a ban on corruption. In addition, a supplier assessment is carried out annually. _4. CO 2 -neutral production and optimum energy efficiency We employ energy-efficient production processes and handle resources carefully. However, we cannot completely avoid creating CO 2 emissions in our production process and distribution channels. We offset these remaining emissions – 639 tonnes in 2020 – with Fair Recycling. This Swiss climate protection foundation is contributing to climate protection around the world by recycling old CFC refrigerators in developing countries in a fair manner. Since 2013, 100 % of electricity requirements at our sites in Bützberg and Endingen have been covered by green electricity generated with hydro- and solar power. The photovoltaic system at the Endingen production plant produced 56.1 % in 2019 and 62 % in 2020 of the site’s electricity needs. _5. Shorter transport distances Whenever it is possible and financially viable to do so, we prefer to choose manufactur- ers and raw materials suppliers who are based within a radius of 600 km of the relevant production site. It gives us the security of knowing that, in addition to the matters of price and quality, the risks relating to environmental and social issues are limited thanks to the legal framework, as are any indirect environmental costs, while the risk of injury at work and breaches of human rights is kept to a minimum. _6. Durability Durable products are an important prerequisite for the sustainable use of resources. That is why we pursue the highest quality standards as well as a durable and timeless design. Furthermore, we pay attention to good repairability and support this with our own service and repair service. _7. Remanufacturing With our Remanufacturing service, we are committed to ensuring that office chairs and other furniture are not prematurely thrown out and replaced, but are kept in use longer or given a new lease of life thanks to expert maintenance and repair, regardless of whether they are Girsberger products or not. _8. Recycling of raw materials Correct disposal by a certified waste disposal company ensures the right conditions for the raw materials to be fed back into the material cycle. Mathias Seiler Head of Design and Marketing, Girsberger Holding AG