Cermer's Innovative Journey Towards Sustainability
In today's business landscape, innovation and sustainability have become paramount for companies striving to positively impact the environment. We are committed to embracing these values while promoting environmental responsibility and energy efficiency. Through various projects, Cermer has been at the forefront of research and innovation, aiming to reduce our carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Firing Process Optimization
The firing process plays a significant role in determining the carbon footprint of ceramic production. Bearing this in mind, Cermer has dedicated efforts to research and innovation in this area. We have undertaken two noteworthy projects to optimize our firing processes and enhance energy efficiency. The optimization of gas consumption in the firing oven is one of them. This project which has been supported by the Spanish Institute for the Diversification and Saving of Energy (IDAE), aimed at reducing fossil fuel consumption and optimizing energy efficiency in our firing ovens, implements innovative techniques such as hot air recovery and the pressure oxygenation system of the burners. The result: we successfully achieved a reduction in fossil fuel consumption by nearly 6%. This accomplishment contributes to the reduction of our carbon footprint and sets an example for the industry.
Recognizing the significant impact of the firing process on the carbon footprint of ceramic production, Cermer has made remarkable strides in research and innovation.
In collaboration with the Technological Institute of Ceramics (ITC), Cermer initiated a project to optimize firing curves. The objective was to reduce the duration of the cooking cycle while improving the associated carbon footprint. The partnership with ITC brings valuable expertise to the table, allowing us to leverage the latest research and developments in ceramic technology. By fine-tuning firing curves, Cermer has achieved significant improvements in energy efficiency, further reinforcing our commitment to sustainable practices.
Circular Economy in Manufacturing Processes
Cermer believes that the principles of a circular economy should extend beyond the final products and be applied to manufacturing processes as well. In the production process of ceramic containers, it is inevitable that ceramic waste in the form of little broken fragments is generated. Recognizing the need to minimize waste and promote sustainability, we have conducted extensive research on finding innovative ways to reuse this ceramic waste. Our research has shed light on the valuable properties of this waste material. By crushing the ceramic fragments into chamotte, a material characterized by its high heat resistance and durability, Cermer has opened up new avenues for its application in sustainable construction.
By blending chamotte with other eco-friendly materials, a mortar that exhibits excellent durability and thermal insulation characteristics can be created. By using this sustainable alternative, construction projects can significantly reduce their environmental impact. At Cermer, we actively collaborate with our clay provider to transform ceramic waste into useful products for bioconstruction that emphasizes the use of renewable and non-toxic materials that are locally sourced and have a minimal ecological footprint.
In bioconstruction, traditional building techniques are combined with modern sustainable practices to create structures that are in harmony with nature. The aim is to create buildings that possess a low carbon footprint, provide natural insulation, promote indoor air quality, and reduce energy consumption.
By embracing the circular economy principles, Cermer not only reduces waste but also contributes to the sustainable development of different industries.
Implementation of Solar Panels
To increase the share of sustainable energy in our operations, we have implemented solar panels as a clean energy solution covering 12% of the electricity we consume. By harnessing the power of the sun, we can reduce carbon emissions and decrease our dependence on fossil fuels. By generating clean energy through solar panels, Cermer sets an example for the industry, demonstrating how renewable energy sources can be seamlessly integrated into manufacturing processes. This initiative underscores our commitment to sustainability and serves as a testament to our forward-thinking approach.
As Cermer continues to push the boundaries of innovation, we remain steadfast in our mission to provide ceramic food packaging solutions that are not only functional but also aligned with sustainable practices.
