Ahlstrom takes a three-step approach into sustainability in its value chain. The first step is the sustainable supply chain for our raw materials. Natural fibers are by far the most important raw material in Ahlstrom’s products. We want to ensure that they come from sustainably managed forests. As for other raw materials, as a priority we want to make sure that our strategic suppliers are responsible companies. The approach can then be applied and broadened to site level or even to product level for the main non-wood raw materials.
The second step is ecologically efficient manufacturing where emissions are minimized. The main principles of Ahlstrom’s environmental responsibility are to achieve complete compliance with environmental and social regulations, to minimize the emissions to the air, water and soil, and to optimize the efficiency of operations thus saving raw materials and energy. A key topic today is to minimize waste and, if still created, find alternative uses for it. All this also makes economic sense.
The third step is a holistic life cycle thinking for our products. The environmental impacts are evaluated over the whole life cycle of the product. Our industry is capable of controlling the impacts from cradle to gate, but the end of life options need to be taken into account in the product design. To have a comprehensive picture, social impacts also need to be considered.
Economic, social and environmental responsibility is taken into account in all these linked areas making it a truly holistic concept. It is like a 3-legged stool – all parts are essential and none of them can be neglected.
When meeting the criteria for minimized environmental impacts over the life cycle, we can talk about “green”. When the product in addition has positive social and economic impacts, it can be called “sustainable”.
For more information, please contact Anna Maija Wessman at anna.wessman@ahlstrom.com