Embracing Circularity to Further Enhance Resource Management
To achieve our net zero goals, we are adopting a circular economy approach. Circularity goes beyond just recycling; it is about redesigning how we make and use things to minimise waste and pollution, keep products and materials in use for as long as possible. The more systematic approach is designed to preserve and enhance natural capital (like forests and clean water), optimise how we use resources, and minimise risks to our systems by carefully managing our natural resources and promoting renewable flows. By optimising resource utilisation, we strengthen our business resilience and reduce exposure to market volatility.
Our waste, water, and soil management practices are also key to this circular economy strategy. Instead of simply throwing things away, we are converting waste materials into valuable resources, such as turning waste into fertilisers for soil improvement or using them as raw materials for other industries. We are also recycling and reusing wastewater in our production processes. This has a twofold benefit: it reduces our exposure to environmental risks (like soil degradation and water stress) and lessens our negative impact on the environment.
By embracing the 7Rs of Circularity, we achieve significant benefits. We are dedicated to promoting a circular economy throughout our operations and beyond. We actively engage with our stakeholders, including suppliers, customers, and local communities, to raise awareness about the importance of the 7Rs and encourage their participation in our circular economy initiatives.
We believe that by working together, we can create a more sustainable future for all.
The Specifics of the 7Rs of Circularity
Rethink
We continuously re-evaluate our processes and practices to identify areas where we can reduce waste and optimise resource utilisation:
- Using EFB for mulching in the plantations instead of being disposed as waste
- Installing biogas facilities to process palm oil mill effluent and generate renewable emissions into electricity
- Adopting new process technology e.g. physical clarification vs chemical pre-treatment to reduce chemical waste
- Using a thermal oil system for heating instead of water heating systems in IOI Palm Wood
