Model recycling: at the top of the industry General Motors now with 131 landfill-free production facilities
Europe becomes GM's first global region to completely eliminate landfills in its manufacturing plants
A total of 23 Opel/Vauxhall plants in Europe no longer have landfills, which means that they recycle, reuse or convert all waste from their daily operations into energy. With the addition of the Luton Assembly and Ellesmere Port Assembly plants in the UK, Europe has become GM's first global region with zero landfill at its manufacturing plants. GM's total number of landfill-free facilities is 131, the largest in the industry.
"Our global progress in waste reduction is made possible by employee engagement, creative ideas and a strong network of suppliers," said Jim DeLuca, executive vice president of GM's Global Manufacturing division. "Our teams understand the positive results of this initiative and are implementing it at their facilities every day."
To eliminate landfills, European factories have used a variety of tools to educate and inspire, from recycling seminars to educational videos to help understand the environmental benefits and the business case. Some factories designate a coordinator in each department to ensure employee participation and recognize team members who are making significant progress.
All production facilities will continue to intensify their efforts and reduce the overall amount of waste where possible.
"We at Opel/Vauxhall see waste as an untapped resource and go beyond the traditional waste targets that are usually achieved by optimising existing methods. Only when you see waste as a raw material do you start to rethink current processes and develop new ways of doing business. Strategically we do not only want to get rid of landfills, but also to improve and reuse materials," comments Dr. Renate Adam, Director Environmental Compatibility and Sustainability, Opel/Vauxhall Europe.
GM teams around the world are working towards the goal of 150 landfill-free factories by 2020. The company was awarded a Top Project of the Year award by Environmental Leader for driving a global movement for zero waste and outlines its best practices in its 'Zero Waste Business Plan' handbook.
