We pay full attention to the environment and our customers. Top quality in harmony with the environment.
Safeguarding the environment has become an imperative for businesses worldwide, and Mercator Medical is no exception. The importance of environmental compliance lies not only in meeting legal obligations but also in contributing to a sustainable future. By adhering to stringent environmental standards, we recognize our role in addressing global challenges, particularly the pressing issue of climate change.
Operational Efficiency and Climate Change
Mercator Medical (Thailand) Ltd. acknowledges that the manufacturing industry plays a pivotal role in managing climate changes. We are confident that through the optimization of our processes, minimization of waste, and adoption of sustainable practices, we can effectively mitigate our environmental impact. Our steadfast commitment to operational efficiency serves as a strategic imperative, enabling us to achieve market success while minimizing harm to the environment. Through continuous improvement initiatives, we strive to reduce our carbon footprint, optimize resource utilization, and adopt eco-friendly practices.
Legal Compliance
At Mercator Medical (Thailand) Ltd, we are unwavering in our commitment to comply with all national and local environmental laws and regulations. Upholding these standards is not only a legal obligation but a moral responsibility to ensure that our operations do not harm the environment. We view compliance as the baseline for our environmental stewardship.
ISO 14001:2015 Implementation
Demonstrating our unwavering commitment to continuous improvement and Environmental Best Practices, Mercator Medical has now achieved ISO 14001:2015 certification. This significant milestone, following our successful first-stage audit, provides a robust framework for data collection and the effective control of our environmental impact.
HSE Policy Integration
Integral to our environmental compliance is the incorporation of the Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) Policy into our day-to-day operations. Mercator Medical respects and upholds the principles of our HSE Policy, ensuring that health, safety, and environmental considerations are integrated seamlessly into every facet of our business activities.
Audits and Accountability
Mercator Medical (Thailand) Ltd. remains committed to transparency and accountability in our environmental practices. Our company undergoes numerous audits conducted by independent parties each year. These audits serve as a rigorous evaluation of our environmental compliance, ensuring that our operations align with the highest standards. Importantly, we are proud to report zero incidences of non-compliance with environmental laws and regulations in the past fiscal year.
In conclusion, environmental compliance at Mercator Medical (Thailand) Ltd. is not just a legal requirement but a fundamental aspect of our corporate responsibility. As we embark on the journey towards ISO 14001:2015 certification, we reinforce our commitment to sustainable practices, operational efficiency, and a future where our operations contribute positively to the environment. Through stringent compliance and continuous improvement, Mercator Medical (Thailand) Ltd. strives to be a beacon of environmental responsibility in the manufacturing industry
Mercator Medical (Thailand) Ltd. takes steps to minimize its impact on the environment and to limit its impact on the natural environment. The actions taken include:
using, to an acceptable extent, for operational activities raw materials of natural origin that do not negatively affect the ecosystem;
ensuring effective and economical management of raw materials and materials;
striving to improve the efficiency of energy consumption;
increasing the consumption of energy from renewable sources;
striving to reduce greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere;
striving to reduce emissions of pollutants into every element of the environment;
maximizing internal water circulation in the production process;
use of packaging made from recyclable raw materials;
optimization of packaging size;
appropriate delivery logistics.
Energy and Emissions Management at Mercator Medical
Nurturing Sustainability Through Innovation and Responsibility
In an era marked by global concerns about climate change and the ever-increasing demand for energy, the role of manufacturers in managing energy consumption and emissions is of paramount importance. In this context Mercator Medical, as a producer of latex gloves, recognizes the environmental challenges and is committed to adopting sustainable practices that address the dual imperatives of mitigating climate change and ensuring operational efficiency.
Commitment to Energy Conservation
At the core of Mercator Medical (Thailand) Ltd. ethos is a deep-seated commitment to energy conservation. This commitment extends beyond environmental stewardship to include a strategic focus on optimizing operational costs. By blending environmental responsibility with economic efficiency, we aim to set new standards in sustainable manufacturing practices.
Renewable Energy Integration
Mercator Medical (Thailand) Ltd. takes pride in sourcing almost 100% of its energy from renewable sources. Our energy mix includes biomass for heat production and electricity derived from both the grid and our solar plant. A noteworthy achievement is the incorporation of 15% photovoltaic energy into our electricity consumption, showcasing our dedication to reducing our carbon footprint.
Carbon Neutrality Through Biomass
The utilization of biomass for heat production aligns seamlessly with global environmental initiatives, as outlined in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Kyoto Protocol. This not only positions Mercator Medical as an industry leader in sustainability but also ensures that our heat energy production has a minimal impact on our carbon footprint.
Demonstrating the effectiveness of our sustainability initiatives, Mercator Medical achieved encouraging reductions in energy consumption per 1000 pieces in both 2023 and 2024, surpassing our target of 0.45 GJ. This success reflects our dedication to continuous improvement and environmental responsibility. Previously, in 2022, heat consumption experienced a temporary increase from 0.48 GJ to 0.54 GJ per 1000 pieces. This was largely due to the challenging market conditions in the glove industry following the pandemic, which resulted in lower production volumes and consequently a higher energy consumption rate per unit. We remain focused on building upon our recent successes to further optimize our processes and minimize our environmental footprint.
Monitoring, Metrics, and Ambitious Goals
Mercator Medical has been rigorously monitoring energy consumption parameters for the past four years. To further our commitment to sustainability, we have established ambitious goals. Metrics such as average electricity consumption, biomass energy consumption, the share of photovoltaic energy, and the contribution of biomass energy to our total energy consumption guide our efforts towards carbon neutrality by 2050.
Compliance with Air Pollution Standards
Operating in Thailand, Mercator Medical is bound by strict adherence to all existing legal provisions related to air pollution standards set by Thai authorities. Our commitment to environmental responsibility is validated through monthly air pollution tests conducted by an independent company, ensuring that our operations consistently meet and exceed regulatory standards. Furthermore, we actively monitor and report to local authorities the emissions from our Thermal Boilers powered by biomass, focusing on five key parameters of air pollution. This proactive approach underscores our dedication to transparency and accountability in managing our environmental impact.
Carbon Footprint Tracking and Accountability
Since 2019, Mercator Medical has been diligently tracking its carbon footprint across all three scopes (Scope 1, 2, and 3). Employing the ISO-14064-1 standard and The GHG Protocol A Corporate Accounting and Reporting Standard ensures the accuracy and reliability of our carbon footprint calculations. Notably, our commitment to environmental sustainability is exemplified by the use of biomass for producing 100% of the necessary heat energy, resulting in a net impact on our carbon footprint that is effectively zero.This approach aligns with the current international convention, as outlined in the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's "2006 IPCC Guidelines for National Greenhouse Gas Inventories." The convention stipulates that carbon released through biomass combustion is excluded from reported energy-related emissions. This exclusion is based on the assumption that the carbon released is balanced by the carbon uptake during the growth of the biomass feedstock, resulting in zero net emissions over a specified period.
By leveraging biomass in our operations, Mercator Medical not only prioritizes sustainable energy practices but also contributes to a carbon-neutral approach, showcasing our dedication to minimizing our environmental impact. In conclusion, Mercator Medical's multifaceted approach to energy and emissions management exemplifies our commitment to innovation, responsibility, and sustainability. By integrating renewable energy, setting ambitious goals, and adhering to global standards, we position ourselves as pioneers in responsible manufacturing, contributing to a greener and more sustainable future.
Water Consumption and Effluents Management at Mercator Medical
Navigating Challenges for a Sustainable Future
The importance of water consumption and the limitation of effluents in the production process cannot be overstated, particularly in the context of mitigating climate change and addressing global water scarcity challenges. As climate change intensifies, severe droughts, diminishing groundwater levels, and depleting reservoirs underscore the critical need for responsible water management practices. For latex gloves producers, the significance of water is heightened, not only due to the large quantities required in the production process but also because the quality of water directly impacts the quality of the final product.
Water Sources and Quality Assurance
Mercator Medical recognizes the vital role water plays in our operations. We source water from diverse outlets, including underground wells, nearby ponds, rivers, rainwater, and recycled water from our Wastewater Treatment Plant and ultrafiltration process. Last year, we embraced sustainability by incorporating 12% reused water back into our production processes, a testament to our commitment to minimizing our environmental impact.
Monitoring effluents and Compliance
Our dedication to responsible water management extends to vigilant monitoring. We collect data on water usage for production, social purposes, and additional processes. The quality of water entering our facility through the Water Treatment Plant is monitored rigorously. Post-production, water quality is scrutinized through our Wastewater Treatment Plant, ensuring that effluents meet stringent standards before release to stormwater drainage system. Third-party assessments further validate our commitment regularly checking eight parameters, with regular reports submitted to local environmental authorities to comply with water management regulations.
Mercator Medical has made significant progress in optimizing water usage, achieving a consumption of 0.24 m³ per 1000 pieces in 2023 and further reducing it to 0.16 m³ per 1000 pieces in 2024. This brings us close to our target of 0.12 m³ per 1000 pieces and demonstrates the effectiveness of our sustainable water management practices. Previously, water consumption had increased from 0.1 m³ in 2019 to 0.27 m³ in 2022. This rise was attributed to a change in our deep well water usage rate (from 70% to 41%) and the lower output in 2022 due to challenging post-pandemic market conditions in the glove industry. We remain dedicated to reaching our water consumption target and further improving our water management practices.
Safeguarding Water Resources
Recognizing the potential threat posed by a drop in groundwater levels, Mercator Medical is proactively implementing measures to secure a sustainable water supply for its operations. These include:
- Water Treatment Plant Investment: A strategic investment aims to reduce water demand by one-third for both factories, promoting efficiency and sustainability.
- Exploration of New Water Intakes: The company is actively searching for and opening new water intakes from deeper layers of the earth to ensure a reliable water supply.
- Water Conservation Projects: Initiatives are underway to minimize water losses in the production process and optimize water usage, contributing to sustainability goals.
- Rainwater Harvesting: Mercator Medical is actively working on harnessing rainwater, further reducing dependence on traditional water sources.
- Water Stress Survey: A comprehensive "water stress survey" is planned for production plants and suppliers to assess vulnerability to water-related challenges.
- Diversification of Water Intakes: Increasing the diversification of water sources is a strategic move to reduce the risk of potential supply interruptions, especially during dry seasons.
By taking these proactive measures, Mercator Medical not only aligns with global sustainability goals but also reinforces its commitment to responsible water management, ensuring resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Waste Management at Mercator Medical
A Crucial Pillar of Sustainable Operations
Waste management in a production facility holds paramount significance as it serves as a pivotal element in fostering sustainability, environmental stewardship, and responsible corporate citizenship. Mercator Medical (Thailand) Ltd finds the effective management of waste is crucial for several compelling reasons:
Environmental Impact: Inadequate waste management can result in pollution, soil degradation, and harm to ecosystems. By adopting robust waste management practices, companies contribute to the preservation of natural resources and the protection of biodiversity.
Regulatory Compliance: Strict environmental regulations govern waste disposal and emissions. Adherence to these regulations is not only a legal obligation but also a demonstration of a company's commitment to operating ethically and responsibly within its regulatory framework.
Resource Conservation: Proper waste management allows for the identification and recovery of valuable materials from the waste stream. This not only minimizes environmental impact but also contributes to the efficient use of resources, fostering a circular economy.
Operational Efficiency: Implementing effective waste management practices enhances operational efficiency. Reduction in waste generation, recycling initiatives, and responsible disposal methods streamline production processes and minimize costs associated with waste disposal.
Corporate Reputation: A commitment to sustainable waste management positively influences a company's reputation. Stakeholders, including customers, investors, and communities, increasingly value businesses that prioritize environmental responsibility and demonstrate a commitment to minimizing their ecological footprint.
Social Responsibility: Beyond legal and regulatory considerations, effective waste management reflects a company's dedication to social responsibility. It showcases an awareness of the broader environmental impact of business operations and a proactive effort to address and mitigate these effects.
Quantitative Waste Monitoring - 2021
In our commitment to continuous improvement, Mercator Medical has implemented waste monitoring starting from the year 2021. The data in the table above reflects our dedication to transparently assess and quantify our waste generation, allowing for informed decision-making and targeted reduction strategies.
Waste Reduction, Recycling, and Reuse:
Mercator Medical actively pursues strategies to reduce, recycle, or reuse waste. This, coupled with responsible consumption practices, underscores our commitment to minimizing our environmental impact throughout the product lifecycle.
Responsible Disposal of Hazardous Waste:
Mercator Medical is committed to advancing sustainable business practices in the latex gloves industry through robust waste management initiatives. While we continue to focus on diligent monitoring, reduction strategies, and responsible disposal, we have observed an increase in non-hazardous waste and landfill disposal in 2023 and 2024. This is primarily due to the full operation of our new Plant 3, which generates ash from its biomass boiler, and an increase in municipal waste linked to the higher number of workers in our factory hostels. We are actively addressing these factors as we strive to minimize our environmental footprint and uphold our commitment to environmental responsibility and a sustainable future.
