Second GELITA AG Sustainability Report

As a manufacturer of pure natural products, GELITA AG is highly committed to the environment, and sustainable action is deeply rooted in its corporate philosophy. The recently published second Sustainability Report provides information on the company's environmental, economic and social commitment and illustrates the progress that has been made.

Gelatine, collagen and collagen peptides are natural products. This is why the world's foremost innovator and producer of collagen proteins, based in Eberbach, attaches great importance to the responsible use of resources. "Our goal is to combine economic success with ecological and social responsibility," says Dr Franz Josef Konert, Chief Executive Officer at GELITA AG. The company is continuously seeking new ways to minimize the impact of its business on the environment at all 21 locations throughout the globe.

Wide-ranging commitment

GELITA's commitment to sustainability covers a wide spectrum. Investments in new, energy-saving technologies and improved production processes are just as much a part of the strategy as measures to increase occupational safety or social initiatives for staff members at GELITA locations around the world. The recently published Sustainability Report showcases exemplary projects that GELITA launched last year, and provides information on the progress made. The measures in the plants include, for example, the recovery of water from production, the use of electricity from renewable energy sources, or the utilization of residues from gelatine production as compost. It also presents the development of some important key figures. For example, despite an increase in production volume, energy consumption, the quantity of fresh water used, the wastewater volume and emissions such as the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide (CO₂) were all reduced.

Innovation for a better quality of life

In addition to the continuous improvement of production processes, the focus is on the development of innovative products. “The quality of our products also helps to conserve natural resources, for example, when they are used in fertilizers or detergents. And they contribute to health and well-being", says Michael Teppner, Head of Marketing and Communication at GELITA. From year to year, life expectancy is increasing. Many people want to remain active and mobile in their old age. Collagen peptides in dietary supplements provide for strong bones and supple joints. In combination with regular weight training, they help to maintain muscle strength. GELITA also produces products for smooth skin, shiny hair and firm fingernails. Numerous scientific studies demonstrate their effectiveness.

When processing animal raw materials – by-products of meat production such as cattle hide or pig skin – for gelatine and collagen peptides, fats, functional proteins and minerals also arise. GELITA has developed complex processes to produce quality products from these materials – fertilizer, animal feed or biofuels, for example. "Our modern manufacturing processes mean that the raw materials are almost completely utilized in a sustainable and efficient way", says Teppner.

Focus on people

Sustainable economic management also includes dealing with employees in the right way. Occupational health and safety are top priorities at GELITA. Among other things, improving work processes or investing in safe facilities have contributed to a continual decline in the number of work-related accidents at the sites. And this despite an increase in the number of employees globally. Social commitment at GELITA does not end at the factory gate: In 2016, the company supported 96 projects worldwide, ranging from sporting events and aid for socially disadvantaged people to educating young people. The commitment includes cooperation with schools and study trips or music lessons for talented children and youngsters. Sustainable commitment at GELITA, however, means more than just material support. "Our employees themselves get actively involved in providing help", says Teppner.

Note for editorial offices

The Sustainability Report is available in English as an e-paper at www.gelita.com. A PDF version and further information on GELITA AG's commitment to sustainability can be found here.