Our 2030 Roadmap to Measurable Sustainability
For SIGMA Group, sustainability is not a separate project; it is an integral part of our manufacturing excellence. Our 2030 Roadmap is built on the belief that environmental responsibility must be transparent, audited, and technologically driven.
1. A Circular Audit Process
We don’t self-certify our progress. Our sustainability journey follows a rigorous circular process conducted every four years by a third-party audit firm.
-
The Process: This audit analyzes our energy consumption, resource management, and overall carbon impact.
-
The Goal: Based on these findings, we implement corrective actions to ensure we are constantly improving our efficiency and reducing waste.
2. Carbon Footprint per Product
We understand that our customers need to report their own Scope 3 emissions. To support this, SIGMA is moving toward calculating the Carbon Footprint for individual product lines.
This data allows plant managers and procurement professionals to make informed decisions based on the actual environmental impact of the refractories they install.
3. Transitioning Energy: Solar & Electric
Our facilities in Italy and Bulgaria are the testing grounds for our energy transition:
- Solar Power: Our combined photovoltaic systems generate 900,000 kWh annually, saving approximately 480 tons of CO2 per year.
- The Electric Furnace: By 2025, our Plovdiv facility will operate a groundbreaking electric furnace. This innovation significantly reduces direct emissions while providing precise firing conditions that further enhance product quality .
4. Planning for the Future: Hydrogen & Oxyfuel
The glass industry is shifting toward hydrogen-oxygen combustion to reach Net Zero. These new fuels create extreme conditions that traditional refractories cannot handle.
-
Ready for 2030: We have developed the ZM927V grade, specifically engineered to resist the high temperatures and increased moisture levels of hydrogen-rich environments.
-
Longevity as Sustainability: By creating materials that last longer in these harsh conditions, we reduce the frequency of repairs and the total lifecycle waste of the furnace.
A Shared Responsibility
Our 2030 Roadmap is designed to align with the global goals of our partners. By choosing SIGMA, you are choosing a partner that provides the data and the technology needed to transform the glass industry into a sustainable powerhouse.
At SIGMA, we don’t just supply refractories. We supply the data and innovation for a cleaner future.
