Escarmat builds its sustainability on core values

Sustainability plays a key role in Escarmat’s manufacturing of switchboards, automation and control cabinets, and it is reflected in the company’s daily operations.

– Although our production does not generate direct process emissions, we take environmental impacts into account in areas such as property maintenance, waste management, logistics, and the supply chain, says Quality Manager Joni Reinikka, emphasizing that the operations generate significantly lower emissions compared to most similar sized industrial operators.

Certified sustainability

Quality and environmental systems support customer orientation, continuous operational improvement, as well as the identification and management of environmental risks.

– We have implemented the ISO 9001 Quality Management System and ISO 14001 Environmental Management standard. Escarmat has used both systems since 2003, and Bureau Veritas has audited them since their latest updates in 2018. In addition, we have an ISO 45001:2018 certified Occupational health and Work Safety System. For electrical and electronic equipment used in explosive atmospheres, we comply with Annex IV ATEX QAN and IECEx QAR requirements. Our latest achievement is the UL 508A certification, which is a safety standard specifically required for the United States market, Reinikka states.

The aim is to improve energy efficiency and utilize renewable energy sources

Escarmat strives to improve energy efficiency and increase the use of renewable energy in its daily operations. The rental premises located at Strömberg Park in Vaasa already use green electricity.

Recent developments at the Vikby premises in Mustasaari include significant investments to reduce electricity consumption. For example, switching to LED lighting in production, office, and outdoor areas has reduced electricity use by approximately 80%. In addition, the installation of motion sensors and remote-control systems has further improved both energy efficiency and workplace safety.

Waste management as part of promoting the circular economy

Careful waste sorting and recycling enable Escarmat to improve material utilization, promote reuse, and reduce environmental impact. Responsible waste management also helps the company save costs and supports sustainable development.

Active recycling of copper, copper wire, and mixed metal waste is part of everyday operations. Campaigns aimed at reducing copper waste have produced concrete results in terms of material efficiency and cost savings. Part of the organization’s environmental responsibility is to regularly remind employees of the importance of this goal.

The real-time portal provided by waste management company Remeo allows tracking of waste processing by cost and weight. Data can be viewed by individual location or at the company level, and customized reports can be generated for various purposes. The portal helps reduce the amount of packaging materials and other waste.

Clear plastic is one of the waste fractions collected separately for recycling. Employees have received clear instructions to sort clear plastic packaging from energy waste into designated collection bags, which are available on dedicated racks throughout the production areas. This practice reduces the need for paid waste collection and enhances material utilization, providing both economic and environmental benefits. The recycling and monitoring processes for clear plastic will continue to be systematically improved.

Supply chain responsibility and transparency

Transparency and responsibility throughout the supply chain are essential to the company. Escarmat requires its suppliers to commit to ethical guidelines and participate in Conflict Mineral Reporting, as mandated by international customers for their subcontractors. Responsibility runs through the entire supply chain, particularly in the technology, automotive, and electronics industries.

– We are committed to using only suppliers whose materials do not originate from conflict areas, and who share our values in respecting human rights, ethical conduct, and environmental responsibility, Reinikka adds.

Responsibility toward individuals and communities

Escarmat’s employees are actively engaged in promoting a more responsible everyday life. For example, proper waste sorting and material recycling are part of daily operations, and environmental responsibility is also reflected in commuting practices. Since 2018, the employees have participated in the national cycling challenge, and this year’s goal is to save 1,000 liters of fuel through sustainable commuting.

The company invests heavily in the well-being and professional development of its employees by providing, among other things, exercise benefits, high-quality occupational health care, and opportunities for continuous learning. The systematic improvement of occupational safety relies on regular observations and training.

Social responsibility is part of the company’s daily operations and is reflected, for example, in supporting youth employment through apprenticeship programs and in sponsoring recreational activities for children and young people.

Responsibility is built step by step – together, with consistency, and guided by shared values.

Read the article about the results of Escarmat’s work ability survey