Beyond the requirements laid down in the environmental legislation, such self-imposed obligations as the chemical industry’s “Responsible Care” initiative represent essential instruments for the continuous improvement of Aurubis’ performance in environmental and health protection.

In order to safeguard our environmental protection measures and ensure their constant optimisation, the following principles were laid out in our company guidelines:

• The continuous improvement of water conservation, soil conservation and immission control is a core aim of environmental protection.
• For reasons of accountability, environmental and climate protection should be developed further in such a way as to preserve natural resources and avoid or minimise the burdens on the environment and our employees.
• Issues of environmental protection should be taken into account equally in the planning and development of new products and production processes.
• Processed raw materials and intermediate products should be brought into the economic cycle as completely as possible and unavoidable waste should be properly recycled or harmlessly disposed of. Raw material suppliers are advised on issues related to environmental protection if needed.
• Essential precautions to avoid accidents and operational disruptions are in place to prevent or minimise environmental hazards for our employees and neighbours as well as effects on the environment.
• Our employees’ sense of responsibility in environmental protection should be strengthened and an objective, open and respectful dialogue should take place with them, the relevant authorities and the public.
• Our customers are appropriately informed about the features of our products and necessary safety measures and are advised on questions relating to product disposal.
• External companies working for us must be selected, informed and advised in such a way as to ensure that laws and our environmental protection standards are observed.

These targets are being transferred to the individual sites by adjusting them to local needs and requirements and implementing them in the respective environmental management system.