Camfil and sustainability

MINIMIZING THE IMPACT OF OUR PRODUCTS

At Camfil, we provide a replacement product which puts pressure on us to deliver filters with the least possible effects on the environment. Several examples are given in this report, such as reducing the environmental impact of filter frames by switching to reground plastic.Over the years, we have constantly focused on minimizing the environmental footprint of our products, however, by reflecting on ourselves, we see we can really make a change by supplying our customers with products delivering high filtration and energy efficiency. Our Life Cycle Analysis calculations show, for example,that approximately 90 percent of the environmental impact of a filter comes from the usage phase of the filter. Therefore, a 10 percent reduction in energy consumption would have an impact as big as the total raw material impact.

CLEAN AIR IS ALSO OUR MISSION

Going forward, we are also dedicated to focusing on one more area: the positive impact of clean air on people and health.Just to indicate the magnitude of clean air’s beneficial effects, we can look at the operating costs for an office building. According to REHVA Guidebook 6, utilities represent slightly more than one percent of the total cost, while salaries are approximately 84 percent of total costs. If poor air quality increases employee absenteeism and reduces work efficiency, it can easily cost much more than the whole cost spent on energy. What would happen if we could instead increase productivity by 1 percent by providing clean air and a healthier work environment? At Camfil, we believe this can be accomplished with the right air quality.