photovoltaic system on sedak production hall in Gersthofen. ©HG Esch

our green agenda: sustainability efforts at sedak

We at sedak are committed to sustainability in all aspects of our operations. From using eco-friendly production processes to sourcing materials responsibly, sedak strives to minimize its environmental impact while delivering exceptional glass solutions. 

sedak has been certified according to ISO 50001:2018 for its energy management system since 2015. This certification necessitates the recording of sedak's energy flows, encompassing energy sources and consumers, as well as identifying processes and plants with the highest energy consumption. In adherence to these requirements, sedak meticulously monitors and manages its energy usage to optimize efficiency and minimize environmental impact. 

Let's build a brighter, more sustainable future together, one glass panel at a time. Check out our efforts how we start to driving positive change:


Renewable energy mix & energy savings

80% of sedak's electricity consumption comes from renewable sources, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and lowering carbon emissions.

Additionally, we have implemented a series of energy-saving measures, including:

Switching lighting to LED
 Replacement of air conditioning and ventilation systems as well as old compressors
 Restructuring of the compressed air network
 Introduction of machine shutdown schedules
 Equipping major energy consumers with meters


photovoltaic system

Since 2021, sedak has been generating its own electricity with PV plants. This electricity is consumed directly in production. The plant is continuously being expanded and currently, with a module surface of over 8,000 square meters (4,000 modules), it supplies about 1,700,000 kWh per year. This means that about 13% of sedak's total energy consumption comes from solar energy. Another plant is currently planned to further increase the share of green electricity.


e-mobility

sedak employs electric vehicles for internal factory transport, fostering emission-free transportation within the facility. The sedak eFlitzer, a pre-owned vehicle, resonates with principles of resource preservation and sustainability. Furthermore, sedak advocates for the installation of on-site e-charging stations, facilitating the shift to electric vehicles and promoting eco-friendly commuting habits.


waste reduction

At sedak, we implement strategies for waste reduction and recycling programs to minimize waste generation and promote a circular approach to resource management. 100% of our glass waste is recycled, i.e. melted down and reprocessed into glass. More than 95% of our waste is collected by type and recycled accordingly. Cuttings from our PVB and SG films are collected and returned to the supplier, who melts them down and reprocesses them. By returning them, we reduce the amount of waste we produce.

 


water conservation

Implementation of water-saving measures to minimize water consumption and reduce environmental impact, e.g. through the use of water-saving technologies in production processes. Water consumption for glass grinding was already reduced by around 60% 5 years ago by switching from fresh water to treated water. 


supply chain sustainability

Collaboration with suppliers and partners to promote sustainability throughout the supply chain, including sourcing materials responsibly and supporting ethical and environmentally friendly practices. From our business partners, i.e., our suppliers, contractors, and subcontractors, we expect adherence to the following principles as a prerequisite for cooperation:

- Respect for the human rights of all employees and subcontractors
- Refrain from bribery and unfair influence (corruption)
- Compliance with laws against child labor
- Adherence to health and safety regulations for employees
- Compliance with environmental protection
- Observance of legal obligations and payment of all necessary taxes and duties


green architecture integration

Sustainability, resource conservation, and green architecture principles are integral to sedak's glass solutions, ensuring that products contribute to sustainable building practices and reduce environmental impact.

 


continuous innovation

Sustainability is also about continuous innovation. sedak is committed to ongoing innovation to make processes and glass greener, exploring new technologies and practices to minimize environmental footprint and promote sustainability. Quality is also a point of sustainability. High-quality products from sedak contribute to material reduction and longevity. Outstanding developments such as sedak tempered+ and vacuum bag lamination increase durability and contribute to the improvement of buildings.


employee engagement

At sedak, we foster a strong team culture and have embraced the motto "together everyone achieves more." When #teamsedak collaborates, we not only strengthen our work relationships but also promote innovation and excellence. Our culture is based on mutual respect, support, and a strong sense of community. Each member of #teamsedak contributes to our shared vision and is valued.