Jotun Paints, leading producers and suppliers of paints and coatings, said it plans to  increase its energy efficiency to 6 per cent by next year in line with aims to further ‘green’ practices.

“We understand that achieving a sustainable environment is a daunting task, which is why in addition to taking significant steps in spreading awareness on this issue, we are also observing practical yet effective measures to increase our energy efficiency," said Trine Finnevolden, general manager, Jotun Paints UAE.

More than 1,000 tonnes of waste material were recycled last year at its UAE-based plant, he said at a function to mark ‘World Environment Day.’

The company marked the Environment Day by involving employees and their families in a series of competitions – poster design, slogan writing and environment quiz.

Naji Alradhi, head of Waste Treatment Section, Waste Management Department, Dubai Municipality and  Rashed Mohammed Karkain, head of Technical Support and Studies Section, Waste Management Department, Dubai Municipality took part in the event on Thursday and presented prizes to the winners.

As a major part of the company’s environmental initiatives, Jotun Paints’ massive waste reduction programs have resulted in the processing of 8.22 tonnes of powder, 30.44 tonnes of solvent, and 975.25 tonnes of water wastes last year.

It has also assembled a designated team to lead its multiple ‘green’ initiatives, which are focused on conserving resources through the practice of reducing, reusing, recycling and responsible disposal within its manufacturing processes.

In addition, the company has adopted a water-based production system, installed new energy-efficient compressors and replaced centralised A/C condenser coils – all in an effort to boost efficiency and reduce power consumption.

"These include steps such as reducing the load on our air conditioning system during silent hours and regulating our office lightings," he added.

"One of our major achievements last year was receiving a third party certification for the low volatile organic compound (VOC) levels of our paints and coatings," he noted.

"This, combined with our commitment to adopt leading-edge ‘green’ manufacturing technologies and the support of the Dubai Government, motivates us to pursue further eco-friendly initiatives in the future," Finnevolden stated.

Jotun Paints offers a range of eco-friendly paints to the regional market including ‘Jotashield Thermo’, ‘Jotashield SuperDurable, ‘Jotashield Heritage High Build’ and ‘Fenomastic Emulsion’.

All products are being manufactured through a unique recycling process of the cleaning water.

As the only paint manufacturer that is a member of the Emirates Green Building Council and a corporate member of Emirates Environment Group (EEG), Jotun has undertaken several environment-centric initiatives in the UAE.

These include a tree planting activity in Jebal Ali Hazardous Waste Treatment Facility, which was completed in collaboration with the Dubai Municipality.

"By actively involving our employees and their families and recognising their efforts during the World Environment Day, we hope to strengthen our commitment to protecting the environment as well as set a trend among other firms to pursue ecological initiatives as a significant part of their corporate social responsibility."

"We are taking significant efforts in support of the conservation program of the Dubai Municipality, and we are proud to work with them in raising awareness for sustainable and equitable development," he added.

“Jotun Paints has been a model of corporate responsibility in terms of eco-friendly practices and assertiveness in pushing for environmental reforms within its own operations, concluded Habiba Al Marashi, chairperson, EEG and board member, UN Global Compact.

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