Van der Ende Group is steadily pursuing its ambition to achieve a 20% reduction in CO₂ emissions by 2025 compared to the base year 2021. We previously reported that, excluding Canada, we had achieved an absolute reduction of 19% and even 38% in relation to turnover. We have now also started actively implementing sustainability measures at our location in Belgium, where Quality Pumps & Machines (QPM) is based.
A thorough sustainability overhaul is currently underway at Quality Pumps & Machines. The building is being better insulated and equipped with energy-efficient LED lighting. In addition, the layout of the building is being modified: walls are being moved to make more efficient use of space, which also contributes to more optimal climate control. Internal transport is being made more sustainable by switching to electric forklift trucks, and we are investigating whether additional solar panels can be installed to generate an even larger proportion of our own energy consumption sustainably.
This step is in line with our broader strategy, as laid down in the CO₂ Management Plan and the Sustainable Real Estate Management Action Plan. The emphasis is on improving energy efficiency at all our locations, using the insights from the energy assessments and the footprint analysis per location as a guide.
In addition, we continue to focus internally on raising awareness and actively involving our employees. Through the communication plan, colleagues in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Canada are kept continuously informed of progress and opportunities to contribute to the objectives themselves.
Finally, we will also continue to actively participate in chain initiatives such as Plant Empowerment, through which we exchange knowledge within the sector and contribute to broader sustainability.