Environment
At HEF, we have adopted the circular economy as a fundamental pillar of our production philosophy. Our goal is to transition from a traditional linear industrial model to a circular system, in which consumables are obtained from the recycling of production byproducts. Waste, collected and processed using our patented technologies, is transformed into a valuable resource.
Our approach to the circular economy is based on three main pillars:
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Resource efficiency: We optimize the use of raw materials in our production lines to minimize waste and reduce consumption, relying on advanced technologies and automation.
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Waste recovery and recycling: In a circular model, waste is considered a reusable resource. In our liquid nitriding plants, we have implemented recycling processes for production waste, limiting our dependence on mined resources. In our vacuum deposition operations, end-of-life targets are sent to specialized recycling centers.
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Eco-design: We integrate eco-design principles into our circular processes to minimize environmental impact. Life Cycle Assessments, which compare linear and circular models for nitriding treatments, allow us to identify priority areas for improvement. This assessment has been carried out across all HEF Group units and constitutes a strategic tool for future decision-making.
Environmental impact measurement
Two key assessment tools within the HEF Group
With the objective of better understanding and reducing its environmental footprint, the HEF Group relies on two complementary methodologies that reinforce its long-term sustainability strategy.
Carbon footprint
The HEF Group is conducting a global carbon footprint study covering all its industrial plants worldwide. This initiative, currently in the deployment phase, is structured around the three recognized scopes: direct emissions, indirect emissions associated with energy consumption, and other indirect emissions throughout the value chain. The results for scopes 1 and 2 are scheduled for the end of March 2025. This approach is fully aligned with the Group’s decarbonization strategy and responds to the growing demand from our customers for more sustainable industrial solutions.
Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)
Life Cycle Assessment is a methodology that allows for the evaluation of the environmental impacts of a product or process throughout its entire life cycle, from raw material extraction to waste management. This method analyzes around fifteen environmental indicators, including carbon footprint, fossil resource consumption, and water usage.
As part of its eco-design approach, the HEF Group uses LCA as a key tool to identify areas for improvement and reduce environmental impacts. A recent example is the comparative study conducted on liquid nitriding with and without Greencenter technology. The results of this analysis, currently undergoing critical review by an independent body, will be available between mid and late 2025.
These initiatives actively contribute to reducing environmental impact, transitioning towards more sustainable industrial processes, and strengthening innovation and resource efficiency within the HEF Group. They are part of a global continuous improvement approach aimed at ensuring the durability and long-term performance of our technologies.