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FRESENIUS KABI

Fresenius Kabi also assumes active responsibility for environmental protection. The continuous improvement of product quality to the patient’s benefit goes hand in hand with selective environmental measures that take local regulations into account. In 2007, a matrix certification to environment standard 14001:2004 was introduced. Initially, five plants in Europe and Asia will take part in this cross-location certification process. The first phase is due to be completed in early 2008.

The materials recycling system at our plant in Friedberg, Germany, was further optimized in 2007. The sort-clean separation of plastics enabled a substantial increase in the volume recycled by regranulation. The other plastics are used to produce refuse derived fuel. The volume of recycled waste increased from approximately 5,800 tons in 2006 to over 7,000 tons in 2007. The higher volume of waste is the result of substantial growth in production volumes at the Friedberg plant. The recycling rate improved to over 94% (2006: just under 94%). 

A project group had already been set up at the Friedberg plant in 2006 to implement energy-saving measures. In 2007, frequency-controlled blower ventilators were installed for instance. The motors on the ventilators automatically regulate output according to the given power requirement, thereby optimizing running times and the volume of waste water. This measure reduces C02 emissions by about 3,300 tons a year. In addition to the primary aim of environmental protection, the measures have also reduced energy costs.

At our plant in Graz, Austria, the focus in 2007 was on implementing the ISO 14001:2004 environmental management system. The certification is due to take place in January 2008. Here, too, waste collection and sorting was improved. In close collaboration with suppliers Fresenius Kabi also modified processes to initiate direct and indirect environmental protection measures. Resources have been saved and waste volumes substantially reduced for instance through a change in the processing of clean-room clothing, including a reduction in the packaging.

At the Linz site in Austria, Fresenius Kabi only employs qualified waste management companies who are committed to sound waste disposal in compliance with the regulations. Recovery and recycling take precedence over disposal. The use of press containers, for instance, reduces the volume of waste as well as transport costs for disposal. We do not use organic solvents in the production of active substances, thus reducing the impact on the environment. 

At our plant in Uppsala, Sweden, we have continued to focus on reducing emissions of greenhouse gases. In 2007, a project was also started for reducing the volume of waste by up to 30% and increasing the recycling rate. This project is accompanied by training measures for employees. Purchasing, Production and Logistics are also involved in the project, as well as the management. In production alone, the volume of waste has already been reduced by about 25%. 

FRESENIUS HELIOS

HELIOS had already organized waste disposal at its clinics according to the standards set by law earlier. The goal is cost-efficient and environmentally compatible waste disposal. We see waste management as a process that begins with purchasing, employing all the instruments of the German Packaging Code and ends with systematic recycling, for example recycling solvents or resale of infusion glass bottles. All waste materials are recorded using a standardized system and classified in corresponding waste categories. We use this data, for instance, as a basis for deciding whether to conclude contracts with regional waste management companies or to have a group-wide contract with one company.

FRESENIUS VAMED 

The health care system will also have to pay greater heed to sustainability in the future. This has to be taken into account especially in the hospital sector. As an active contribution toward environmental protection, VAMED already integrates national environmental standards and regulations in the planning and construction of a hospital or other health care facility.