Aluminium is our business
At UNEX Systems, sustainability isn't just a buzzword; it's a commitment woven into the fabric of our operations. As a local business, we recognise the urgent need to address environmental concerns, particularly in our manufacturing processes.
Our dedication to sustainability drives every decision we make, from product design to supplier partnerships.
Why Aluminium Matters
Aluminium stands at the forefront of our transition away from fossil fuels towards sustainable alternatives. Its importance cannot be overstated, especially considering the projected 40% increase in demand by 2030¹. This versatile metal boasts a multitude of properties—odourless, malleable, conductive, corrosion-resistant, lightweight, and strong—that make it indispensable across various industries.
One of aluminium's most remarkable features is its recyclability. It is infinitely recyclable, meaning it can be recycled over and over again without any loss of quality. In fact, an estimated 75% of all aluminium ever produced is still in use today², highlighting its crucial role in fostering a circular and sustainable economy.
¹ Opportunities For Aluminium In A Post-Covid Economy, CRU International study (on behalf of the International Aluminium Institute (IAI)) (Mar, 2022)
² The Aluminium Association (2021), Infinitely Recyclable, Washington DC
Our Sustainable Approach
At UNEX, sustainability is more than just a goal; it's a mindset. We're committed to reducing waste, reusing materials wherever possible, and recycling relentlessly. Our approach is simple yet effective, rooted in practical policies that minimize our environmental footprint.
Actions
We are committed to simple and practicable policies that will contribute to a clean and sustainable environment, as summarised below;
- Minimize wastage
- Recycling aluminium waste
- Separating and recycling paper and cardboard waste
- Select suppliers with responsible sustainability policies
- Use modern technology with low electricity consumption
- Selection of recyclable materials for our products wherever practicably possible (e.g. aluminium)
Using low-carbon aluminum that is born here
Our main supplier, Altus, is committed to a sustainable supply source. For more than 50 years the Manapouri Hydro Station has been generating electricity 200m underground in Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. All of its 600+ megawatts of clean energy feeds directly into New Zealand’s Aluminum Smelter at Tiwai Point where some of the world’s cleanest and greenest aluminium is produced. The carbon footprint of aluminium produced at Tiwai is about four times lower than the global industry average.
