Company News Environmental
What are bioprocess containers?
Used daily across the scientific research and pharmaceutical industries, biocontainers have an extensive range of uses that help to streamline […]
Nov 05th, 2024
Achieving ISO 14001: A Commitment to Sustainability at ALLpaQ
ISO 14001 is an internationally recognised standard for environmental management systems. It provides a framework for organisations to enhance their environmental performance through efficient resource use and waste reduction. Achieving ISO 14001 from ISOQAR is crucial for ALLpaQ as it underscores our commitment to sustainable business practices, operational efficiency and environmental responsibility, further solidifying our dedication to excellence.
We sat down with ALLpaQ’s Finance Director, Kirsten Goddard, and Quality Coordinator, Martyna Hus, to discuss this significant achievement.
| QUOTE:
‘I am extremely proud of the ALLpaQ team for their passion and commitment to our environmental goals and social responsibilities. Achieving the ISO 14001 Accreditation at such an exceptional standard stands as a testament to the team’s dedication to ALLpaQ products and our core values.’ – Kirsten Goddard |
Q&A with Kirsten Goddard and Martyna Hus
Q: Why is ISO 14001 important to ALLpaQ?
Kirsten Goddard: ISO 14001 is essential for ALLpaQ as it underpins sustainable business practices, operational efficiency, market competitiveness, risk management, employee engagement, financial performance and innovation. This holistic approach not only helps ALLpaQ comply with regulatory requirements but also aligns with the growing global emphasis on environmental responsibility.
Q: Why did ALLpaQ decide to pursue ISO 14001 accreditation?
Martyna Hus: At ALLpaQ, we are very passionate about our environmental responsibilities and try to be forward-thinking with our actions to achieve this. This not only helps in meeting regulatory and customer requirements but also supports long-term business sustainability and growth.
Q: What, in practice, does this accreditation represent for ALLpaQ?
Kirsten Goddard: The focus on continual improvement can drive the development of innovative solutions to environmental challenges, potentially leading to new products or processes that further enhance ALLpaQ’s market position.
| QUOTE:
‘We are a company whose products are based on plastic, so it was more demanding for us to put all processes in place to gain ISO 14001 certification. But, in the end, we did it and we did it very well.’ – Martyna Hus |
Q: What benefits does it bring to ALLpaQ’s customers?
Martyna Hus: By purchasing products from a company with a globally recognised certification like ISO 14001, customers are reassured that both the company and products have been scrutinised by a third party to ensure they are produced to a high standard, they’re durable, and they’re developed by a business with ethical values.
How ALLpaQ Achieved ISO 14001
Q: Who was involved in the process?
Kirsten Goddard: The whole ALLpaQ team has been involved in ensuring we pass this accreditation with flying colours. Melody Hunt, our Operations and Quality Manager, started the process and then handed over the reins to our Quality Coordinator, Martyna Hus, who led the audit and ensured we had everything in place to achieve ISO 14001 first time. We are extremely proud of them both.
Q: What specific environmental goals and initiatives has ALLpaQ set as part of the ISO 14001 accreditation?
Martyna Hus: We have implemented processes to minimise waste generation through efficient use of materials and reduction of scrap. We have implemented advanced technologies and sustainable practices to significantly reduce air emissions and pollutants. In addition, we regularly conduct training sessions to enhance employee awareness and engagement in our environmental initiatives. Encouraging employees to adopt green practices both at work and at home.
We design and fabricate products that are more sustainable, have longer lifespans and are easier to recycle. Additionally, we’ve engaged with local communities to support environmental initiatives and awareness. We’ve also reviewed our supply chains to make greener purchasing choices wherever possible.
Q: How will you continue to monitor and improve your environmental performance?
Kirsten Goddard: We have an amazing Sustainability Team led by Jake Hunt and Bernadette Coote, with team members from different departments across ALLpaQ, ensuring we continually monitor our performance. Our processes align with the ISO 14001 standard and support us in continual improvement. ALLpaQ is in its third year of measuring its carbon footprint and has established annual, measurable goals to reduce its environmental impact. These objectives are regularly reviewed to ensure ongoing progress.
| QUOTE:
‘It was challenging for me because I joined the team in the middle of the preparation process, so I had to catch up with many things including all processes that ALLpaQ have in place, learn more about the business and what ISO 14001 means to ALLpaQ. This was my first time leading a project that was so important for the business, so I was a little bit nervous. Thanks to a great team and big support from everyone I was able to quickly catch up, support and help to gain this certification.’ – Martyna Hus |
Q: What other sustainability certifications have you achieved?
Martyna Hus: The ALLpaQ Sustainability Team is in the process of completing our first submission for B Corp. We currently hold the Silver EcoVadis standard and are putting actions in place to achieve the Gold standard.
Q: Are you pursuing any more accreditations (that you can talk about)?
Kirsten Goddard: Yes, we’re looking to start the process for ISO 45001, which focuses on improving health and safety in the workplace. It’s all about creating safer working conditions and reducing risks. We’re also aiming for ISO 26000, which guides us on social responsibility, helping us operate ethically and contribute to sustainable development.
