The actions of the VOA are part of a national (Verre Avenir) and European (European Container Glass Federation) movement whose aim is to recycle 75% of glass coming from households. More than 7 glass bottles out of 10 are recycled in France, that’s 74.6 %. Recycling issues aim to improve the environmental footprint, respect the environment, create economic and social value, and preserve natural resources for the future generations.
Ecological stake
Recycling enables to avoid the disposal of more than 2 million tons of household waste.
Environmental benefits
Glass is 100% and indefinitely recyclable.
Using cullet (waste glass for melting down to be reused) and mixing raw natural materials (sand, limestone and sodium carbonate) requires less energy power and reduces the impact on the environment. In this way, using up to 95% of cullet in our furnaces, means:
- Saving raw materials, water and energy;
- Reducing CO2 emissions;
- Reducing household waste;
- Improving energy efficiency in the process.
The modernization of the 2 VOA furnaces has allowed a reduction of the environmental footprint by 5 to 8 %.
Regional dynamics
VOA is a responsible actor in the local community. Since 1980, it recycles glass in the Occitanie region, in partnership with local and regional groups.
Eco conception
The ECOVA label is conceived to optimize the production process and to reduce environmental footprint as much as possible.
- Added cullet: 10 % extra cullet allows a 3 % reduction in energy and a 5 % reduction in CO2 emission;
- Client proximity: haulage costs and CO2 emission are reduced through client proximity;
- Electrofilters enable the reduction of dust emissions.
ISO 14001 certification
VOA-Verrerie d’Albi and Verallia’s factories are ISO 14001 certified. The ISO 14000 standard provides practical tools for business managers, staff and partners looking to improve their environmental performance.
