Volvo Construction Equipment’s new Braås site is the first to earn the Climate Efficient Site certification, spearheading sustainability in construction.
Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) is making waves in the sustainability arena with its latest achievement.
The company’s facility in Braås, Sweden, is the first to clinch the newly introduced Climate Efficient Site certification, recognising the site’s efforts in substantially reducing CO2 emissions.
It is a significant milestone in Volvo CE’s quest to revamp its global operations. What makes this facility stand out is not just its commitment to green practices but also its alignment with Science Based Targets, a strategic initiative that steers industries towards decarbonisation.
The Braås site is historically significant as the birthplace of the articulated hauler, a pivotal innovation in construction machinery. Since achieving a carbon-neutral status in 2014—thanks to renewable energy sources like biofuel-powered district heating and hydropower—the site has not rested on its laurels.
By 2018, it reached landfill-free status, reinforcing its position as a leader in manufacturing innovation focused on minimising emissions.
A Culture of Sustainability
At the heart of Volvo CE’s new certification lies a comprehensive approach that encompasses not just direct emissions from in-house operations but also indirect emissions stemming from procured energy and those from broader activities like production, transport, and waste management. These categories are often referred to as Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions, covering all domains of environmental impact.
Setting aggressive targets for CO2 reduction is a norm at Volvo CE, as the President of Volvo CE, Melker Jernberg states: “Our commitment to drive the decarbonisation of construction remains firm which is why we constantly push ourselves to set new benchmarks for sustainability beyond the industry status quo.
He adds that the example set by the Braås facility is a powerful testament to what can be accomplished with clear goals and an engaged workforce.
Brimming with nearly 1,000 employees, the facility sprawls over 60,000 square metres wherein a culture of collaboration flourishes.
The team at Braås undertakes detailed carbon inventories to pinpoint and act on any areas for improvement, covering aspects like manufacturing processes, energy systems, waste management, and logistics. “Change is possible when people are dedicated to continuously seek improvements and act on them and here people really want to make a difference,” Lisa Krondahl, Environmental Engineer at Braås notes, emphasizing the driven nature of the workforce.
With goals transcending routine operational benchmarks, in 2023, while aiming for 40 environmental and energy enhancements, the teams impressively reported over 120 improvements. This year continues the trend with an objective of 100 further enhancements already surpassing 140 initiatives.
Driving Innovation Towards a Sustainable Future
Beyond just leveraging renewable energy, the Braås site is continuously exploring innovative avenues to optimise energy usage and maximise the efficiency of its green resources. “An energy-efficient industry is an investment in a better society, taking responsibility for our resources now and in the future,” says Mattias Hermander, Energy Expert at Braås.
Key initiatives that underscore the facility’s commitment to sustainability include transitioning to biofuels for onsite machinery, enhancing logistic collaborations with suppliers, refining waste management protocols, improving wastewater treatment, and boosting sustainable commuting options among employees. The site’s evolution is further supported by investments in electromobility, pointing to a phased introduction of electrified articulated haulers.
These progressive moves not only cement Volvo CE’s role as a pioneer in the construction sector but also illustrate the profound impact of combining innovation, collaboration, and steadfast commitment in reaching ambitious environmental goals. The ongoing successes at the Braås site provide a blueprint for sustainable practices across the industry.
