We are also concerned to operate always in compliance with the legal standards for the solid, liquid and gaseous emissions that are inevitably created by industrial processes. As part of our expansion program during the year, for instance, we included the installation of a catalytic incinerator. This is a very expensive and large-scale item of equipment, but it enabled us to adapt gaseous emissions to meet the strictest international parameters, and it is now in normal operation.

For liquid effluents, which are already treated before discharge, we began an innovative research program together with the State University of Campinas – Unicamp in 2001. The aim was to develop even more advanced and economically viable solution specifically focused on the features of the effluents at Elekeiroz.

As a signatory to the worldwide “Responsible Care Program”, in 2001 we continued with the introduction of the recommended procedures.

Another point worth highlighting was that we continued to organize recycling programs in the company that involved selective collection and use of industrial waste, cups and plastic materials, paper, glass etc. This not only benefited us in the sense of improving the working environment for our 384 collaborators but also had the important role of raising individual awareness – and employees’ families awareness too – in relation to what we consider to be an important aspect of community life.