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How are we addressing sustainability?
Erick Herbst, Applications Manager - MPE West explains how Multotec is addressing sustainability.
WOW! How the concept of sustainability has changed over the last couple of decades. This is no longer the term whispered softly by ‘greenies’ in the corridors. It’s now a core policy concept in the global public discourse.
The original semantic meaning of the word refers to the ability to continue over a long period of time. In terms of the broader global public discourse, sustainability is based on three pillars: environmental, economic and social. In terms of sustainable development, the view of the younger generations (Gen X and Millennials) can be summarised in the following definition, in my opinion: Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
It must be noted that MPE went through a restructuring at the end of 2021, with some ongoing growth changes still happening. This has resulted in a structure that is based on functions and is no longer product focused. With that said, the operations environment is still product focused, mainly due to the physical location and nature of these operations.
Multotec, including MPE, will be going for our Stage 1 and 2 certifications for ISO 14001 (Environmental) towards the end of 2022. This is an international standard that sets out the requirements for an environmental management system. Some of the global sustainability topics that MPE – Cyclones is participating in are covered below.
Water Conservation – Partnership with the Water Network 
The cyclone operations have a leak test station where complete cyclone assemblies are leak tested to ensure that no slurry will leak from the unit once delivered to site. Some of the cyclones have large internal volumes and require a lot of water. Instead of using only fresh water for these tests, a water recycling system was implemented. In addition, a rainwater catchment system was installed to utilise the large rooftop catchment area already available.
Energy Management / Sustainable Buildings – Relationship with the Energy Network 
A simple way of ensuring lower energy usage to supply lighting to the warehouses and factory buildings at MPE – Cyclones is through the use of skylights. This is a low-cost innovation that utilises the natural light available throughout sunlight hours to supply light for the personnel working in these buildings. There are also plans in place to replace these skylights with energy efficient LED lighting solutions, which could potentially be powered by Multotec’s own solar energy system.
From a sales perspective, we try to ensure that our clients have optimal stock-holding levels. This reduces stress on our manufacturing and business processes, by minimising urgent order deliveries or expediting requests. It also contributes towards the sustainable operations of the mineral processing facilities of our clients, so that we play our small part in their value chain.
Sustainability issues do not always need to be solved through fancy new ideas and concepts. We should all keep our eyes open for opportunities where we add value, no matter how small it may seem.