Our Commitment to Sustainability
At Gebrema, sustainability is not just a goal, it’s part of who we are. Since 1950, we’ve embraced what we call a Dutch “zuinigheid” mindset: using resources carefully, avoiding waste, and getting the most out of every material, every machine, and every hour.
This traditional Dutch value — zuinigheid — shapes how we think and operate. It means being resource-conscious, respectful, and efficient in everything we do.
As a responsible European manufacturer, we take proactive steps to minimise our environmental impact. Our approach is practical, long-term, and rooted in daily habits of care and improvement. Here’s how we put that into practice:
Harnessing Solar Energy
To reduce our reliance on non-renewable energy sources, we’ve installed 1,405 solar panels on-site. These panels generate approximately 450,000 kWh of clean energy annually, covering a significant portion of our energy needs and helping us lower our carbon footprint. This investment in renewable energy reflects our long-term commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Cleaner Air and Energy Efficiency with Advanced Filtration
To maintain a healthier environment and reduce emissions, we’ve installed 80 electrostatic oil filters throughout our factory. These filters effectively capture oil mist produced during manufacturing, significantly improving air quality within the factory.
What makes this system truly impactful is its dual benefit: not only does it allow us to recycle the captured oil mist, but it also enables us to retain the heat generated by our machinery within the building. By reusing this warmth, we’ve been able to drastically reduce our reliance on gas heating, making our operations more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.
Recycling for a Circular Economy
We believe in making the most of our resources. Every month, we recycle 55 tonnes of brass and steel—ensuring that valuable materials are repurposed and given a new life instead of going to waste. This not only conserves resources but also reduces the environmental impact of raw material extraction.
Energy-Efficient Lighting
We’ve replaced traditional lighting with 366 metres of LED lighting throughout our facilities. LED lights consume far less energy while providing optimal illumination, ensuring a safer and more efficient workspace. This upgrade has resulted in a 70% reduction in CO₂ emissions from lighting, showcasing how small changes can have a big environmental impact.
Insulation and Heat Retention
We’ve taken significant steps to optimise our building’s energy efficiency by adding insulation and installing automatic doors. These features work together to retain the heat generated by our machines, keeping our working environment warm even during the coldest months. As a result, we’ve reduced our heating energy requirements by an impressive 50%, further decreasing our reliance on gas heating.
