ESG sustainability strategy

AALTER – System scaffolding manufacturer Afix Group (Belgium) is proud to launch its ESG sustainability policy. As a dynamic player in the scaffolding industry, Afix Group with branches in UK is aware of the environmental, social and policy (ESG) impact its business activities can have. Responding to new European regulations, Afix Group aims to integrate various ESG criteria into its core activities and corporate culture.

In September 2020, Stephan Hillaert was recruited by Afix Group to strengthen the international structure and achieve expansion. Afix Group had a nice evolution over the past 3 years with turnover almost tripling from €19 to €55m. By now also stepping into the ESG story, strategy and reporting, he wants to create more transparency in Afix operations both to stakeholders, suppliers and customers.

Four sustainability pillars

Afix Group's Sustainability Policy, based on long-term thinking and a holistic approach, revolves around four pillars:

• Climate action
  We want to realize our economic and social value with as little environmental impact as possible. Therefore, in line with the EU Green Deal, we will reduce the carbon footprint of our operations and products.
  
  
• Quality
  We aim to satisfy customers by delivering quality in an efficient manner. We guarantee this through our focus on efficient processes and product certification.
  
  
• People first
  Innovative ideas, employee expertise and energy are key to developing Afix Group for the future and maintaining our leading position in the European market. Our people are our most valuable asset that we treat very carefully.
  
  
• Social responsibility
  We follow the guidelines prescribed by CSRD (Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive) and develop adequate procedures for risk management, corruption, antitrust, ethics, supplier relations, ...

CO2 reduction in five steps

Together with and under the guidance of Sustacon, expert in sustainability solutions for the construction industry, a plan is drawn up iom measuring and reducing the carbon footprint. System scaffolding is a sustainable product. Afix Fast scaffolding is manufactured in quality steel that is long-lasting. In addition, these scaffolding products are modular, allowing various applications to be realised with a minimum of components (masonry scaffolding, suspended scaffolding, renovation scaffolding, tank scaffolding, etc.). The scaffolding components are mainly produced from S355 and S235 steel which allows maximum recycling.

• Measuring carbon footprint
  In collaboration with Sustacon, we conduct a thorough assessment of our carbon emissions, understanding their impact on our products and potential climate risks.
  
  
• Developing strategy and targets
  We are developing a clear strategy with measurable targets and a roadmap. This will guide our efforts to reduce carbon emissions in the coming years.
  
  
• Reducing carbon footprint
  Implementing efficiency measures, investing in renewable energy and decarbonising our supply chain are crucial steps to actively reduce our carbon footprint.
  
  
• Integrate carbon offset programmes
  
  To control production emissions, Afix Group will initiate carbon offset programmes that balance environmental impact to support sustainability.
  
  
• Stakeholder engagement
  Through a sustainability report and ongoing dialogue, we continue to communicate transparently with our partners, customers and industry stakeholders.

Building a sustainable future

Afix Group's sustainability initiatives are more than a statement; they are a comprehensive strategy supported by tangible actions. As we focus on reducing our environmental impact, we invite our B2B audience in construction, industry, infrastructure professionals and event management to join us in this journey towards a more sustainable future.

Stephan Hillaert, CEO of Afix Group, said:
"Our sustainability journey demonstrates responsible business practices. By integrating ESG principles into our operations, we are investing together with industry peers, in a sustainable future.”

Hans Verboven, Founder Sustacon:
"Working with Afix Group on their sustainability initiative shows the growing trend of companies recognising the importance of measuring, reducing and offsetting their carbon footprint. We are proud to contribute to this transformative journey."

More information
​​Read ScaffMag article

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