Sustainability. Eco-friendly. Low carbon footprint. Environmental consciousness.
These are all great words that brands love to throw around, but talk is cheap, as the saying goes. The proof is in the practice.
There are plenty of contractors out there who talk the talk in this department but fail to walk the walk. ‘Going green’ is about more than setting up recycling bins outside your business. More consumers are holding brands to higher standards than just good quality and great service.
Honest, ethical, sustainable business practices that protect, preserve and prioritise our natural resources matter. So the question is: how do all your suppliers measure up?
Sustainability standards at Summit
Sustainability forms the foundation of how we operate. Here are some of our core sustainability values:
-
Zero waste policy
We have always believed that we have a responsibility to take care of our precious environmental resources and help our customers do the same. In addition to our commitment to recycling and using recycled materials wherever possible, we have proudly adopted a zero waste policy, especially for our timber products:
- Lower grade cuts of wood are repurposed for wood laminate products
- Any timber not used in production is used as fuel for our boilers that kiln-dry the wood
- Leftover shavings or sawdust are packed and sold to local farmers for chicken bedding
-
Energy efficiency
Ensuring energy efficiency and producing energy-efficient products is another way that we do business sustainably:
- Our aluminium window frames are SANS 613 certified and compliant
- Our products are tested for deflection, structural strength, water resistance, air-tightness, operating forces, and overall energy efficiency
- Our insulation products are highly energy efficient thanks to the latest insulation tech
-
Durability
We have always valued quality as a core business value. But did you know that the combination of durability and quality is linked to our carbon footprint? In fact, the better our product quality is, the better it is for the environment. For example:
- Our Knauf mineral wool insulation features a revolutionary binder technology called ECOSE ® technology, a highly sustainable building material. This technology results in a reduced environmental impact thanks to its lower embodied energy. It also reduces pollutant emissions and workplace exposures during manufacturing.
- Our innovative SummitBoard not only makes buildings more energy-efficient, but producing it yields no harmful waste. It is 100% recyclable, and its exceptionally long lifespan reduces its overall carbon footprint. It is affordable, 100% locally-made and manufactured in the Swartland factory, following strict global warming potential protocols to ensure a zero ozone depletion potential rating.
-
Sustainability sourced materials
Partnering with suppliers that are sustainably-minded can have a powerful ripple effect. Our commitment to sustainable sourcing allows you to offer the same commitment to your customers:
- All our timber is sourced from sustainable FSC- and FLEGT-certified mills
- Only the best woodcuts are used to create the finest, premium quality products, like our wooden window and door frames
- Our aluminium materials are 100% recyclable
-
Good business ethics
Our commitment to sustainability started at the beginning of our business journey back in Moorreesburg in 1951. Our Swartland founders knew that to make a lasting impact they would need to invest in a sustainable future for our people, our business and our environment. So they built a brand based on a rock-solid, honest reputation… and 70 years later we continue to walk the walk as our business grows and thrives.
We hope to help you do the same for yours.
Does sustainability matter to you and your business? Let’s talk!
We would love to partner with your business to help reduce your carbon footprint. Contact us for a quote today or browse our website to read more about our sustainable product range.
