AkzoNobel unveils $28M eco-friendly plant in Faisalabad

The new plant includes a forest.

AkzoNobel has recently inaugurated a $28 million manufacturing facility in Faisalabad, notable not just for its scale but also for its integration of a dedicated forest area within the premises. 

Fred Moreux, AkzoNobel’s South Asia Pacific Manufacturing and Supply Chain Director, said that the company has adopted the Miyawaki method, a Japanese technique known for its ability to create dense, mini-forests, which is particularly suited for the limited space available at the site.

"This method not only generates oxygen but also significantly reduces our carbon footprint, creating a healthier environment for our workforce," Moreux said.

The new manufacturing facility is the company’s largest investment in Pakistan to date.

"Sustainability is a core value for AkzoNobel. When we initiated the Faisalabad factory, embedding sustainability into every aspect was a given," Moreux added. 

The sustainability efforts extend beyond the mere presence of a forest. Moreux elaborated on the forest's role in the company's broader environmental goals. 

“The Faisalabad forest is expected to release almost 10 tonnes of oxygen annually and absorb about 15 tonnes of carbon within the next 12 to 18 months as it matures. This is a crucial part of our strategy to reduce our carbon footprint and a model we hope to replicate across our other sites,” he noted.

Moreover, the Faisalabad site is a beacon of sustainable expansion for AkzoNobel. From the outset, the plant was designed with a focus on sustainability, particularly in how energy is managed. 

“We utilise solar energy extensively and employ state-of-the-art equipment that is not only energy efficient but also boosts productivity. Furthermore, we have advanced our zero-waste ambitions, striving to recover and recycle as much as possible,” Moreux explained. 

The site’s significant reliance on solar energy and its commitment to waste reduction underline AkzoNobel’s commitment to sustainable practices. Moreux also revealed plans to increase the use of solar energy further, aiming for the Faisalabad site to become 100% solar energy-dependent by 2030.

Looking ahead, Moreux is optimistic about the impact of these sustainability initiatives. Over the next 12 to 24 months, he anticipates these efforts will greatly enhance AkzoNobel's sustainability strategy. 

“This is not just about how we produce our products but about influencing the entire ecosystem. We are focused on driving efficiency and enhancing customer service, thereby creating more value and emphasising our commitment to sustainability,” he stated.