The Amica Capital Group aims to actively participate in reducing the negative impact of the industry on climate and the environment, not only within the scope of its manufacturing and commercial activities, but also by providing products that assist customers in transitioning to a low-carbon economy and fully meet their evolving preferences.
Greenhouse gas emissions are a primary cause of climate change. By managing these emissions—either by increasing or decreasing the release of greenhouse gases—Amica Capital Group influences the pace at which climate change occurs. The Group has a direct impact on greenhouse gas emissions originating from fuel combustion at its production facilities, installations, and vehicles, as well as from the consumption of purchased electricity (Scope 1 and 2).
The carbon footprint of the Amica Capital Group for Scope 1 and 2 in 2023 amounts to 23,547.96 tCO2e (location-based), representing a decrease of approximately 8.6% compared to 2022. The results obtained using the market-based method were nearly 2% higher.
The Scope 3 carbon footprint amounted to 3,651,511 tCO2e, representing a 13.7% decrease compared to the previous year. Due to the nature of the products sold by the Amica Group, end-user consumption has the greatest impact on emissions. The products sold consume electricity or gas, significantly contributing to greenhouse gas emissions throughout their lifecycle. The estimated carbon footprint from the usage phase accounts for 85% of the indirect emissions reported in Scope 3, while the carbon footprint associated with purchased raw materials and finished goods accounts for 12% of Scope 3 emissions.
The Circular Economy (CE) is a concept that emphasizes the rational use of resources and the preservation of the value of produced goods. The core principle of the circular economy is to ensure that all materials continually circulate within the economy, minimizing the need to extract them from primary sources. Products should be created from reused raw materials or produced in a sustainable manner. Furthermore, at the end of their life cycle, they should be suitable for repurposing, both as components and as recycled materials.
In response to evolving trends and regulatory requirements related to the circular economy, the Amica Group has initiated actions aimed at developing a roadmap toward circularity. The underlying principles and planned projects for implementation were developed by Amica professionals representing various expertise areas during three workshops facilitated by an external consulting firm.
A. Testing Circular Business Models
B. Communicating the Benefits of Simpler Instructions and Products
2. Optimization of component diversity
3. Reduction of plastic production
4. Increase in production at our own manufacturing facility
C. Reduction of the Amount of Plastics Used
D. In-House Printing of Ceramic Glass
E. Reduction of Component Variety
F. Digital Product Passport
G. Design Focused on Product Longevity
H. Monitoring of Product Lifecycle Post-Warranty
In 2022, work commenced on the construction of a modern automatic wastewater treatment plant, with commissioning scheduled for the second half of 2024. Until the plant is operational, wastewater will be directed to the municipal treatment facility. The wastewater is analyzed in accordance with the integrated permit, which entails quarterly testing conducted by an accredited laboratory.
Water consumption is continuously monitored throughout the entire production process. Most rinsing machines are equipped with rotameters that accurately dispense specified amounts of water. As a result, water usage is kept to a minimum. The final rinse is conducted using demineralized water, which is consistently regenerated to conserve water in the ion exchange columns or in the reverse osmosis system.
At the same time, all actions are aimed at minimizing the volume of wastewater generated. Technological baths are prolonged through continuous regeneration (centrifugation), which leads to a reduction in wastewater output. Consequently, the decrease in wastewater directly impacts the reduced generation of waste materials such as neutralization sludge and activated carbon.
Waste management at the Group's manufacturing facility in Wronki is conducted in compliance with Polish regulations, including the maintenance of Waste Records and Waste Transfer Notes, as well as in accordance with the ISO 14001 standard.
The Amica S.A. production facility possesses the necessary technical means and designated areas for the proper storage of waste on-site. In 2021, an investment was made to construct a new waste storage facility, consisting of several shelters divided into compartments where waste is stored selectively in designated areas. This is done in a manner that prevents contamination of soil and water and restricts access to unauthorized individuals. All waste is stored in covered areas, while liquid waste is contained in compartments with separate drainage connected to a non-drainable tank. Additionally, to optimize the entire process, materials such as paper and plastic films are subjected to compacting.
have been developed from the outset with consideration for environmental criteria and in accordance with the EU eco-design requirements, which means they:
• exhibit high energy efficiency,
• are resource-efficient, minimizing the consumption of other natural resources such as water,
• are designed for repairability (availability of spare parts) and recyclability.
Amica has implemented cogeneration (the simultaneous production of electricity and usable heat in a combined heat and power plant) into its production process, emphasizing a reduction in environmental impact and an increase in energy efficiency. This investment will contribute to a remarkable reduction in CO2 emissions by 5,076.59 tons annually, representing a significant step towards minimizing the carbon footprint.
The implementation of cogeneration has a direct impact on reducing electricity purchase costs. This translates into savings for the company and, in the future, potentially lower prices for consumers. Amica also plans to take advantage of guaranteed premiums for electricity generated through cogeneration, which represents another step towards more sustainable production practices.
New models of Cross-door, Side by Side, and French door refrigerators and freezers have been launched on the market. The product portfolio has been expanded to include new beverage coolers featuring transparent doors.
New functionalities have also been implemented, including a variable temperature freezer compartment that can be converted into a fresh food compartment functioning as a refrigerator.
Additionally, antibacterial technologies have been implemented to eliminate odors, bacteria, and extend the shelf life of food products.
All products in this category have been reclassified to new energy efficiency levels.
The portfolio has been expanded to include a new line of top-loading washing machines, "Top Loader".
Heat pump dryers utilizing the eco-friendly R290 gas as well as washer-dryer combinations have been introduced to the market.
These products incorporate technologies designed to combat microorganisms, such as UV light that neutralizes viruses and bacteria, antibacterial door seals, steam functions, and the Vario system that optimizes washing cycles.
In washing machines and dishwashers, an EcoBar indicator has been implemented to provide information on approximate energy and water consumption for each program, allowing for parameter selection based on individual preferences.
Selected dishwasher models now also feature a "Water Tank" system that reduces overall water consumption by approximately 20%.
New models with ozone generators have been introduced, enabling the neutralization of odors in indoor environments.
Additionally, built-in models featuring scent sensors have been implemented to automate the air purification and exchange process.
The development of features and design of lighting in new range hoods has continued, with a focus on separating basic and decorative lighting, thereby enhancing the possibilities for interior décor arrangements.
Furthermore, a new range of telescopic hoods with split grease filters has been launched.
In this product category, we continued the dynamic development of our entire portfolio of "small" household appliances. We expanded the range of wireless "Handstick" vacuum cleaners, initiated the sale of air purification products, and launched new models of milk frothers featuring a detachable beverage container.
