Cleaning Hygiene Today Cleaning Hygiene Magazine
Held at GE Aerospace’s Nantgarw site, it focused on sustainability in manufacturing with leaders from the sector across the region discussing the importance of sustainability across all business operations and what they were doing in their organisation to drive sustainable growth.
Hosted by ITV Wales reporter Carole Green, the panel included prominent voices from manufacturing in Wales, including:
- Rachel Morath, UKN Responsible Care Director at DOW
- David Hoare, Head of Communications, Compliance & Ethics at GE Aerospace (Wales)
- Jackie Pearson, Director of Corporate Affairs at Shotton Mill
- Leighton John, Director of Operations at The Royal Mint
- Simon Pritchard, CEO at Philtronics
GE Aerospace is a global leader in aircraft engine servicing and maintenance. David Hoare’s contribution focussed on sustainable operations and how the company is building a sustainable talent pipeline aimed at future growth.
Dow manufactures silicone-based products as well as electronics, semi-conductors, healthcare, cosmetics, household care, textiles, construction, automotive, defence, aviation, aerospace, renewable energy and batteries from its base in Barry. Rachel Morath discussed an insight into the company’s transformation and adaptability to a more sustainable future.
Jackie Pearson of Shotton Mill shared investment plans for the future of the Deeside mill, which currently recycles more than 830,000 tonnes of paper annually into new products like tissue and container board. Its decarbonisation strategy includes wind and solar energy, hydrogen generation and anaerobic digestion to power their operations with 100 per cent recycled raw materials.
Leighton John, Director of Operations at the Royal Mint explained how the group has diversified to go beyond coin production and now leads in sustainable precious metal recovery. Its Local Energy Centre powers the 38-acre manufacturing site at Llantrisant with wind, solar and battery storage.
Simon Pritchard, CEO at Philtronics in Aberdare, called on all manufacturers assembled at the discussion to work together and share best practice to help with sustainability targets. A contract electronics manufacturer, Philtronics currently reduces its carbon footprint through solar energy and electric vehicle infrastructure.
Speaking about the event, Mrs Buckét CEO and Founder, Rachael Flanagan, said: “It was great to partner with the GE Aerospace Wales team to discuss how Wales’ manufacturing sector can collaborate to be more sustainable.
“The event marks a significant step forward in the journey toward a cleaner, more responsible manufacturing future driven by innovation, collaboration and a shared vision for sustainability and it was great to be part of it.”
Following the panel discussion, attendees toured GE Aerospace’s facility at Nantgarw to witness firsthand how the company supports the global commercial aircraft fleet.
