Repair and reuse: Actemium makes safety equipment business more sustainable

The team responded by creating a repair and reuse program with its own workshop and trained technicians. The program highlights Actemium’s commitment to sustainability and appeals to customers who seek environmentally conscious solutions. The advantages of the repair and reuse program are clear:

• Repairing and refurbishing equipment instead of replacing it reduces demand for new products, limiting the amount of electronic waste that gets sent to landfills.
• The program lowers our carbon footprint and those of our customers.
• Costs are also lowered for customers who will not need to buy as much new equipment.
• Regular maintenance and repair ensure that this critical safety gear remains functional and up to standards.

How the repair program works

Qualified Actemium technicians meticulously inspect, repair, and test each piece of equipment to ensure its safe and proper functioning. The repaired and calibrated equipment can then be offered to clients as sustainable and cost-effective alternatives to new products. We will initially offer this solution to internal clients, such as other Actemium subsidiaries, to assess the feasibility and profitability of the repair and reuse approach. Geographically, we will target areas where the demand for gas and fire detectors is high, before gradually expanding to new markets.

In the medium term, we plan to extend our repair and refurbishment offering to external clients by partnering with other companies and organizations that have similar needs for safety equipment. We also aim to raise awareness about the benefits of repairing and reusing electronic equipment, which could open up new opportunities in the market.

Lowering our carbon footprint

Using an internal tool, we were able to estimate the amount of CO2 or CO2 equivalent emissions avoided through the repair and reuse of second-hand detectors. Manufacturing the equipment generates most of the environmental footprint. By reusing the detectors, we avoid CO2 emissions associated with the extraction of raw materials for the production of parts, as well as emissions resulting from transporting the equipment from France and Germany to Angola. Our analysis found that for this type of equipment, 99% of emissions are generated during manufacturing, while only 1% is distributed among the stages of distribution, use, and end of life. We estimate that one newly purchased detector would result in emissions of approximately 5kg of CO2 equivalent, with 4.97 kg for manufacturing and transport, and 0.02 kg for use and end of life. It is easy to see how the repair and re-use approach makes sense from this point of view.

Extraction of raw materials avoided; ecosystems preserved

Repairing and refurbishing gas and fire detectors cuts demand for new equipment, reducing consumption of new raw materials needed for manufacturing new equipment. This helps reduce pressure on natural resources and minimizes the ecological footprint associated with the extraction and processing of raw materials.

Implementing a repair and re-use program aligns with our commitment to sustainability

said Wilson PACIENCIA, in charge of warehouses management at Actemium Angola.

By extending the life of our equipment, we significantly reduce waste and minimize our environmental impact. This initiative not only helps us contribute to a greener planet but also positions us as leaders in sustainable practices.