The award, which recognizes institutions for development of sustainable projects, was presented by the Minister of Sustainable Development, Environment and Parks, Pierre Arcand, for the company’s Candian Distribution Center, and becomes L’Oreal’s second establishment in Canada certified at level 3, since its manufacturing plant in Saint-Laurent also received certification in 2009.
Pierre Massicotte, L’Oréal Canada vice-president of operations expressed his pride at the recognition and stated it demonstrates the firm’s long term commitment to its sustainable development program.
"With the continued involvement of all employees and the unconditional support of management, the plant has reached an excellent standard of residual waste management. The materials not recovered on site are sent to a subcontractor responsible for maximizing their recovery," said Massicotte.
97 million units shipped annually nationwide
The L’Oréal Canada Distribution Center has over 10,000 products (20 million units) stored on site, and more than 97 million units shipped annually throughout the country, the company claims.
To minimize the environmental impact of its operations, the Montreal-based subsidiary has implemented many projects since 2006 including the reuse and recovery of product packaging as well as improvement in energy efficiency.
Also during the presentation ceremony, the L'Oréal Canada plant was awarded a Special Mention for its project "Réduction à la source".
The group claims that since 2005, the rate of residual waste recovery increased from 84 percent to 92 percent.
"These initiatives are part of the L’Oréal Canada overall environmental plan. They are designed to greatly reduce its carbon footprint through an eco-friendly approach that also emphasizes the health and safety of its employees," explained Massicotte.
The ICI On Recycle program promotes responsible management of waste and seeks to recognize institutions which achieves the objectives of development specified in its criteria.