New Holland Construction Sends Zero Waste to Landfill at Its Contagem Plant in Brazil

The New Holland Construction plant in Contagem, in Minas Gerais state, Brazil, reached its ambitious target of Zero Landfill by treating 100% of its waste. The project, started in 2016, went through a feasibility study of various alternatives to ensure the environmentally correct choice was made: either through recycling or composting, and was then implemented in phases. The initiative was based on CNH Industrial’s World Class Manufacturing (WCM) philosophy, which seeks zero losses together with the methodology of the 5R Pyramid - refusing of waste (reverse logistics), reduction, reuse, recycling and recovery.

Environmental analyst from New Holland Construction, Milena Vieira, explains that environmental legislation determines the disposal of industrial waste to licensed landfills. "Landfill does have some controlled treatment, but its useful life is limited. We understand that all our material can be processed and we have always sent the minimum quantity of waste to those sites. Over time, we gradually reduced the volume until we reached what we call Zero Landfill, the complete elimination of waste sent to landfill".

Solid waste arising from industrial activities includes wood, plastic, cardboard, organic material and oil. "Wood is sent for biomass production, the solvent used in painting is recycled and reused internally, organic waste is composted, effluent goes through an Effluent Treatment Station for reuse in cleaning the factory floor and testing machines, amongst other uses. We look for environmentally correct solutions for each and every type of waste", explains Vieira.

In order to achieve this result, the separation, packaging and transportation of the materials are carried out internally. A specialized team handles waste management, focusing on maximizing recycling and eliminating landfill. "The implementation of this project is a beneficial investment for all, for the sustainability of our business, for the environment and for future generations", concludes Vieira.

Towards a more sustainable capital goods company

In 2018, CNH Industrial's waste recycling index in South America was 98%, with the world average already exceeding 91%. With actions such as this, CNH Industrial demonstrates its commitment to becoming ever more sustainable.