By Boyd Ramsey
Editor’s Note: Geosynthetics consultant Boyd Ramsey is calling for the establishment of an Environmental and Safety Policy for Geosynthetics.
The creation of a circular human economy and sustainable infrastructure and businesses have been and are becoming increasingly important to the future of the planet. Highlighted by the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS), investor requirements for companies’ sustainable behavior, and consumer groups and organizations demanding improvement in this area, it is an area of ongoing change in companies’ and individuals’ activities and behavior. Geosynthetics are well positioned for this change: geosynthetics provide benefits that are not only economic, but sustainable, regardless of what measurements are considered (e.g., energy savings, CO2 and greenhouse gas reduction, total life-span analysis or other benchmarks. However, any industry, company (regardless of size) and individual also have a responsibility to conduct themselves in a sustainable fashion—this logically includes the creation of an Environmental and Sustainability Policy for Geosynthetics.
- Comply with all legal and regulatory environmental requirements and all codes and standards of practice that relate to environmental performance.
- Promote, through activities and actions, the development of circular-economy contributions for geosynthetics: recycling, reuse, waste reduction, improvements in durability and life span, and the promotion and training of others for the same goals.
- Consume all materials and services wisely, with consideration to health, safety and environmental impact. Where possible, utilize vendors and suppliers who are acting with environmental responsibility.
This article originally appeared on the Boyd Ramsey Consulting website, www.boydramseyconsulting.com.