International Flavors & Fragrances Inc., a developer of sensory experiences, has launched the flavor and fragrance industry’s first-ever on-site wind turbine at its Tilburg, Netherlands manufacturing facility.
This beautiful green valley, from the IFF home page, is almost as beautiful as a working wind turbine.
“Our new on-site wind turbine at our Tilburg facility is a big step for us in our exciting journey to lead positive transformational changes as we realize our Vision 2020 business strategy,” said Andreas Fibig, Chairman and CEO of IFF. “I am proud of the efforts our global teams are making on sustainability initiatives such as this wind turbine because not only does being environmentally responsive make good business sense, it is also my belief that as industry leaders, we have an unyielding commitment to the Earth.”
The turbine, rated for 2.4 MW, will produce about 6.5 million kWh of renewable electricity per year. It is estimated to provide up to 30% of the site’s electricity needs, and when combined with purchased green electricity the facility will be powered by 100% renewable electricity.
“We are thrilled to launch our first wind turbine,” said Kip Cleverley, Director, Global Sustainability for IFF. “Our team in Tilburg has been instrumental in driving this project forward and their efforts show how local implementation is essential to our global sustainability performance. This project truly embodies a main aspect of our sustainability strategy, Positive Principles, in which we strive to embed the principles of eliminating the concept of waste and using clean renewable energy into our company and culture.”
In 2015, IFF formally reaffirmed its commitment to renewable energy with its support of RE100, a collaborative, global initiative of influential businesses committed to 100% renewable electricity. And with the launch of its 2015 sustainability report last week, IFF also celebrated year-over-year company-wide reductions in energy use, water use and greenhouse gas emission intensities. We are also pleased to announce that IFF was just listed on the 2016 Newsweek Green Rankings, one of the world’s foremost corporate environmental rankings.
The philosophical keystone of IFF’s sustainability strategy is the concept of the circular economy. A circular economy, in contrast to a linear “take-make-dispose” economy, is one that is restorative and regenerative by design. This concept is a driver of sustainable innovation of products, business models, companies and economies.
“Innovation comes not just from what you make, but how you make it,” said Nicolas Mirzayantz, Group President, Fragrances, and Executive Sustainability Sponsor. “Following our launch of the largest solar array in the industry, this turbine is another demonstration of how we always strive for what is best for our company and the planet. The turbine will serve as a pillar of inspiration and pride for IFF employees in Tilburg – and around the world.”
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