Reducing our carbon footprint

During the sunny months, we can already cover more than half of our energy needs through our own photovoltaic systems, thereby largely reducing our reliance on grid electricity. To ensure optimal energy supply, we also rely on eco-friendly power, making a contribution to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Green energy is exclusively generated from renewable sources such as sun, wind, water, and biomass.

More than a decade ago, we initiated the electrification of our fleet and made our initial investment in an electric vehicle. Currently, one-third of our Meinl fleet operates on electric power.
Our staff enjoys complimentary charging at more than 40 Meinl-owned charging stations, obtaining energy directly from our rooftops and accessing eco-friendly power from the grid.
Looking ahead, our commitment to electric vehicles remains steadfast and we aspire to convert our entire fleet to this sustainable mode of transportation.

As an initial step, we have taken measures to decrease the average temperature across the entire building. Additionally, we selectively omit heating in rooms that don't necessarily require it, contributing to a reduction in overall energy consumption.

Another focus is on smart heating. Through modern technologies and intelligent control systems, heat can be targeted to where it is needed. This allows for optimized use of heating energy, contributing to increased efficiency.

Furthermore, we have installed sun protection films on the windows, reflecting a significant portion of sunlight before it enters the interior, thereby minimizing the need for room heating on sunny days.

In our pursuit of an eco-friendly substitute for heating oil, in 2021, we chose a dual heating system when planning the new heating setup for our cymbals factory. The primary fuel for the facility is derived from wood chips, sourced entirely from local forests. Additionally, wood pellets serve as a source of heating.

Furthermore, we need to find an environmentally friendly and economically viable alternative for our fully functional oil heating system in our logistics center established in 2007.

Numerous of the current light fixtures in our buildings have been exchanged for energy-efficient LED bulbs. A major focus during the light bulb replacement was on environmentally friendly disposal and recycling of the exchanged lamps. Through this measure, we have avoided generating unnecessary waste and ensured that the components of the old lamps are properly recycled.
As a result of this step, our electricity consumption has seen a substantial decrease, leading to a reduction in our carbon footprint and fostering a more sustainable operational approach.
The transition to LED bulbs not only means more efficient lighting but also long-term cost savings.

At Meinl, we prioritize sustainability and view waste materials as valuable resources that, in reality, represent potential raw materials.

A particularly crucial aspect is the handling of metal residues generated during our production process in the cymbal factory. These metal residues are not simply discarded; instead, they find their way back to our raw material suppliers, where they undergo meticulous recycling to become the foundation for new products. This closed-loop system plays a key role in diminishing the utilization of primary resources.

We rely on innovative and sustainable heating technology to optimally heat our entire showroom. This task is undertaken by a modern air heat pump, which innovatively ensures heat supply. The functioning of the heat pump is based on the utilization of green electricity as a renewable energy source.

Powerful fans direct ambient air into the heat pump's evaporator, where a process efficiently extracts the heat from the air, transforming it into usable thermal energy.

A significant advantage is the ability to completely abstain from the use of fossil fuels such as heating oil and gas.

Our cymbals are coated with a remarkably thin layer of lacquer, measuring only 6-8 µm. This intentional decision carries positive implications on multiple levels. Through this extremely economical lacquer application, we not only significantly reduce our lacquer consumption but also contribute to environmental relief. The reduced lacquer usage means diminished resource consumption and a reduced environmental impact from chemical substances.

It is important to note that this frugal lacquering also enhances the sound quality of our cymbals. The thin lacquer layer promotes a more uninhibited resonance, leading to an enhanced sound. Furthermore, the high-quality lacquer imparts an aesthetic elegance to the cymbals, making them even more visually appealing.

We highly prioritize innovative strategies. One measure in this regard is the use of motion detectors in all our company buildings. These smart sensors guarantee automatic activation of lighting upon motion detection. Through this effective management, we not only promote energy conservation but also establish a comfortable environment for our staff.

Furthermore, we have taken additional steps to reduce unnecessary power usage.
A central light and machinery control panel allows us to manage individual lights and machines with a simple button press. This enables us to selectively turn on or off lighting units as needed, providing precise control over when and where illumination is required.

The importance of water as a fundamental foundation for all life is indisputable, it not only supplies essential fluid to living beings but also forms diverse habitats. Groundwater, in particular, plays a crucial role as a source of drinking water and as a habitat for numerous organisms.

In our commitment to responsibly manage this vital resource, we have implemented a highly specialized vacuum distillation system in our cymbal manufacturing facility. This system is customized to meet our specific requirements, allowing us to make substantial savings in drinking water.

The efficiency of this system is evident in the fact that we can save approximately 90,000 liters of drinking water annually. By embracing this technology, we decrease our water consumption without compromising the quality of our production.