Global Courant
In today’s world, environmental sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration as every industry strives to reduce its environmental footprint. Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) services are no exception. In recent years there has been increasing concern about the impact of industrial activities on the environment. Steel production in particular is an essential part of modern construction, but it is also a major source of greenhouse gas emissions. As a result, steel construction companies have started taking steps to become more environmentally friendly in their operations while providing quality products and services to customers.
Dorman Long Engineering Limited (Dorman Long), a leading oilfield equipment, structural steel, marine construction and fabrication company, has continuously demonstrated its commitment to providing environmentally sound engineering-based services and products to customers in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa. Dorman Long is committed to reducing carbon emissions at the core of its operations and has implemented environmentally friendly measures across all of its operations. From investing in renewable energy to prioritizing the use of locally sourced materials, Dorman Long has taken a proactive approach to reducing environmental impact by taking measures to conserve resources, minimize pollution, reduce waste and promote circularity. promote.
Here are ways Dorman Long is leading the way toward environmentally friendly operations:
Sustainability in production
Dorman Long is committed to reducing its environmental footprint through a multifaceted approach that includes using environmentally friendly materials, upgrading equipment, improving processes and fostering partnerships. The company prioritises the use of environmentally friendly and sustainable materials throughout the production process and product designs. For example, they use metal materials as a replacement for plastic where possible and they opt for recycled metals and local steel. According to the Steel Recycling Institute, recycling one ton of steel saves 2,500 pounds of iron ore, 1,400 pounds of coal and 120 pounds of limestone. Through its material substitution process, Dorman Long reduces the demand for new materials and minimizes the environmental impact associated with their extraction and processing.
The company also invests in state-of-the-art machinery and equipment, including the latest technologies that minimize energy consumption without compromising on quality. They converted old cranes from an asynchronous electric motor to a synchronous motor that runs through Variable Frequency Drive (VFD). Retrofitting equipment with energy-efficient technology significantly reduces energy consumption, which translates into lower greenhouse gas emissions and a reduced carbon footprint. This also helps conserve natural resources and reduce the environmental impact of the company’s operations. Dorman Long engineers and fabricators undergo regular training to improve their skills in sustainable manufacturing practices. This includes techniques such as lean manufacturing, which focuses on eliminating unnecessary steps, reducing material waste and improving overall efficiency.
In addition, the company actively collaborates with industrial partners and organizations to keep abreast of the latest developments in environmentally friendly materials and sustainable production processes. Suppliers and subcontractors undergo HSE competency assessments before registering and onboarding to ensure their practices are in line with Dorman Long’s sustainability goals. Through collaboration, the company contributes to developing innovative solutions and driving meaningful change. The aim is to inspire others to prioritize sustainability and work towards a carbon neutral future.
Investment in clean energy
Following a comprehensive review of its energy consumption patterns, in an effort to optimize energy efficiency across its operations, Dorman Long has implemented energy conservation initiatives to reduce overall energy demand. The company invested in renewable energy facilities to generate clean energy, reduce dependence on diesel and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. They have also continuously explored innovative technologies and processes to further improve their environmental performance. This includes researching and applying advanced materials and manufacturing techniques that require less energy and emit fewer pollutants, such as exploring low-carbon manufacturing processes.
Dorman Long has also set clear sustainability goals and targets to ensure its commitment to renewable energy remains strong. The team regularly monitors and reports progress towards these goals, ensuring transparency and accountability. Through these efforts, they demonstrate their commitment to reducing their impact on the environment, supporting the energy transition and driving a sustainable future.
Correct waste management
Dorman Long demonstrates its commitment to minimizing waste generation through a holistic approach that encompasses both corporate and collaborative efforts with stakeholders. Dorman Long recognized the importance of waste management in promoting a sustainable and circular economy and implemented internal initiatives to minimize waste generation by optimizing production processes and applying principles of lean manufacturing. It uses advanced technologies and techniques to reduce material waste, including precise cutting and forming methods and implementing design improvements that reduce the overall material requirements for each project.
Dorman Long has also established a recycling and reuse culture within its facility. This includes the separation and proper disposal of various types of waste, such as scrap metal, plastic, paper and other recyclable materials. Their team works closely with specialist government-approved companies to ensure that these materials are properly removed, processed or reintroduced into the production cycle as needed.
In addition, the company encourages employee involvement in identifying opportunities to reduce waste production. Regular audits and reviews identify areas where improvements can be made, whether by streamlining processes, optimizing equipment usage or implementing new technologies. They also actively work with suppliers and customers to promote sustainable practices by encouraging the adoption of environmentally friendly packaging and delivery methods.
Create internal environmental awareness
Dorman Long believes that fostering a galvanized internal workforce is critical to driving responsible environmental practices within the company and beyond. That is why it has set up a periodic environmental training program for all employees. Through this program, it educates its staff on the importance of environmental conservation, the potential impact of industrial activities and best practices for reducing their environmental footprint. Their training covers a variety of topics including energy efficiency, waste management, water conservation and air pollution control.
Dorman Long has also implemented a health, safety and environmental recognition system to reward employees, teams and departments that demonstrate exceptional commitment to environmental responsibility. Dorman Long has an open door policy where employees can share their ideas, concerns or observations related to sustainability. This helps the company identify areas for improvement, strengthen employee engagement and foster a sense of responsibility for environmental initiatives. By empowering its employees to become environmentalists, they strive to make a lasting positive impact on the environment and their local communities.
Green zones and support for green entrepreneurship
Dorman Long maintains green areas within its buildings that provide various environmental benefits such as air purification, carbon sequestration and soil conservation. This initiative contributes to environmental conservation efforts and helps reduce the company’s carbon footprint. Dorman Long also supports green entrepreneurs by providing free access to spaces in the facility. Two green entrepreneurs have been awarded the perimeter fence for Dorman Long’s Agege facility to support their flower planting and artistic activities. Exhibiting horticultural plants and artwork enhances the landscape and helps the entrepreneurs develop and grow their businesses. By supporting those who develop environmentally friendly solutions, Dorman Long contributes to the growth of a green economy, reduces the impact of climate change and creates a more sustainable future.