What is ISO 14001?
ISO 14001 is an internationally recognised standard that provides a framework for organisations to manage their environmental responsibilities systematically and sustainably. It requires companies to implement an Environmental Management System (EMS) that identifies, monitors, and controls their environmental impact, from resource use to waste management. Achieving ISO 14001 means that we have not only met but exceeded stringent environmental criteria, ensuring that our operations contribute to a healthier planet.
The Challenge of Sustainability in Prototyping
For a prototyping bureau like ours, achieving ISO 14001 is no small feat. The nature of prototyping often involves processes and materials that can have a significant environmental footprint. Balancing the need for accuracy and quality with the imperative of sustainability can be particularly challenging in our industry. However, we believe that innovation and environmental responsibility should go hand in hand.
Our Journey to ISO 14001: A Commitment to Change
As part of our journey towards ISO 14001 accreditation, we have taken several steps to reduce our environmental impact. One of the most significant changes has been our switch from using PA2200 material to the more environmentally friendly PA2200 CarbonReduced Performance. This new material offers a dramatically reduced CO2e footprint while retaining all the technical properties of PA2200.
PA2200 CarbonReduced Performance is engineered to balance multiple factors crucial to prototyping, including production costs, mechanical properties, surface quality, and accuracy. Its ability to perform at a 100μm layer thickness makes it ideal for creating parts with varying geometries, dimensions, and requirements. This versatility means that we can continue to deliver the high-quality prototypes our customers expect, while also significantly reducing our environmental footprint.
A Future-Focused Approach
The transition to PA2200 CarbonReduced Performance is just one example of how we are integrating sustainability into our core operations. By optimising our processes and carefully selecting materials, we aim to lead the way in eco-friendly prototyping. Achieving ISO 14001 accreditation is a testament to our team’s hard work and our commitment to protecting the environment for future generations.
As we celebrate this achievement, we remain focused on continuous improvement. Sustainability is not a one-time goal but an ongoing journey. We will continue to explore new ways to minimise our environmental impact while delivering innovative, high-quality prototyping solutions.
At Prototype Projects, we are proud to set a new standard in sustainable prototyping, and we look forward to what we can achieve next.
