Leading by example: how to deal with climate change and ways to drive circular economy- By Peter Vanvuchelen, Director Sales & Business Development, Hencon

On a daily basis we are facing the dilemma typical for our kind of business: how can we increase our productivity, stay competitive and at the same time respect our planet and environment. How can we make our business more competitive and at the same time becoming sustainable and environmental friendly? How can we make this work in an aluminium smelter?

It was a few years ago that my daughter – at that time only 14 years old – told me extensively that my personal carbon footprint was not something to be proud of. Of course I defended my behaviour, my professional activities and my travels all over the world as a way to contribute in a humble way to a world which was comforting our cherished way of life. In the end, who wants to pay 5.000 € for a battery in a mobile phone? We all want cars at an affordable price and we all want nice design stuff in our houses. I felt that I was delivering a battle with my teenager daughter which could only elicit some sarcastic reactions from her side.

No doubt, youngsters of today are reflecting very well the responsibility that we have towards future generations. To safeguard our planet is not just a romantic ideal; the climate changes show us more than ever that it has become a necessity and our responsibility to have a critical look on our mindset.

In the middle of all these changes, listening to our customers (and my daughter..), and with the mission to build machines that are ready for the future, Hencon has been very active in developing technologies which comply already to standards that will be settled within the near future. I already talked you about our vacuum cleaners built for eliminating fine dust in aluminium plants and also our smart AGV’s have been elaborated in several articles. 

May be a little less remarkable, but largely developed throughout the last couple of years, is the electrification of our entire product range. Looking for ways to eliminating the problem of emissions and making our products more sustainable, we believe that electrification can be a good starting point for a ‘green fleet’. Nearly all of our vehicles are already available with an electric drivetrain. Besides the obvious economic benefits and the substantially longer product life time, it is a clear ecological statement.

In the same philosophy, and taken in consideration the restrictions – in autonomy - of battery-charged vehicles, Hencon has started a project behind the scenes to equip our products with hydrogen cells. We believe that this can make a serious difference in terms of emission (exhaust is pure water) but also in terms of extending the range of our battery equipped vehicles. Being aware of the danger of water in a potline, it is clear that Hencon will not accept any risk. Please mind you that combustion engines push out probably more water (under the form of condensation) than a well-sealed hydrogen engine would ever do.

While talking about sustainability and circular economy, it might be relevant to mention that Hencon is actively supporting a refurbishment program. Hencon has a large experience in refurbishing vehicles. Born during the COVID-19 period, this program was a small step to relieve our customers from old machines that are not being used, while we can support at the same time other customers that need an affordable ‘as new’ machine. This brought us to the idea to set up a program in which we act as a trader / broker for second hand machines, completely updated to modern standards and flavoured to specific requirements, while offering the same warranties and quality as on a brand new vehicle. Besides the obvious ecological benefits, it also offers opportunities if delivery time is an issue (ready in maximum 3 months) or the capital expenditure of a new machine is challenging.

Our world is changing, in every possible aspect, and Hencon wants to support actively their customers in this transition. Staying on top of all developments is the concern of all of our customers and we want to be your partner in that. Looking for better, more modern ways to keep and grow your business in a responsible way (both economically and sustainably) is our driver.