Grifols hosts North Carolina’s first recycling summit as public, private sectors look to enhance environmental efforts

Raleigh, N.C., Nov. 22, 2019 – Grifols (MCE:GRF, MCE:GRF.P NASDAQ:GRFS), a leading global producer of plasma-derived medicines, yesterday hosted North Carolina’s first recycling summit. Officials from the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ), manufacturers and recyclers met at Grifols’ Clayton site to strengthen their commitment to recycling and reuse. 

More than 30 executives who have environmental responsibilities for major corporations with operations in North Carolina, in addition to not-for-profit organizations, attended the summit.
John Nicholson, Chief Deputy Secretary of the NCDEQ, told participants that the public and private sectors have an opportunity to work together on sustainability initiatives that are mutually beneficial in protecting North Carolina’s environment and stimulating economic growth.

“North Carolina’s robust recycling economy is home to more than 670 recycling businesses, which create more than 16,000 jobs in the state,” Nicholson said. “The future of the recycling markets in North Carolina rely on commitments from local manufacturers, business and organizations to develop and grow their recycling initiatives, infrastructure and materials management systems.”

“Grifols is firmly committed to sustainable policies and practices that enhance and protect the environment,” said Doug Burns, President of Grifols Therapeutics. “We’re proud to work with the NCDEQ and other businesses and organizations to further our recycling efforts and continue our responsible stewardship of the environment.”

Grifols has already taken important steps at its Clayton facility to reduce its environmental footprint. Earlier this year, Grifols received the Zero Waste to Landfill Gold Certification from UL. Gold validation indicates that a company diverts 95-99 percent of waste from landfills. As a matter of routine practice, Grifols diverts 99 percent of the waste generated at its Clayton site from local landfills, about 31 million pounds annually. Metal, cardboard, glass and other solid waste is being converted into new uses to help protect the environment.

The Clayton site, which is ISO 14001 certified, also has the only two buildings in Johnston County with Leadership in Energy and Environmental (LEED) recognition for sustainable design.