Converting waste into usable products
Many of the materials supplied by VAR are both literally and figuratively ‘exhausted’. However, our aim is wherever possible to make them suitable for reuse. For example, we sort high-calorific waste substances, produce secondary fuels, separate reusable materials from commercial waste and construction and demolition waste, make rubble-like material suitable for applications in road building and concrete production, clean contaminated soil flows to produce secondary raw materials, and produce high-quality compost from garden, fruit and vegetable waste and other organic residual flows. By reducing energy consumption as far as possible, and generating as much energy as possible from waste flows, we aim to ensure that on balance, recycling generates ever higher results (i.e.: energy).

Taking account of the environment
VAR strictly complies with all rules and regulations in respect of the environment. Partly with that in mind, we strive to maintain good relations with local residents, local authorities, customers and other stakeholders. Above all local residents should suffer no nuisance from our activities. Against that background, we pay considerable attention to preventing odour and noise nuisance. We carry out daily inspections and are strict in supervising the quality of our products. We also view structural consultation as a key instrument in open and constructive communication. In our Social annual report, we report on the environmental effects of our activities, the environmental objectives and the measures taken.

Constant innovation in thoughts and actions
VAR makes use of the very latest technologies and ideas in achieving optimum reuse of waste. Our knowledge and expertise is also available to others. Nonetheless, for us, innovative thinking is not restricted merely to  technology. Environmental protection in everything we do continues to receive our fullest attention, subject to economic viability. To guarantee our goal of continuous improvement, internal and external audits are carried out each year in the framework of the ISO 14001 environmental protection system, the ISO 9001 quality system and the energy supply system. The management supports all efforts in these areas with an annual management review, in which the environmental targets set are evaluated.

Being a good employer
The management and all employees of VAR are jointly responsible for environmental protection, safe working practices and quality assurance at the workplace. Everyone employed by VAR must be aware of his or her own tasks and responsibilities in these areas. These tasks and responsibilities are specifically laid down in the job descriptions. The management ensures that everyone has access to the resources necessary for complying with these requirements.