NowyStyl_Raport CSR_2022-2023_EN-www

This is another challenge we have taken up. A hexavalent chromium plating process, in spite of using a highly improved technology, poses a risk to human health and the environment. This is due to the harmfulness of the main raw material, which is chromium (VI) trioxide, also commonly known as chromic anhydride. The substance has toxic, carcinogenic and mutagenic effects. Despite improvements in safety and precautionary measures, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has banned the use of this substance by including it in Annex XIV of the REACH Regula- tion in 2014. With the development of an alternative technology, trivalent chromium plating, despite the fact that the use of chromic anhydride was still available, Nowy Styl decided to change that technology to one that is safer and friendlier to employees and the natural environment. In 2021-2022, we conducted research to explore the advance- ment of that technology at various suppliers, and how it corre- sponds with requirements that have to be met by the products we manufacture. The work was completed by selecting the sulphate chrome plating technology, which ensures product colour most similar to products made so far. Other important parameters included penetration (ability to cover all nooks and crannies) and corrosion resistance. At the turn of 2024, after selecting and purchasing a suitable chrome plating technology, we modernized the galvanic line. Currently, our process is fully based on the Cr (III) chrome plating technology. CHANGE OF THE CHROME PLATING TECHNOLOGY This systemic and comprehensive approach to chemi- cals is helpful when carrying out analyses to design and launch new products in line with ecodesign, which we have implemented, based on ISO 14006:2020, and with regard to requirements set by leading environmental certifications. We continue to strive to reduce the amount of par-ticu- larly hazardous chemicals used in our processes, or to replace them with alternatives that have less impact on employees and the environment. Examples include steps taken to completely eliminate solvent-based varnishes from production processes carried out at the Office Furniture Factory and replace them with water-based varnishes, as well as reducing the amount of polyols and isocyanates used in the production of polyurethane foam by developing a special method of pouring moulds. We discuss that on pg. 134 149