Material use & efficiency (2023)
The resource-saving use of materials is of great importance to ODM. We use our influence to minimize resource consumption. Wherever possible, we use recycled materials and follow the principles of the circular economy. This not only enables us to reduce procurement and energy costs, but also to optimize waste handling.
Our products are characterized by a high degree of sustainability. As part of our eco-design, we have decided not to develop disposable products, as is common on the market. One example of this is our headsets, which follow a sustainable maintenance and repair concept.
Every five years, these are brought up to date with the latest development during the repair process. This means that every five years they are brought up to the level of a new device without incurring new purchase costs. We call this a "backward compatible facelift" and are the only manufacturer on the market to offer this. Our components are screwed instead of glued to ensure that components are interchangeable. This method not only saves costs, but also conserves valuable resources and ensures that PPE certification is regularly renewed. By considering the entire life cycle of our products, we ensure that they are durable, resource-saving, sustainable, environmentally friendly and easy to recycle. During development and procurement, we pay attention to the use of sustainable materials and avoid potential conflict minerals wherever possible, strictly observing due diligence obligations along the supply chain. Wherever possible, we replace materials with more sustainable alternatives and continuously reassess them. We use the latest 3D printing technology for prototype construction. Surplus material is reused and defective products are recycled. In this way, we conserve resources and use the material in a targeted and efficient manner. Systematized communication with our suppliers regarding our requirements will help to raise awareness and improve the quality of information in the future. We see risks when suppliers cannot provide information about their supply chains, CO₂ emissions or the raw materials used. We are proactively addressing the increasing demands on waste management through regulations and laws. We take back all products at the end of their life cycle and ensure that they are disposed of properly and in a sorted manner with appropriate disposal records. This ensures transparency and traceability in our waste management.