Tag Archives: existing

Volkswagen

Volkswagen Group Releases Third Responsible Raw Materials Report

The latest Responsible Raw Materials Report from Volkswagen Group focuses on making adjustments to management systems and processes in compliance with the Supply Chain Due Diligence Act, which became effective on January 1, 2023. It also introduces the Responsible Supply Chain System (ReSC) and places emphasis on the newly implemented Human Rights Focus System (HRFS). The HRFS is designed to identify high-risk areas related to human rights violations and environmental issues, allowing for swift and appropriate action. Additionally, Dr. Kerstin Waltenberg has been appointed as the Human Rights Officer to monitor compliance with human rights due diligence.

“The Responsible Raw Materials Report not only showcases our progress in terms of transparency and risk management in the raw material supply chains, but also highlights the challenges we face. We go above and beyond our legal obligations,” says Dirk Große-Loheide, Member of the Brand Board of Management of Volkswagen responsible for Procurement and member of the Extended Executive Committee. “We take the procurement of raw materials sustainably very seriously and continuously collaborate with indirect suppliers in upstream supply chains, which pose the greatest challenge. Our Raw Material Management System plays a crucial role in this, implementing specific measures to identify and mitigate risks in these supply chains.” Dirk Große-Loheide adds, “With the Responsible Raw Materials Report, the Volkswagen Group, together with its brands Audi, Porsche, Scania, and MAN, documents our efforts and demonstrates that sustainable procurement is achievable. This report may also serve as an inspiration to others.”

In 2022, a major focus was on maintaining close cooperation with battery suppliers and their suppliers, from the mining stage to the production of battery cells. The aim was to increase transparency in complex supply chains and conduct audits to ensure responsible sourcing of raw materials. With the establishment of the new battery company PowerCo SE and the first battery cell factory at the Salzgitter site, Volkswagen engaged in deeper dialogue with relevant stakeholders to address human rights and environmental risks, and advocate for the certification of specific mines.

As a significant step in this direction, Volkswagen joined the “Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA)” in March 2022. The company has committed to gradually implementing the IRMA standards in its battery supply chains. IRMA is a coalition of NGOs, unions, affected local communities, investors, mine operators, and raw material customers, all working towards improving conditions in industrial mining.

Furthermore, Volkswagen’s involvement in sustainable supply chains has been expanded through its membership in the Leather Working Group (LWG), an initiative for the responsible procurement of leather, and the election of MAN Bus & Truck to the advisory council of The Copper Mark.

Since 2021, Volkswagen Group has been the first automotive company to publicly and voluntarily report on its Group-wide efforts to mitigate human rights and environmental risks in high-risk supply chains. The report follows the “Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Business Conduct” from the OECD, which outlines five steps for responsible due diligence, and complies with the requirements of the “OECD Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Supply Chains of Minerals from Conflict-Affected and High-Risk Areas.”

The report provides detailed information on Volkswagen’s methodology and activities regarding the Raw Material Management System for responsible sourcing of raw materials. It covers 16 high-risk raw materials, including lithium and cobalt used in batteries.

Since 2019, all relevant direct business partners of the Volkswagen Group are subject to mandatory sustainability ranking, which assesses environmental and social standards in addition to criteria such as cost and quality. Since 2020, the group has required full disclosure of the supply chain down to the mining stage for all new contracts related to battery raw materials.

Motorsport

Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster Pickup Teased Before July 13 Debut

Ineos has released a teaser for their upcoming Grenadier Quartermaster pickup, which will be revealed on July 13 at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. The truck will also participate in the hill climb event at the festival.

The teaser image showcases the back of the truck, featuring circular taillights similar to those seen on the Grenadier SUV. The tailgate proudly displays the “Grenadier” wordmark.


Technology

Easy Tips on How to Soundproof Any Room for a Quiet Space

When it comes to soundproofing a room, it’s important to first assess the existing makeup of the space. You may be experiencing sound leaks through windows, doors, or walls, either from outside noise or noise escaping from within. Take some time to quietly walk around the room and listen carefully to identify areas where sound is entering or leaving. If you’re dealing with particularly loud issues, you can even use an Apple Watch as a makeshift decibel detection tool, as it can help you measure the noise levels. Older windows might simply need some new caulk, and your door may have small gaps where it meets the frame that need to be addressed.

To gain valuable insights for your soundproofing project, listen for external noises or play music inside the room and explore the boundaries from outside. This will help you determine the best strategies for your specific needs. For example, if you want to reduce the sound of traffic coming from outside, focusing on the windows and adding insulation to the ceiling might be the most effective solution. On the other hand, setting up a home studio will require additional steps to achieve proper soundproofing.