DSM ensures continued employment and vitamin C supply during Jiangshan facility shutdown
The shutdown is part of the company's series extensive series of upgrades planned throughout the site, with the aim of meeting its sustainability goals by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
At the same time, the upgrade will help DSM align its practices with China's Green China, Beautiful policy, also called the Blue Skies policy.
Despite this, the company has assured its customers that its supply of vitamin C will continue during the shutdown.
DSM APAC communications and external affairs director Christina Celestine told NutraIngredients-Asia: "DSM Jiangshan has a summer shutdown each year to allow for maintenance and upgrades. This year's shutdown is extended for a more extensive package of upgrades to be implemented.
"As this is a scheduled stop included in our guidance, we have prepared for this shutdown well in advance, and have ensured security of supply of vitamin C to cover our contracted commitments, even during the shutdown."
Improving environmental impact
While DSM could not offer specific details regarding the upgrade at the moment, Celestine said the firm would be improving its environmental, social and governmental (ESG) performance, in accordance with its global standards.
This would entail further lowering its emissions of sulphur oxides, nitrogen oxides, and volatile organic compounds.
"As part of our drive for sustainability, we are constantly lowering our (carbon) footprint, both in our production processes and for our customers through the products we make.
"Brighter Living Solutions differentiate DSM through their positive impact on society and the environment — they have specific environmental or social benefits compared to mainstream reference solutions.
"The benefits can be identified in one or more stages of the product life cycle: from raw materials through the manufacturing process and usage phase, to potential re-use and end-of-life disposal."
She added that this upgrade was part of a multi-year plan to sustainably improve DSM Jiangshan's safety, environmental and operational performance.
Enforcement and employment
This coincides with the Chinese government ramping up the enforcement of its environmental regulations to address air, soil and water pollution, which includes higher standards for vitamin manufacturers.
In terms of what will happen to the employees at the facility during the shutdown, Celestine said: "There will be intensive project activities in the field during the shutdown, and the employees will be heavily involved in supporting these project executions.
"In addition, they will also be exposed to plenty of training to be ready to operate the upgraded plant in the later part of H2 2018."
