Full speed ahead on the circular economy

Reducing waste production, maximizing waste recovery through the application of advanced treatment technologies and the enhancement of industrial waste, implementing separate collections for the reuse of materials in production cycles, and optimizing waste logistics and handling to improve safety in shipyards: these are the goals we at Fincantieri aim to achieve through our partnership with the Hera Group. As one of Italy’s leading multi-utility companies operating in the fields of environment, energy, and water, Hera will bring its extensive experience in industrial waste management and the implementation of sustainable and circular economy solutions.

When we signed the Memorandum of Understanding in April 2024, we had a clear vision of the path we were charting. First and foremost, a new company will be established, involving Fincantieri, Hera Ambiente Servizi Industriali (HASI), and its subsidiary ACR di Reggiani Albertino S.p.A. The aim is to develop an integrated and efficient waste management system, starting with the Monfalcone shipyard, identified as the pilot site for the project’s implementation. This new company will also handle the operational management of the facility, disposal, and recovery of recyclable waste and residues.

The goal for the first year of collaboration is to increase the recoverable fractions (iron, wood, paper) by 15%. Subsequently, the model will be fully implemented through the creation of advanced treatment facilities and optimized waste management. This will be made possible through a series of structural initiatives in line with circular economy principles, such as the creation and management of a new sorting line, a new water treatment plant for subsequent reuse, and the renovation of the temporary storage facility. In the future, the model will be extended to other shipyards within the Group, with the aim of creating a new production ecosystem capable of managing its waste cycle in a virtuous and responsible manner.

"To tackle the environmental sustainability challenges in our shipyards, we have chosen to collaborate with the most qualified partners who can guarantee innovative, technological, and effective solutions," commented Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and General Manager of Fincantieri. "In this regard, the agreement with Hera, an Italian excellence and industry leader, represents another step forward in strengthening our commitment to adopting circular economy practices directly at our production sites. Combining our expertise with that of Hera will improve waste management in our shipyards, contributing to environmental protection, optimizing production processes, and enhancing safety. This partnership aligns with our industrial plan and, above all, demonstrates the Group’s 360-degree commitment to sustainability and the circular economy."