PLASTIVALOIRE AMERICA: Advancing Sustainability Through ISO 14001:2015
MMTC has been an exceptional partner, consistently accessible, responsive, and eager to support us. Their deep expertise and ability to view situations through an auditor’s perspective make them an invaluable resource.
-- Alexa Terry, Environmental Health & Safety Specialist, North America
Plastivaloire America (groupe-plastivaloire.com) is a leading automotive supplier specializing in plastic interior and exterior vehicle components. The company leverages innovative R&D, advanced engineering, and a network of North American and European manufacturing facilities to optimize product design, costs, and logistics. Its product portfolio includes cockpit systems, exterior parts, front-end modules, seat components, lighting, and engine compartment parts. They employ 150 at their New Baltimore, MI facility.
Challenge
Plastivaloire America had previously achieved ISO 14001 certification, but following a key staff transition, the system and certification lapsed. As the organization rebuilt its team, it recognized the importance of reestablishing certification in response to customer demand. Regaining ISO 14001 not only demonstrates a renewed commitment to environmental management but also creates opportunities to strengthen relationships and expand business with customers.
Solution
Committed to environmental stewardship and responding to customer demand, Plastivaloire America partnered with the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center (MMTC) for guidance. MMTC led a five-day ISO 14001:2015 Organizational Implementation consulting engagement, helping Plastivaloire America build and implement an Environmental Management System (EMS) that meets the ISO 14001:2015 standard. This multi-day project involved contributions from staff across the organization and provided expert support in process development, documentation, compliance, and employee ISO 14001: 2015 Internal Auditor training for a handful of staff to prepare for certification. MMTC also continued to support Plastivaloire America with audit preparation, ongoing compliance training, and continuous improvement consulting to ensure long-term success.
Results
- Passed the ISO 14001 audit and are now certified to ISO 14001
- Investment: $14,000
- Retained Sales: 50%
- Retained Jobs: 20%