Dipped Products sets standard for sustainable growth: launches ESG roadmap ‘DPL Pulse’

DPL Managing Director Pushpika Janadheera (left) and DPL Deputy Chairman Rajitha Kariyawasan (right) with Hayleys Group Chairman and Chief Executive Mohan Pandithage (centre) at the launch 

Leading export manufacturer of hand protection solutions and member of the Hayleys Group, Dipped Products PLC (DPL), announced the launch of its new ESG roadmap ‘DPL Pulse’. 

‘DPL Pulse’ builds on the environmental and social consciousness already rooted within the organisation and aligns with the Hayleys Group’s long-term sustainability aspirations as outlined in the Hayleys Lifecode. 

Amidst the disconcerting forecast made by UN climate scientists that July 2023 would be the hottest month on record, UN Secretary-General António Guterres declared that “the era of global warming has ended” and “the era of global boiling has arrived.” Although climate change is evident, to stop the worst, “we must turn a year of burning heat into a year of burning ambition,” he stated in a recent UN report.

At the company’s launch to its employees, DPL Managing Director Pushpika Janadheera said: “As an industry pioneer in sustainability, DPL Pulse formalises our efforts and initiatives with purpose and direction. This commitment comes at a critical time, with escalating impacts of global climate change and widening socio-economic disparities. As an organisation that relies primarily on agricultural materials, we have always been acutely aware of the impact of climate change on our business and communities and we are firmly committed to effecting positive change and building resilience.

“Economic growth should never undermine the balance between social and environmental progress; simply, there is no compromise. This ethos is deeply ingrained within the core of our management philosophy at Hayleys and DPL. We recognise the increasing call for sustainable sourcing across the world, a demand that compels us to protect not only the hands of millions but also the world they touch. Our gloves stand as a symbol of protection, encompassing both physical safety and concern for the environment and society,” Janadheera added.

DPL Pulse is built on the four key pillars of Planet, People, Products and Partnerships which ensure a holistic focus across the value chain. Aligned to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Roadmap sets out clearly defined targets under each pillar, including a 20% reduction in carbon footprint (Scope 1 and 2).

As a result of DPL's proactive approach in adopting renewable energy sources, 93% of its energy needs are currently met by biomass and other renewable sources. DPL has set forth plans to invest Rs. 1.6 billion in solar energy spanning all six manufacturing locations, with five based in Sri Lanka and one in Thailand. Additionally, DPL is committed to achieving a zero landfill goal as part of its ongoing efforts.

The recently established sports glove complex demonstrates the company's environmental dedication. Striving for Platinum LEED certification, the facility is powered by 325 kWp solar rooftop panels and a Rain Water harvesting system with a capacity to serve 50% of its domestic usage in the rainy season.

DPL is targeting 30% sustainable water sourcing and 55% reuse of treated wastewater through its 2030 Roadmap. A water recycling project at its Hanwella site, is a shining example of sustainable water practices in action. Used discharged water undergoes treatment at an effluent treatment plant, and is subsequently reused, saving nearly 40% of the site's water consumption.

Strengthening its competitive advantage in niche export markets, DPL aims to ensure that a minimum of 10% of its product portfolio is eco-rated and will increase the use of recycled raw materials in its manufacturing process by at least 30%. DPL also plans to increase the environmental screening of suppliers by 40%, in addition to doubling the beneficiaries of its CSR programs.