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Since the beginning of its activities in 1970,
Cocam has been investing in alternatives and models
of utilization of resources for a rational preservation
of the environment.
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Cocam's activities generate three types of industrial residues:
liquid, solid and gas residues, and a specific treatment is
applicable for each of them. Results of these treatments are
rigidly controlled and maintained within official standards.
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Residuary waters are purified in decantation ponds, where the polluting
agents are removed. Cocam has recently consolidated its participation
in the local city council project for the decontamination
of the neighboring São Domingos river.
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Cocam also develops a Reforestation Program due to the biomass boiler timber
consumption. The company keeps a Permanent Preservation Area of 6.52
hectares where there is constant maintenance and preservation of
native plants.
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Cocam was one of the pioneers to use a gas washer in boilers to remove particles
and an ecologic furnace for roasters, equipment that eliminate gases generated
during the coffee roasting process.
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In addition to a strict compliance to legislation, Cocam has created a number
of voluntary projects of environmental preservation, such as:
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Waste Recycling
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The company promotes on site a waste selective collection program to support
the lifetime extension of sanitary landfills and environmental preservation
efforts. Cocam invests in its collaborators’ awareness of the need to
preserve natural resources, and, consequently, reduce waste volumes by
means of recycling. Recycled materials generated from the production process
and brought from home by collaborators are given away to the 'Associação Luxo
do Lixo' (evocative name standing for "Luxury of the Waste Association"), an
entity that generates income for deprived families.
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Household Vegetable Oil Collection
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Cocam promotes a program of vegetable oil collection avoiding environment contamination.
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The vegetable oil utilized at the company as well as at collaborators' homes is collected
and given away to an institution that gives shelter to and assists drug addicts.
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Recycled vegetable oil can be transformed into soap, toilet soap, detergent, etc.
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Reduction in Water Consumption
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Cocam has been recently investing in equipment in an effort to reduce level of water
consumption. Heavy investments and the establishment of goals have allowed the company
to achieve a 20% reduction in water consumption in the last years.
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