RAK Ceramics published its
Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) report for the year 2023, documenting the
company’s achievements in the realm of sustainability and social responsibility. This
comprehensive report presents the outcomes of the set objectives for last year and outlines the
aspirations and goals for 2024.
RAK Ceramics’ core divisions, which include Tiles, Sanitaryware, Tableware and Faucets,
focused on bolstering sustainability efforts through targeted goals and innovative initiatives in
2023. They executed 32 projects aimed at optimising resource usage and reducing environmental
impact. The recently opened Smart Factory helped boost productivity, reduced power and gas
consumption.
By investing in one of the largest tunnel kilns in the industry, SMART-controlled compressors,
VDF installations and other major initiatives, the sanitaryware division effectively reduced its
energy consumption in air compressors by nearly half. The faucet division enhanced chrome
production productivity, achieving a significant 48.78% reduction in energy intensity. Meanwhile,
the tableware division effectively decreased energy intensity of sales and production processes.
Additionally, the installation of Variable Frequency Drives (VFD) on 34 machines and equipment
helped reduce the overall electricity consumption.
In 2023, RAK Ceramics ensured improved circularity through a multifaceted approach, in which
100% of non-hazardous waste was either reintroduced in production or recycled by third parties.
The factories reused 16.7% of fired sanitaryware rejects, 92.5% of reclaimed glaze and 100% of
greenware sanitary ware rejects.
Furthermore, the effective partnership with DHL Global Forwarding and Etihad Rail (RailDirect)
underlined RAK Ceramics’ strong commitment to sustainable logistics solutions.
In the final quarter of 2023, RAK Ceramics showcased its commitment to sustainability at COP28
UAE as a prominent partner in the Sustainability Showcase: Ras Al Khaimah’s Journey and
played a pivotal role in discussions on achieving net-zero emissions. Collaborating with SAP, the
company highlighted the importance of technology in driving positive change. RAK Ceramics’
efforts were also recognised with the EcoLabel Certification Award by the Ras Al Khaimah
Environmental Protection and Development Authority, underscoring its leadership in
environmental sustainability.
In regard to social responsibility, RAK Ceramics increased its Emiratization rate and the
representation of women among administrative employees. The company also made noteworthy
progress by successfully onboarding 319 professionals and optimising the workforce to enhance
production capacities, which resulted in 762 employees transitioning to new opportunities.
Demonstrating a strong commitment to corporate responsibility, the company invested in various
CSR initiatives last year. Notably, in response to the devastating earthquake in Turkey and Syria,
RAK Ceramics partnered with the Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation to supply over 1,000
pallets of tiles and sanitaryware products for construction assistance, aiming to facilitate the
rebuilding process. Additionally, AED 100,000 was raised and donated to the Emirates Red
Crescent UAE and UNICEF to support their ongoing relief efforts in the affected areas.
Commenting on the success of ESG objectives in 2023, Abdallah Massaad, Group CEO of
RAK Ceramics, said, “In the ever-evolving landscape of sustainability, RAK Ceramics achieved
many important sustainability goals in 2023, including increased energy efficiency, conserving
natural resources, and implementing eco-friendly solutions across our entire value chain. We are
proud to announce ongoing investments and advancements in our manufacturing capabilities
across key regions, including the UAE. This strategic investment not only enhances our
production capacity but also reflects our unwavering dedication to delivering excellence in quality,
fostering innovation, and ensuring sustainability.
As we navigate the future, our dedication to sustainability remains unwavering. We are committed
to leading by example, continuously improving our practices, and putting humanity and nature at
the core of our business.”
For more information, visit www.corporate.rakceramics.com.
