By Liz White, UT contributing editorMiddleton, UK-UK polyurethane processor Autothane has gained an award for its environmental management system, in the category of companies with fewer than 50 employees, at the Wales Environment Awards, organised by ARENA Network. This is a major achievement for the Wrexham-based moulder of microcellular polyurethane elastomer parts that employs just 25 people, said a statement from the firm's parent group British Vita plc. In its environmental approach, which enabled it to gain the award, Autothane changed several aspects of its process and worked with key suppliers to reduce production waste, improved waste segregation and increased its recycling activities and reduce water and energy consumption. Autothane manufactures precision PU mouldings for noise/vibration/harshness (NVH) control applications in automotive suspension systems. The firm engineers its Autothane-brand microcellular PU to tight specifications for automotive designers and constructors for end-uses in Formula 1 racing cars, passenger cars and heavy goods vehicles.Pictured receiving the award from Chris Hale (centre right), head of business & environment for the Welsh Assembly, are (l-r) Autothane's site manager Norman Filmer, quality manager Jo Woodward and admin & quality assistant Julie Jones."
