Page 32 - Minerva Foods | Annual Report 2017
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 These results show the capacity of predictability and the correct orien- tation of business. The location of industrial units in every major cat- tle-producing region in Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, Colombia and Ar- gentina lowers exposure to various risks, such as health outbreaks and climate change, which could negatively impact business. That is because the main raw material, cattle, depends on resources such as water, elec- trical power (which in the case of Brazil is dependent on rainfall) and animal feed (connected to agriculture). In addition, laws and regulations are being created as a result of climate changes, compliance with such could also have an impact on business. Among the risks associated with climate change and the environment are the physical changes to the en- vironment generated by fires and droughts which could raise the cost of the cattle farming process by diminishing supply and increasing the cost for animal supplements.
In this sense, the Company seeks to mitigate risks related to climate changes by monitoring the consumption of resources in its direct op- erations (industrial, logistics and transport) and by establishing internal actions, such as the creation of a record on the amount of Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions. A GHG inventory covering the years 2015 and 2016 was published in 2017.
In an ongoing effort to reduce environmental impact and create oppor- tunities, the Company develops studies on energy efficiency, optimiza- tion of water resources and improvements to cooling systems, always focusing on environmental improvements, optimization of the use of resources, business opportunities and cost reduction. 201-2
Upon reviewing the results of a survey completed in 2015 on the aspects and impacts of inherent activities, the Company dedicated 2017 to en- vironmental monitoring in order to meet applicable legal requirements, with the implementation of technologies and structural adaptations done on an as-needed basis at some units, making treatment of effluents and solid waste more efficient. 304-2
Large investments were also made in regard to occupational health and safety, aimed at preventing occupational accidents and dis- eases. Legal requirements are controlled and monitored through a computerized system: the Using and an Online Integrated Manage- ment System (or SOGI, its acronym in Portuguese), action plans
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