Innovation

By developing biodegradable and non-hazardous products, A&B Laboratorios reduces the environmental footprint of traditional solvents and enhances workplace safety by lowering exposure risks to harmful chemicals. Their eco-solvents have achieved a 57% reduction in carbon footprint compared to conventional solvents, exemplifying their commitment to sustainability.

Through collaboration with research centres, A&B Laboratorios continues to refine its products while promoting innovation within the chemical industry. Their initiatives serve as a model for other companies, demonstrating that sustainable growth is achievable even in sectors traditionally associated with environmental challenges.

The company is considered innovative and a reference in the sector due to the projects that it develops, but behind those investigations it has a lot of people that is willing to fulfil these objectives. That’s why they have internal conciliation and equality plans, and many other things that are also key to success. So, A&B believes the basis behind everything in an organisation is focused on the people that work in it. If employees are comfortable inside the company, they are going to transmit it to the client.

Inspiration

The inspiration for innovation at A&B Laboratorios de Biotecnología is rooted in a strong concern for environmental impact and worker safety. Jon Kepa Izaguirre, the Director of Quality and Innovation, recognized significant issues in industrial degreasing, noting, “People were cleaning with solvents that evaporated, creating a negative impact on the environment.” This prompted a commitment to develop safer, eco-friendly alternatives. Emphasizing their objective, he stated, “We want our products to be different… safer to use and without negative environmental impacts.” Their systematic application of eco-design methodologies and collaboration fosters a sustainable and responsible chemical industry.

Overall impact

The overall impact of the innovation has been significant for the company, its clients, and the wider community. By offering eco-solvents and other products, the company has provided safer alternatives to traditional chemical solvents, yielding immediate benefits for clients in terms of reduced risks in their workplaces. Long-term, these innovations have established A&B Laboratorios as a competitive player globally, expanding into 20 countries and achieving a 57% reduction in carbon footprint. This demonstrates the effectiveness of their solutions in meeting market demands while promoting environmental sustainability, setting a benchmark for responsibility in the chemical industry.

Business benefit

This innovation has strengthened A&B’s position in the market, opening new international markets and making it a notable name in green chemistry. The safer and effective eco-friendly products differentiate the company from competitors, attract eco-conscious clients, and improve customer retention by providing clear, tangible benefits for worker safety and environmental impact. This differentiation has also helped the company to grow sustainably, expanding its reach and enhancing its reputation.

Social and environmental benefit

The societal benefits of A&B’s products are substantial, as they reduce health risks for workers and lower environmental pollution from industrial solvents. The local community benefits from safer waste disposal practices and minimized chemical hazards in the vicinity. Additionally, A&B’s products support healthier ecosystems by preventing toxic runoff, promoting a circular economy in chemical use, and inspiring other companies to adopt similar green technologies.

Interview

Jon Kepa Izaguirre, Director of Quality and Innovation