Rothsay Division Darling Ingredients Inc.

Rothsay: A Leader in Sustainability in Achieving UN Goals

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Authors

Emily Schneiderman-Shevell

Emily Schneiderman-Shevell

Sam Mayer

Sam Mayer

School

University of Guelph

University of Guelph

Professor

Ruben Burga

Ruben Burga

Global Goals

6. Clean Water and Sanitation 7. Affordable and Clean Energy 12. Responsible Consumption and Production 13. Climate Action

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Summary

Rothsay, established in 1947, recycles about 99% of the materials they collect including animal by-products, grease trap and used cooking oil. These materials are rendered into finished goods such as biodiesel energy, makeup, pie crusts, capsules for pharmaceuticals, protein meals, pet foods which then get distributed across North America. The entire company’s existence is based around the principles of recycling and this contributes to a sustainable future.

Innovation

Since Rothsay’s establishment in 1947, their business model has been based on the concept of sustainability and the recycling of 99% of the materials they collect. Slowly, as CSR’s importance has evolved within society and technology has changed, Rothsay has been able to continually offer improved rendering operations while remaining committed to environmental sustainability.

In addition, Rothsay has distinguished itself from competitors by undertaking the innovative task of treating waste water and converting it to freshwater which is then released into conservation areas twice a year.

Rothsay also innovatively powers their fleet by producing and using biodiesel made in their own facilities. This innovation helps reduce their carbon footprint by reducing their production of greenhouse gases

Rothsay: A Leader in Sustainability in Achieving UN Goals

Inspiration

Rothsay was inspired to pursue sustainable goals from the moment it was establishment. It's very industry, rendering, is sustainable by nature

With increasing technology and changing culture meaning an increase in demand from consumers to be environmentally sustainable, Rothsay's mission has been able to flourish

Overall impact

Several of Rothsay’s endeavors and innovations lead to benefits for the environment, society and even to their own business. Firstly, Rothsay brings benefits to the environment by rendering/recycling materials which helps reduce the consumption of more resources which has significant ecological benefits. This company also produces biofuels from the materials they collect which they then use on their fleets which allows them to help reduce greenhouse gases and benefit the environment and society. Rothsay’s prioritization of sustainability is also exemplified by their support for environmental education programs in the community and their involvement with several charities.

Business benefit

Rothsay’s engagement in responsibility allows them to market themselves and give them the comparative advantage against companies that are also in the rendering/recycling industry. Since Rothsay’s business model and existence is based on sustainability, it not only is beneficial that they act responsibly but also necessary for them to remain as a viable company. Able to prove to their clients that by partnering with them, they can ensure that their waste is being treated responsibly.

Social and environmental benefit

Rothsay helps contribute to numerous environmental benefits and several of them align towards meeting the UN goals. Firstly, Rothsay helps reduce materials in landfills by recycling 99% of the materials that they collect which helps reduce waste that can go on to produce greenhouse gas emissions and odours. By eliminating these materials from landfills, Rothsay helps reuse these materials which has significant ecological benefits. Secondly, Rothsay’s treatment of wastewater helps toward the UN goal of Clean Water and Sanitation. Once the water is treated it is then released into conservation areas which helps promote the sustainability of ecosystems that are critical to the health of the planet. Thirdly, Rothsay’s production and consumption of their own biofuel, made using recycled materials, helps in the reduction of greenhouse gases. Since greenhouse gases are a global phenomenon shared by all, Rothsay’s contribution to the reduction of greenhouse gases can be argued to be a societal benefit shared by all.

Rothsay as well is heavily involved in the communities in which they are operating in. One of their main focuses is on the importance of educating the local communities on sustainability and encourage this by supporting environmental education programs and charitable organizations.

Interview

April Marois, Regional Account Manager

Business information

Rothsay Division Darling Ingredients Inc.

Rothsay Division Darling Ingredients Inc.

Hamilton, ON, CA
Business Website: http://www.rothsay.ca/home/
Year Founded: 1947
Number of Employees: 501 to 1000
Provides essential services for efficient and environmentally responsible management of used cooking oil, animal by-product and grease traps across Canada.