Carbon Footprint
Throughout its life cycle, from the extraction of raw materials to its final recycling, every light pole has an environmental impact. In manufacturing, there are several factors which have a negative impact on the environment:
- Greenhouse gas emissions
- Energy consumption
- Production of hazardous waste
- Impact on air and water (toxicity, acidification)
- Depletion of the ozone layer
Tehomet wooden poles from Valmont® Structures are manufactured in a carbon neutral factory, where the environmental loads are reduced due smart material choices, process optimization, LED lighting and efficient heating from air compressors. Due to the requirements set by the Kyoto Agreement (lower greenhouse gas emissions), we focus on lowering the carbon footprint of our wooden poles. We measure the volume of greenhouse gas emissions throughout the life cycle of a product and convert them into a CO2 equivalent. Generally, the less metallic components a light pole has, the lower its CO2 emissions are. The carbon footprint varies based on the product's characteristics (diameter, height, materials, etc.), and in some cases, the choice of an alternative glulam timber can reduce the carbon footprint of your project by up to 40%. For an independent carbon footprint assessment, Valmont has worked with the engineering consultant firm Rejlers.
Learn more about our wooden poles from the Decorative Wooden Poles Book, by exploring our Photo Gallery and Resource Center, or by contacting your Valmont Structures representative.
