The Samurai code and recycling

We talk about recycling, and we ask our product users to take co-responsibility for waste. But what about us? Well, we are all in the same boat when it comes to planet conservation. We will tell you how, in this little analogy about Samurais and MTN Colors.

Samurai (bushi) were a class of warriors that emerged in 10th century Japan and served in the military until the 19th century. Elite and highly trained soldiers, experts in the use of both the bow and arrow and sword. They were an essential component of Japanese armies in medieval times, and were governed by a strict code of conduct.

We are not in feudal Japan, and when we hire someone, we don't expect them to know how to handle weapons. But, of course, we look for people who share the same moral interests and capabilities that fit with us. 

Basically, the samurai teachings are a good code to follow, a collection of strict moral knowledge, to which they gave their lives. 

Let's be clear: We, obviously, are not asking for anything like that. What we really want to talk about is recycling within the company and relating it to Bushido.

The code is composed of 7 virtues that we as human beings can follow in relation to the planet and caring for it.

These are:

- Justice (Gi): We encourage advocating for fair, ethical environmental policies and practices and promoting equality in the distribution of environmental burdens.

- Courage (Yū): This implies fighting for significant changes in environmental policies in our private lives, business and society.

- Compassion (Jin): Be considerate and understanding, especially to those in the most vulnerable situations. Develop sensitivity to the plight of the environment and affected communities. Work to create solutions that improve both the health of the ecosystem and the well-being of others.

- Respect (Rei): Respect for others is fundamental. Treat nature with respect and consideration. Promote sustainable and environmentally friendly practices.

- Honesty (Makoto): This is an essential quality of the Bushido code. Be transparent about the environmental impacts of certain actions and seek ways to mitigate these impacts. Advocate the disclosure of accurate environmental information.

- Honor (Meiyo): Maintain a high level of integrity in all activities related to environmental conservation. Comply with environmental commitments and responsibilities.

- Loyalty (Chūgi): Be loyal to the cause of environmental conservation and to the communities that depend on natural resources. Support sustainable initiatives.

- Self-control (Jisei): Practice moderation and sustainable resource management. Avoid excessive consumerism and encourage lifestyles that minimize the ecological footprint.

"That's all well and good. -you'll say (thank you!) -but what does it specifically entail? What do you do at Montana Colors?"

Well, some of what we do at MTN is this:

Respect for nature and waste management

Implement waste management systems to minimize the amount of waste and encourage recycling.

- For example, by reducing the hazardousness of the formulations and the solvent residues generated by replacing xylene with other solvents.

- Separation and collection of organic matter, to produce less banal waste.

- Periodic training on waste management for workers.

- Recycling of solvents through authorized managers for subsequent reuse.

Energy Efficiency

Adopt technologies and practices that reduce energy consumption and promote the use of renewable energy sources.

For example:

- Replacement of a diesel boiler for a biomass one at the aerosol plant.

- Progressive replacement of lighting using LEDS, to reduce electricity consumption.

- Replacement of the aerosol plant's compressors with new, more energy-efficient models.

Responsability and duty

Use environmentally friendly materials and strive to reduce the use of non-renewable resources.

- Reduction and elimination of waste such as plastic cups. Substitution of water fountains with new fountains that do not use plastic bottles.

Balance and harmony

Participate in community initiatives and projects that benefit the local environment and promote environmental awareness among employees and customers. In protecting the environment, we seek to balance human development with nature conservation to ensure long-term harmony.

- Automation of lines in the aerosol factory, to reduce manual processes that previously generated a more repetitive work model in the human aspect and more errors in terms of resources.

Values such as integrity and loyalty

Being transparent about environmental practices, setting sustainability goals and being accountable for progress.

- Such as the information that is available to the public on our website or these articles that aim to update and inform about these processes.

Life cycle and resilience

Optimize supply chains and adopt practices that reduce carbon emissions associated with product transportation.

- Creation of a new, larger warehouse to reduce travel between locations.

- Larger waste collection dumpsters (in the new warehouse) to reduce the number of trips.

In short, there is always more that can be done, but every change, every step is important. We must always aspire to do more, in both human and business terms, and we have chosen the bushido code to carry out our mission.