Frances Watkins, 15 Jun
MEDICAL technology firm Stryker has celebrated the two-year success of
its Tiny Forest.
The planting in 2022 was supported by local schools, and as part of the
anniversary celebrations students were brought on a tour of the site to
see how this sustainable initiative has grown at the Raheen Industrial
Estate.
Inspired by a Japanese methodology, the Tiny Forest has growth rates up
to five-times greater than traditional woodlands. It enhances local
biodiversity and acts as a sanctuary for urban wildlife.
In promoting sustainability and biodiversity, the Limerick team, led by
Joseph Hearney, have also installed a bee apiary onsite.
Albert Cummins, interim site lead, Stryker Limerick, explained how
these actions are often inspired by their people.
“A culture of sustainability motivates action. Our local initiatives
are often the result of suggestions from our employees.
“Whether it's reducing water, planting Tiny Forests or establishing
pollinator habitats, we are always focused on what we can do better in
our communities. Stryker aims to be at the forefront of sustainability
initiatives, supported by an ambitious global strategy. We are proud of
what the teams in Limerick and Ireland have achieved and look forward
to seeing their future plans.”
Stryker’s robust global sustainability strategy supports their goal to
become carbon neutral by 2030.
Irish operations are on trend to reach this target, with its
manufacturing sites now using 100% renewable wind-generated energy,
reducing annual carbon emissions by 20,000 tonnes, equivalent to
removing 4,000 cars from the road.
Additionally, all sites use 100% LED lighting, retrofitted with
occupancy sensors.