How Menara Holding Saved $900K a Year Through Sustainable Management
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1. Company at a Glance
This case study demonstrates how Menara Holding has effectively addressed the dual challenge of water scarcity and business sustainability in Morocco. By implementing innovative water recycling technologies, optimizing resource use, and collaborating with stakeholders, the company has aligned its operations with Sustainable Development Goals 6 and 12. This initiative not only ensures the company’s long-term viability but also contributes to Morocco’s environmental and socio-economic development.
Construction & Materials
Industry
1976
Founded
~1,500
Number of Employees
Marrakech, Morocco
Headquarters
2. The Challenge
Water scarcity in Morocco poses a significant challenge not only to the environment and communities, but also to businesses that rely heavily on water for their operations. The latest estimates suggest that by 2030, the difference between available freshwater and its demand will be 40% in this area of the Sahara. This is not only a problem for the company, but also a challenge for the population, the local government and different industries that depend on it.
For Menara Holding, a leader in the construction and materials sector, access to sufficient and sustainable water resources is essential for its production processes and long-term business viability. The company aimed to ensure sustainable water management while reducing their environmental impact and contributing to the water preservation agenda.
3. The Action
Innovative Solutions for Sustainable Water Management
Menara Holding has implemented a comprehensive strategy to address water scarcity. Through the innovative solutions and collaborative efforts below, the company has made significant progress in optimizing water use:
Water Recycling and Treatment
Invested in wastewater treatment plants across all seven sites of its subsidiaries, recycling 80% of wastewater annually to serve other purposes in the economy such as agriculture.
Innovation in Technology
Introduced technologies for extracting water from sludge and recovering rainwater and industrial water for reuse in humidification and concrete production.
Resource Optimization
Recovered ready-mixed concrete residues and reintegrated the recycled water into the production process, reducing water consumption and climate risks caused by water scarcity.
Stakeholder Collaboration
Engaged with partners to enhance water management and environmental performance, integrating a multi-stakeholder approach into their sustainability strategy. To this end, the role of senior management was crucial in defending and promoting the company's values among internal and external collaborators.
4. Overcoming Barriers
Internal Cultural Shift
Encouraging a sustainability-focused mindset across the organization, including subsidiaries, emphasizing the importance of water stewardship at all levels.
Technological Gaps
Investing in advanced technologies for water treatment and recycling to overcome challenges.
5. Impact & Results
Water Conservation
The company actually recycles 1.3 million m3 of wastewater annually. This translates to a few days of water consumption for a city the size of Marrakesh. They have also achieved daily savings of 4,000 liters of water and 50% use of recycled water in the mortar manufacturing process.
Economic and Environmental Benefits
Reduced dependence on well freshwater resources and minimized waste. Reduced water use also allows other industries, such as agriculture, to enjoy greater quantities of this resource, extending the benefit to different sectors.
Enhanced Operational Efficiency
Improved production processes through resource optimization and reduced costs associated with water use and waste management
National Contribution
Aligned efforts with Morocco’s Ministry of Water and Equipment strategies, amplifying the national impact on water sustainability.
6. Key Lessons Learned
Sustainability Benefits All
A well-executed sustainability strategy enhances business resilience, improves community wellbeing and contributes to national development goals.
Technology Drives Change
Investing in innovative technologies is essential for achieving measurable sustainability outcomes.
Continuous Monitoring is Essential
Leveraging tools like the UN Global Compact's SDG Action Manager ensures transparency and tracks progress while fostering accountability and improvement.
"Through all our subsidiaries, we have ensured compliance with our commitment to water management by placing it at the heart of our priorities.”
Mohamed Zahid, Chief Executive Officer of Menara Holding
7. Company Commitment
In addition to being a participant of the UN Global Compact since 2019, Menara Holding participated in the SDG Ambition Accelerator programme to align their goals with international benchmarks for sustainable water and environmental practices.
8. Recommended Resources
Recommended UN Global Compact Resources
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Disclaimer: This case example is intended strictly for learning purposes and does not constitute an endorsement of the individual companies by the UN Global Compact.