Cobra International releases sustainability progress report

Cobra International (Chonburi, Thailand) has released its fifth annual Sustainability Development Report: “Positive Impact.” The company says this report demonstrates its commitment to creating positive changes for society and the environment. Cobra has been known for its sustainable technologies and products, including its CocoMat coconut fiber technology and bio-based surfboards, which meet the highest ECOBOARD requirements set by Sustainable Surf and carry the ECOBOARD GOLD logo.

In addition, Cobra celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2018 and has been focusing on improvements in both operations and the workplace.

Cobra has made several changes to improve its sustainable operations practices:

• The company has implemented a 33% reduction in water usage. Cobra says that water is a high priority area since it plays such an important role in the manufacturing process. As well as continuing to reduce the amount of water, Cobra is committed to improving the quality of wastewater before it is released back into the industrial estate’s water system.
• The gasoline that is used for transportation between operational facilities has been reduced by 20% through the use of smaller vehicles.
• In 2017, the company built a waste station to effectively manage waste separation. Waste is split into toxic, recyclable and nontoxic waste. As a result, Cobra says it has reduced non-toxic waste by 6%. The company has set a target for a further 20% reduction in 2019.
• After introducing a biomass system in 2017, Cobra says it has now completely transitioned to utilizing this system instead of fuel oil. 

“We are proud to launch our 5th Sustainability Development Report. This report reflects our ongoing commitment to sustainability in product development and operations,” says Danu Chotikapanich, CEO of Cobra International.

Cobra is also working to improve its workplace for its employees:

• Cobra says that it encourages its employees to create green areas around the company’s facility. During the last year, 80 square meters of green areas were added, along with 350 additional trees. These green spaces are sustained partially through collected rainwater, and waste is used to generate fertilizer. 
• Cobra’s Happy Workplace program focuses on both the physical and mental wellness of its people. The company organizes activities such as sports events, employee gatherings and local celebrations to ongoing personal development. Employees also take part in blood donations and the company sponsors disadvantaged children and organizes humanitarian relief programs.