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Autex Acoustics: Leading the Sustainability Charge
Global company Autex Acoustics is a role model for sustainability, pioneering new technologies and materials in its efforts to protect and nurture people and the planet.
Fifty years ago – before sustainability was a global buzzword – New Zealand’s Autex Acoustics was founded. From the beginning, the company has designed, made and supplied top-of-class, distinctive acoustic panels but it has also been consistently driven by a commitment to protect the planet. This dedication is built into every element of the business, which adapts and changes as technologies evolve and market demands shift.
Every decision made at Autex is guided by five key pillars: climate action, circularity, wellbeing in buildings, sustainable supply chain, and purpose and profit. These factors influence everything from material choice and product design to manufacturing and business operations. This overarching approach saw Autex become entirely carbon neutral across its global operations in 2021, an achievement it continues to build on as it aims towards a net-positive environmental impact. Driving change in the broader industry – which is responsible for up to 50 per cent of the waste going to landfill in New Zealand – is also a key priority.
Innovations in materials and new technologies allow Autex to offer leading, sustainable products that respond to market demand while going above and beyond industry and legal expectations of sustainability. A commitment to circularity is embedded in the development of each product. Autex has recently pioneered a new machine that converts PET waste – a primary material in the production of acoustics – and panels at end of life into solid pellets that can be used by both Autex and other makers to create a range of accessories.
Autex doesn’t just work in a silo. The company recognises that positive change – both internally and externally – can only be realised by collaborating with other designers, builders and manufacturers. Autex is in constant dialogue with the market to find sustainable solutions and innovations, and works with those who specify and use its products to ensure the impacts of those products are considered throughout their lifecycle.
Having minimal impact on the environment is essential, and Autex is working to go beyond this by aiming for a net-positive impact on nature. At present, it offsets the carbon emissions of its products through a certified carbon credit scheme, makes products from recycled bottle flakes and is constantly looking for new ways to improve operations.
The company is also dedicated to funding social development programs and contributing to local ecological restoration. This commitment has already been achieved in New Zealand and Autex now plans to expand the same commitment to its global operations.
Autex Acoustics proves that by building sustainability from the beginning, real industrywide change can be affected.
