CLD Systems Director, Russell Wells reflects on the past year and discusses how the business is setting the benchmark with sustainable goals.

In an era marked by growing environmental consciousness, industries across the globe are actively seeking innovative ways to embrace sustainability. However, one sector that has often been overlooked in this context is Security.

As companies navigate the waves of environmental awareness, the security sector finds itself at the cusp of a profound transformation. Often relegated to the side lines of sustainability discussions, security is now undergoing a metamorphosis that seeks to unite protection with preservation.

Nevertheless, a transformative shift is currently underway, reshaping the security industry’s approach to sustainability. This shift underscores the industry’s growing realisation that safeguarding the environment is inseparable from ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals and assets.

CLD Systems in long-term commitment to sustainability

Helping to create a more Sustainable world requires leadership with a long-term commitment to acting responsibly. Although the security industry may not be considered a leader in sustainability when compared with others, such as consumer electronics, many in the industry have made great strides.

Yet the journey to transform the security industry into a sustainable powerhouse is not without its challenges. For CLD the primary hurdle lies in garnering support from its stakeholders and ensuring that sustainable solutions are viewed as valuable investments rather than burdensome costs. Overcoming this obstacle requires collective efforts to integrate sustainable practices throughout the industry, promoting product reuse and longevity, while dispelling the misconception that sustainability compromises profitability.

Driving the security industry towards sustainability requires designing sustainable products and solutions from project inception and allocating adequate budgets for them. By embedding sustainability as a core consideration, the industry can proactively implement sustainable solutions on a wider scale. Achieving this vision requires collaboration among all stakeholders and a commitment to challenging the status quo.

As sustainability continues to be at the very core of business strategies, both supply chain transparency and low carbon footprints are key to retaining consumers and installers alike.

Untapped potential for smaller ventures

The increasing priority placed on sustainable solutions by customers across various industries has begun to influence the security sector as well. While larger projects have made notable strides in adopting sustainability, there remains untapped potential for smaller ventures.

CLD, a leading UK manufacturer and supplier of rigid mesh fencing and security gates, showcases its commitment to sustainable solutions with the integration of its On-Ground FenceSafe product during the construction phase of projects.

Made with a 100% recycled base and 78% recycled steel, this product serves a dual purpose. It can be used during construction and then converted into a permanent fenceline or easily deployed on the next project, showcasing the versatility of such solutions and promoting positive sustainable outcomes.

By utilising recycled materials, CLD not only showcases the versatility of sustainable solutions but also significantly reduces carbon emissions and waste generation, making a positive impact on the environment.

The On-Ground FenceSafe range is positioned directly on the ground, eliminating the need for physical tools, streamlining operations whilst minimising resource consumption. This approach effectively minimises environmental impact and lowers carbon emissions.

The security industry’s shift towards sustainability is driven by the customer’s heightened awareness of environmental concerns and their desire to align their projects with sustainable values. The increasing demand for sustainable products highlights the evolving landscape of consumer expectations, where sustainability has emerged as a pivotal factor in decision-making.

This trend is illustrated by the increasing number of clients seeking BREEAM excellence, the science-based suite of validation and certification system for sustainably built environments. This places a significant responsibility on CLD as manufacturers to challenge conventional norms and offer inventive, sustainable solutions. In pursuit of this goal, CLD engages with contractors involved in zero-to-waste initiatives, further reinforcing their dedication to sustainable practices.

Rental options

In response to the ever-evolving nature of the security sector, CLD has emerged with a solution that aligns with sustainable principles: rental options. This approach offers clients greater flexibility while minimising waste.

The RiseMaster HE Barrier, an automatic boom arm barrier system powered entirely by solar energy, exemplifies this commitment. Featuring primary and secondary photovoltaic panels, it eliminates the need for road crossing control cabling during installation, reducing environmental impact and carbon emissions. With 24/7 solar autonomy 365 days a year and zero carbon emissions over a 10-year life cycle, it sets a new standard for sustainable security solutions.

Ideal for settings such as secure compounds, construction sites and events that require vehicular control, the product has been designed with sustainability in mind.

The integration of Bluetooth connectivity reduces the reliance on physical tools, streamlining operations and minimising resource consumption. The barrier system not only offers a more environmentally friendly option thanks to being completely solar powered, but also reduces carbon emissions due to no groundworks being required during installation.

Its FenceSafe battery container allows static equilibrium of the system and housing of the batteries to be combined within the same container, providing users with a convenient and efficient solution for managing and securing its battery whilst reducing the amount of space required.  

Like many of CLD’s solutions, the RiseMaster is available on a rental basis, offering flexible on ground physical security that can be quickly and easily commissioned and removed. The system is available in both surface mount version – free standing and rapidly deployable – as well as a permanent version. These integrated security solutions cater to the entire project lifecycle, seamlessly transforming temporary installations into permanent ones. With advanced technology and sustainable practices, CLD delivers trusted and eco-friendly security solutions across diverse applications.

Accelerating the sustainability journey

At CLD, we’ve been passionate about designing and manufacturing sustainable security solutions for over 50 years. We feel truly privileged to work within this incredible industry every day.

We are aware of the rising threat of greenwashing throughout competing industries and so it is hugely important for us to document regular updates on our sustainability achievements. That’s why, throughout 2023 and beyond, we look to accelerate our sustainability journey. At the heart of my vision lies a steadfast commitment to sustainable solutions without compromising on security or longevity.

Moving forward, I will lead CLD’s efforts to provide an exceptional client experience globally. This includes developing more sustainable and flexible product ranges, encompassing on-ground, off-grid and rentable assets. By tailoring solutions to meet specific client needs, CLD aims to provide the perfect fit for every project.”

As the security industry aligns itself with the broader environmental movement, CLD’s commitment to offering rental solutions and solar-powered innovations paves the way for a greener and more secure future. Its strategic emphasis on rental options aligns perfectly with the contemporary emphasis on circular economies and resource optimisation.

By embracing collaboration, innovation, and sustainable product design, the industry can make a significant impact in addressing environmental challenges while meeting customer demands for a more sustainable and secure world.

As we look toward the future, CLD’s trajectory paints a promising picture for the security industry. CLD stands as a testament to the fact that embracing the challenges of sustainability can lead not only to a greener world, but also to a more secure one.

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