FX Máquinas, a machine industry for the footwear, apparel, and automotive sectors located in Novo Hamburgo/RS, is the first company in its segment to be certified with the Origem Sustentável (Sustainable Origin) certification. The certificate was presented on September 30th at the company’s headquarters and was attended by FX’s board of directors and representatives from the Brazilian Association of Companies of Components for Leather, Footwear and Artifacts (Assintecal).

With five years in operation, FX Máquinas was certified at the Bronze level (more than 20% of indicators achieved). The company’s director, Eduardo Luis Odorico, said the company began its sustainability practices in 2022, with an initial focus on actions to reduce environmental impacts and increase operational efficiency. One of the first examples was the implementation of selective waste collection and internal recycling programs. In the first few years, an environmental awareness program was also implemented with employees, reinforcing the importance of the topic in the company’s daily operations. According to him, the ESG practices were encouraged by some of the main clients, especially Bibi, one of the largest producers of children’s footwear in Brazil. “Today, our focus is on the social and governance pillars; we donate basic food baskets to social institutions in the region and also work in line with all Brazilian legislation,” he commented.

“Filter”

According to Odorico, the Origem Sustentável certification acts as a “filter” for companies seeking suppliers with the best sustainability practices, making the business more competitive. Furthermore, Odorico continues, the program helps improve processes and management. “It generates value through resource savings, compliance with legal standards, increased transparency, brand visibility, and ease of opening new markets, especially with buyers who demand proof of sustainable practices,” he concluded.

Odorico states that, in the area of sustainability, the next steps include expanding the positive social impact through initiatives with surrounding communities and seeking new certifications and partnerships with leading sustainability organizations.

Program

Created by Assintecal in partnership with the Brazilian Association of Footwear Industries (Abicalçados) in 2013, the Origem Sustentável program is based on the best international sustainability practices, following the guideline of 104 indicators distributed across five dimensions: economic, environmental, social, cultural, and sustainability management. The certified categories are: Diamond (+80% of indicators achieved); Gold (+60%); Silver (+40%), and Bronze (+20%). Audits are conducted by independent bodies such as SENAI, SGS, ABNT, Intertek, and Bureau Veritas. Currently, more than 110 companies in the footwear production chain are certified or are in the certification process. Renewals occur every two years. More information is available on the website www.origemsustentavel.org.br.