The ISO 14001:2004 standard is a benchmark for environmental control and the development of targets to reduce the environmental impact of the organisation's activities.

The standard was awarded to the Watts Group's Gloucestershire site which covers rubber compounding from Watts Industrial Polymers and the manufacture of industrial wheels by Watts Industrial Tyres, as well as the distribution of industrial tyres to the OEM and replacement markets.

Roy Minett, Group Health Safety and Quality Manager said: "It has taken two years with a steep learning curve, but thanks to the co-operation of the employees on site we are now able to limit our environmental impact both locally and globally.''

The ISO 14001 accreditation complements and supports the BSEN ISO 9001:2000 registration already held by each company in the group and illustrates the commitment of the management and employees of the Watts Industrial Group to sustainable development and an environmentally secure future. The addition of this standard reinforces the position of the group as a major global player in industrial tyres and rubber compounding.

The Watts Group takes social responsibility very seriously and it always been one of the key values of the 4th generation family business. Whether it is supporting the local hospital in the company's hometown, or providing funding to help the victims of the Tsunami in the vicinity of its Sri Lankan factory, Watts is committed to its corporate social responsibilities principles.

"It is not just what you make, but how you make it and how you look after the workforce'' commented Watts Tyre Group MD, Doug Pearson.

Carlo Piccirilli, Watts Industrial Tyres Sales and Marketing Director said: "When you are working with world class companies such as Toyota, having the top level ISO standards helps them to understand that you are a professional and effective supplier.''

"Watts Tyres and Polymers takes a very responsible attitude to environmental issues and, increasingly, our major customers are demanding accreditation as a condition of supply."

In another initiative, the Watts Group has also developed a creative solution to the industry-wide issue of end of life tyres, after land fill disposal was prohibited by the government. Watts has developed an environmentally sustainable and commercially viable solution - terrasofta; a fun and safe rubber play surface for domestic or communal play areas.

Watts Industrial Tyre website: www.industrialtyre.com
Watts Group website: www.wattsonline.co.uk
Terrasofta: www.terrasofta.co.uk