#USA #Atlanta #Dematic #Cradle to Cradle #Multishuttle 2

Dematic Multishuttle 2 Achieves Significant Sustainability Milestone

Dematic, a global leader in supply chain automation, has recently announced that their Multishuttle 2 system has become the first automated storage and retrieval system (AS/RS) based on shuttle technology to achieve the Cradle to Cradle Certified® Bronze recognition. This prestigious certification highlights the importance of transparency and sustainable solutions in the materials handling industry.

Strength in Sustainability

Chris Steiner, Senior Vice President of Product Management at Dematic, expressed pride in this accomplishment. “The Dematic Multishuttle 2 has been integral to our customers’ operations for the past two decades,” he noted. “This distinction underscores our commitment to sustainable innovation across our supply chain and holds us accountable to continually improve our production systems.”

The Multishuttle 2 is a high-speed AS/RS that stores, manages, consolidates, and sequences inventory to increase storage density. Since its commercial launch in 2006, it has played a pivotal role in implementing Industry 4.0 principles in logistics, solidifying its position within Dematic’s automation portfolio.

Rigorous Certification Process

The Cradle to Cradle certification process rigorously assesses products for their safety, circularity, and responsible manufacturing practices. Dematic’s Multishuttle 2 complied with strict standards pertaining to materials health, recyclability, renewable energy usage, responsible water management, and social equity. This assessment included a comprehensive evaluation of emissions throughout the product lifecycle and the management of recovery at the end of that cycle, ensuring that sustainability is an integral part of the solution.

Dr. Annette Winterl, the project leader for EPEA—the evaluating entity of the Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute—commented on the complexities involved in the evaluation of the Multishuttle 2. “From an evaluative standpoint, the Dematic Multishuttle 2 project was technically and logistically demanding and interesting,” she stated. With hundreds of components and a diverse supply chain, it stands out as one of the most complex products evaluated. The certification serves as a testament that leading companies can drive innovation by making responsible material decisions and promoting transparent supply chains.

Continued Improvement and Future Goals

The “Full Scope Bronze” certification specifically applies to the systems produced at the Stříbro plant in the Czech Republic and will remain valid until June 2028. Susanne Felker, a research engineer at Dematic, noted the system's high material reuse rate and the identification of new areas for further enhancement. “Achieving this Cradle to Cradle certification marks the beginning of a continuous technological improvement journey,” she highlighted.

For further details on Dematic's circular economy strategy and their vision for a more sustainable future, the 2024 Sustainability Annual Report is now available for download. To learn more about Dematic, visit dematic.com or follow them on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

About Dematic

Dematic is a global leader in automated supply chain solutions, providing advanced technologies and software that power and sustain customer operations. With R&D centers, manufacturing facilities, and service hubs situated in over 26 countries, Dematic's global network—comprising approximately 10,000 employees—has integrated and supported solutions for many leading global brands. Headquartered in Atlanta, Dematic is a member of the KION Group, one of the largest suppliers of industrial trucks and supply chain solutions worldwide.