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Marelli's Award-Winning Wastewater Recovery Solution in Automotive Manufacturing

Marelli, a prominent global player in mobility technology, has recently achieved a significant milestone by winning the 2025 Altair Enlighten Award in the 'Sustainable Process' category. This prestigious recognition was presented during the CAR Management Briefing Seminars held in Detroit, Michigan on September 16, 2025. The award acknowledges Marelli's groundbreaking Adhesive Wastewater Recovery Solution, which facilitates an impressive recovery of approximately 85% of wastewater produced during the cleaning processes of machinery used in the manufacture of automotive interior parts.

Understanding the Innovation

The core innovation developed by Marelli addresses the critical issue of wastewater management in automotive manufacturing. Typically, after the use of equipment in adhesive bonding—a common method in vehicle interior production—the cleaning process results in wastewater laden with organic solvents, classifying it as industrial waste. Traditionally, such water cannot be reused within other manufacturing operations, requiring proper disposal methods which add to operational inefficiencies and environmental concerns.

Marelli's new process employs a precise formulation of three chemical agents, which, when mixed in specific ratios, enables the separation, condensation, and solidification of adhesive residues from the used water. This clever technique not only recovers usable water but also ensures that the industrial waste is minimized. The resultant water can be redirected into other manufacturing processes within the same facility, presenting a dual advantage in terms of resource efficiency and environmental responsibility.

Implementation and Impact

After conducting extensive tests alongside numerous international suppliers to finalize the most effective chemical combinations, Marelli implemented this innovative method in late 2024 at its facility in Kyushu, Japan. This implementation has yielded tangible results, with the plant achieving a remarkable reduction in water usage by 8,160 kilograms annually. The company expresses its intent to broaden the application of this approach to its other facilities.

Aligning with Sustainability Goals

This achievement is a part of Marelli's broader sustainability strategy, emphasizing water conservation and responsible resource management within its operations. Tsukasa Fujii, President of Marelli's Interiors division, expressed gratitude for the recognition, reinforcing the company's commitment to resource efficiency—a principle deeply embedded in Marelli's culture. He stated, "Winning the Altair Enlighten Award is a testament to our continuous efforts to innovate and enhance sustainability within the automotive sector. This solution is built on Japanese principles of efficiency and strong leadership across our facilities. We aim to collaborate closely with automotive OEMs to drive forward a more sustainable industry, establishing new standards with this technology."

Marelli’s Commitment to the Future

As a global leader in mobility technology, Marelli's mission revolves around transforming the future of automotive mobility through collaborations with partners and clients to foster a safer, greener, and better-connected world. With around 40,000 employees working across more than 150 sites internationally, Marelli is committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation in automotive technology.

By winning the Altair Enlighten Award, Marelli not only showcases its leadership in sustainable manufacturing practices but also sets a precedent for future innovations in the automotive sector. The positive environmental impact of their Adhesive Wastewater Recovery Solution is expected to encourage further development and adoption of sustainable practices within the industry, helping pave the way for a more circular economy.