SME Sustainability Story: Bathco

In an era where sustainability is no longer optional but essential, Bathco AG stands out as a trailblazer SME (small- and medium-sized enterprise) in the aluminium industry. Despite operating in one of the most energy-intensive sectors, they demonstrate how innovation, responsibility and smart business can go hand in hand. Their sustainability story is not one of adaptation but one of leading with integrity.

Employees at Bathco raising the SDG Flag

Who is Bathco AG?

Bathco AG operates at the intersection of raw materials trading, upcycling, and technological advancement. Specialising in Green Aluminium, the supply of critical raw materials, and improving the smelting process, the company is deeply invested in fostering a circular economy and shaping the future of aluminium production.

The aluminium sector presents a paradox as it is crucial to the green transition due to its application in electrification and infrastructure, yet it is also one of the most carbon-intensive industries. Bathco tackles this challenge head-on, aligning its core mission with sustainability and reducing the sector's environmental footprint through forward-thinking initiatives.

A success story from Switzerland to Cameroon

One of Bathco's most impactful sustainability milestones comes from its collaboration with its technological arm Metsol. In a major joint project, they successfully upgraded the ALUCAM Aluminium smelter in Cameroon. The project involved financing and implementing Metsol's proprietary pot control system, APC+, a technological leap expected to cut up to 1 million tons of CO2 emissions annually. This groundbreaking technology is cost-efficient and relatively easy to install.

The benefits are manifold:

• Environmental impact: Significant CO2 reductions

• Economic resilience: Improved production efficiency and stability

• Social value: Strengthened the viability of a major local employer, supporting around 1'000 jobs in Cameroon

This initiative is a clear example of how technological innovation can deliver measurable impact, thus combining increased business performance with societal well-being and reduced environmental impact.

Why Bathco joined the UN Global Compact

The decision to join the UN Global Compact stemmed from Bathco's sustainability-first mindset. They saw it as a natural step in their mission to drive positive change in the Aluminium industry, as they recognize the crucial role the sector plays as well as the environmental challenges it poses. By embracing the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact, Bathco reaffirmed its dedication to ethical business practices, environmental responsibility, and sustainable innovation.

"The framework provided by the UN Global Compact has helped shape our sustainability initiatives, from enhancing our circular economy efforts, to developing technologies that improve the efficiency and environmental footprint of Aluminium production"

Advice for other SMEs

Bathco encourages fellow SMEs to view the energy transition as an opportunity, not a constraint. As they put it:

"Doing the right thing and building a thriving business are not mutually exclusive —on the contrary, they reinforce each other. Sustainability is not just a responsibility; it is the biggest opportunity of our time"

They also emphasize that aligning sustainability initiatives with economic impact makes them easier to justify and scale, whether that be to banks, shareholders, employees or other stakeholders.

Conclusion: Bathco's impact and the road ahead

Bathco's story is a powerful example of how SMEs can lead the way in sustainable innovation, especially in traditionally high-impact industries. By embedding sustainability into their core strategy, investing in game-changing technology, and aligning with frameworks like the UN Global Compact, Bathco is proving that sustainability and business success are not only compatible but mutually reinforcing.

As we continue to support companies in their sustainability journey, stories like Bathco's remind us of the transformative power of bold action, long-term thinking, and cross-sector collaboration. We're proud to have Bathco as a participant of the UN Global Compact Network Switzerland & Liechtenstein and look forward to seeing their impact grow even further.

If you are an SME and interested in inspiring fellow SMEs with your sustainability success story, do not hesitate to contact our Sustainability Advisor via email: fabio.gfeller@globalcompact.ch.

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Disclaimer: The SME Stories are intended strictly for learning purposes and do not constitute an endorsement of the individual companies. Unless otherwise indicated, the content is not intended to reflect the official positions, views or opinions of the UN Global Compact Network Switzerland and Liechtenstein. The case study does not make any assessment of whether the companies presented fully meet the requirements of the Global Compact Ten Principles. The aim is rather to demonstrate the feasibility of sustainability management and to offer SMEs suggestions for their own implementation.

Photo credits: Bathco AG