2 minute read
They Are Saying
They are telling…
Lionel Socchi, Delegate for the Economic Promotion of the Jura
Interview by Joël A. Grandjean
Regularly, on social networks, this representative of the Republic and Canton of Jura boosts the posts of deserving local companies, re-launches calls for applications for innovative projects... Meet him.
Could our waste one day become raw material?
It is not so utopian. With all the channels involved in recycling, we are already producing raw materials. Apart from the waste that every household recycles, we can also see the recycling of other materials in areas such as construction, for example recycled concrete, organic waste for biogas or other fuels for energy production.
Is ecology, not in the political sense, a sport for the rich and a concern for the wealthy?
Of course, ecological concerns may differ according to social level. However, in Switzerland at least, we have reached a general awareness (...) We are all thinking about finding solutions to reduce our carbon footprint, whether it be in our travels, our consumption habits or even when we have to renovate our homes.
Does environmental responsibility among economic players today go beyond the stage of marketing speeches or good conscience?
I can see several phenomena: firstly, at local level and in our fabric, most large companies have integrated these notions into their way of operating. Machine manufacturers are bringing out products that consume less energy, watchmaking subcontractors are offering more and more components made from recycled materials, and our industry is conducting a real hunt for waste, which is also often synonymous with cost reductions. I am more sceptical about the mass retail sector, for example (...), which prides itself on a certain ecological awareness when its product ranges generate as much or more waste than before. (...). And the creation of new taxes to ease one’s conscience also has its limits.
A solar oven in the Watch Valley? What do you think?
An ambitious project if ever there was one, the technology exists and is being used in France. I applaud it, but I have some reservations. It is becoming increasingly difficult in Switzerland to develop projects that could impact the landscape. We want alternative solutions, but not under our window. Watch shredding cycle
Christian Piller, trainer On several occasions, his scheduled courses at the FSRM, a foundation in Neuchâtel in charge of continuing education, have been postponed. This is a pity, as his 25 years of competence in recycling (CP Recycling Management) enable him to accompany companies which, because of the recent pandemic crisis, have sometimes been revived in their environmental awareness. «The recycling optimization concept that we propose can generate savings of between 10 and 35% compared to current costs”. Any questions? _JAG www.recycling-management.ch
Just look at the wind turbines. Imagine the reactions if we came up today with dam projects like those built in the 60s and 70s, especially in Valais! As for the solar oven, I hope I’m wrong because this project has the merit of launching the debate on recycling and the use of short circuits in the watchmaking world. n
