8 March 2024
8 March, 8 Committed women with a capital "C"
They believe that it is possible to take very concrete action to preserve the environment, and to have maximum impact, they have chosen industry. They live in South Africa, Chile, France and Italy, and hold a wide variety of positions. Through their stories, each with notes of optimism, pride and pragmatism, discover how all of them are helping to shape a more sustainable future for our planet.
"The best purchase is the one you avoid"
Eleanor Floyde-Sutcliffe, Process and CSR Purchasing Manager,
Laval, France
Why did you choose to work for Séché Environnement?
I come from the textile industry, which is sometimes criticized on environmental grounds. I wanted to give meaning to my work and waste management was a good fit. I might as well put my skills to good use for the planet!
How does your job enable you to take action to protect the environment?
35% of the Group’s carbon emissions are linked to purchasing. To reduce them, we can reduce our consumption. For example, before placing a large order for non-disposable gloves, I check whether buying a machine to wash them might not be more sustainable. I also support our suppliers in their transition by prioritizing environmentally friendly products.
What role does environmentalism play in your personal life?
My family try to walk rather than drive, we avoid air travel, we reduce packaging… We’re trying to consider the sobriety approach here as well.
"We are also at the service of communities"
Nozipho Radebe, Contracts Manager
Durban, South Africa
What does your job entail?
My company specializes in emergency response to environmental pollution incidents. My role is to offer services to mitigate incidents and to support our clients on a daily basis.
Are there any incidents that have particularly impressed you?
In 2021, our region experienced severe flooding. We responded to chemical and oil spills at our customers’ sites. We also set up booms in the port of Durban and recovered waste brought in by the waters. It was a tragedy, but we were able to make a real contribution.
Why did you choose a career related to environmental protection?
I grew up in a rural community. Nature is what sustains us. Preventing water pollution means preserving the fauna, flora and people who depend on it. It’s very important to me.
"I monitor the quality of the water leaving the industrial site"
Océane Besozzi, Industrial Water Treatment Branch Manager,
Vieux Thann, France
What does your job entail?
I supervise a team of 15 employees who operate the effluent treatment facilities at an industrial chemical site. Every day 3000 m3 of water are returned to the river!
Is the discharge only water?
20% of residual sludge is recycled and used to manufacture cement. The remainder is processed and stored on site as advised by the Group’s environmental department. Taking the surrounding biodiversity into account is a major challenge.
Is the environment a calling?
I grew up in contact with nature. I wanted to use my chemistry studies to help protect this natural wealth. Water treatment enables me to combine these two aspects. Today, I’m proud to say that I’m doing my bit!
"I've always wanted to do something useful for society"
Marisol Garrido, Managing Director
Santiago, Chile
What does your job entail?
I manage Séché’s teams in Chile. We offer solutions to manufacturers and local authorities for better waste management. Our work primarily involves the mining industry, which accounts for 14% of Chile’s economy.
How does your work help protect the environment?
Waste management regulations are fairly new in Chile. I’m delighted to be part of this development. I’ve always wanted to do something useful for society, to provide concrete solutions…
How do you act on your environmental commitment in daily life?
I’m vegan out of respect for animals, but also to reduce my environmental impact. My personal and professional commitment often leads to people asking me questions. I try to explain my point of view, to raise awareness…
"You have to have the will for it and trust yourself when you have convictions"
Mathilde Phan Garrigues, Soil remediation engineer
Montauban, France
What does your job entail?
I oversee the technical aspects of remediation projects, as well as the operational and financial side.
Is cleaning up and “repairing” the environment what motivates you?
Yes, I’m proud to help preserve our habitat, our health and ultimately our planet. I’ve also been a vegetarian for 5 years. I make my own cosmetics, I buy second-hand items… That’s what the circular economy is all about!
You’re a woman with principles. Do people take that well?
You have to find your own way in life, but my colleagues are very supportive. We live together and my ethical choices can give them food for thought. It’s about listening to each other, about team spirit.
"We need more social links to change the world"
Silvia Bonilla, Sustainable Development Manager
Paris, France
What drew you to sustainable development?
Before Séché, I tried to be mindful of the environment, like everyone. When I discovered waste management, it was a revelation: I had to get involved in sustainable development and the environment.
How do you help protect the environment?
I support our international subsidiaries in very concrete projects to reduce their carbon footprint, make better use of water and energy, and protect local biodiversity. I’m from Colombia and I’m passionate about making a positive impact in Latin America and around the world.
How do you raise awareness of these issues?
It’s based on discussion and empathy. Both at work and outside it, I talk to people and listen to them. We can use positive feelings to protect nature.
"At home I can put someone on a bit of a guilt trip if they use the wrong trashcan!"
Marine Lacomme, Shift manager
Montauban, France
Can you tell us about your job?
I operate the plant’s incinerator, from the moment the waste arrives in the pit to the furnace. I follow the process in real time from a computer to optimize combustion.
How does this help protect the environment?
This process produces heat and electricity to supply Montauban. I’m proud to feel I’m helping the city’s population and reducing its energy footprint!
How do you reduce your own footprint?
I’d say like everyone else, I leave the car in the garage as much as possible, I buy second-hand clothes… At home, I put my friends and family on a bit of a guilt trip if they use the wrong trashcan, because after that, it becomes my problem!
"The journey of a waste product is fascinating!"
Paola Manieri, Cross-Border Transfers Manager
Milan, Italy
Can you tell us about your project?
I supervise the transfer of hazardous waste from all over Italy to treatment platforms in Western Europe. I obtain the necessary authorizations from the countries concerned.
How does your role contribute to protecting the environment?
For 12 years now, I’ve been making sure that waste doesn’t end up dumped, but arrives at its destination to be properly treated.
What makes you want to continue in this line of work?
When I discovered what happens to waste once it’s been thrown away, I was immediately fascinated. And I still am today. I love my work, I always talk about it with enthusiasm and it’s a subject that interests people.
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