To align with the UK Government’s plans to reduce carbon emissions, we are introducing a Net Zero Strategy to reach net-zero emissions by 2050.
The term ‘net zero’ is the pledge to reduce man-made greenhouse gas emissions by balancing the carbon emitted into the atmosphere and the carbon removed. We are implementing this through different techniques such as renewable energy projects and improving our office behaviour practices.
One of the first steps we have taken to help reach this goal of Net Zero by 2050 is to reduce the amount of waste that we create. Our warehouses heavily rely on large quantities of waste materials to safely package our goods. So, reducing our plastic consumption and using more environmentally friendly alternatives will help us achieve our targets.
The changing materials now include:
Pallet wrap is the largest contributor to our waste and plastic consumption due to standard pallet wrap containing PVC that cannot be recycled or reused easily. PVC is a highly toxic chemical that can harm sea life and pollute the earth. We have now switched our pallet wrap to a 100% recyclable alternative which is made from 30% recycled materials. This has led to us reducing the waste left in landfills, and removes any pollutants being emitted by using this new material.
Tape
Our branded tape was another contributor to our plastic usage. Like pallet wrap, our tape is made from polypropylene which cannot be recycled and is not biodegradable. Therefore, they end up in landfills taking centuries to break down. We have now swapped from polypropylene tape to gummed paper tape. This tape is 100% recyclable, 100% biodegradable and made from natural materials. It can also be recycled with boxes so there is no need for removal.
Boxes and Envelopes
Our previous boxes and envelopes were both recyclable. However, we want to go that one step further to ensure our packaging causes no harm to the environment. Both our envelopes and cardboard boxes are now made from recycled materials as well as being recyclable. We have also certified that both these products are now 100% biodegradable, meaning if not recycled, they will decompose naturally through bacteria or organisms, avoiding polluting landfills.
Our old plastic tenzalopes which are used for important documents were oxo-biodegradable. Oxo-degradable solutions work by re-breaking down plastics using chemicals. However, these can do more harm than good as they damage ecosystems through ‘micro-plastics’. Therefore, swapping to a more eco-conscious choice was crucial. We now use a paper alternative which is 100% bio-degradable and needs no separating before recycling with other paper or cardboard.
We have a constant flow of deliveries in and out of our warehouse, many of which are different forms of packaging. As a company committed to reducing our impact on the environment, where we can, we ensure that we recycle or reuse these materials. This includes bubble wrap, kraft paper and many other materials.
It is not just in our warehouse where we look to make significant changes. In our offices, we have banned the use of single plastic consumption. This includes replacing all single-use water bottles with personal refillable bottles to reduce our waste. We also have a new wastage system put in place to help improve our recycling levels and reduce waste that is sent to landfills.
As technology develops, adapts, and changes towards making a positive impact on the environment, we will continue to develop with these new methods and adopt different techniques and processes to help combat climate change.
Reducing our plastic consumption and usage, as well as our other missions can help us build a more sustainable future and help reach our goals of Net Zero by 2050.
To find out more about our journey to Net Zero by 2050, read more here.