Waste minimisation
Reduce your waste, save money - less:
- waste to dispose of
- raw materials purchased
- staff time in handling the waste.
Think!
Everyone can reduce their waste, it just takes a little thought. Would you like to be a case study? We are looking for one of the following types of retailer to show best pracitice. Are you a:
Types of likely waste:
Cardboard
Usually from boxes of raw materials or products to sell. Ask your supplier if they can supply your goods in reusable containers or if they are willing to take the boxes back.
Paper
Think before you print, the majority of waste paper in offices comes from unnecessary printing of emails, and extra copies of letters. Always use print double sided, and make up pads of paper to reuse the back for rough notes.
Envelopes
Do you really need an envelope? Could it be sent electronically? Use internal reusable envelopes for internal business. mail preference service to reduce your junk mail.
Plastic
Usually from wrapping material or from catalogues sent in the post. Speak to your suppliers to see if they can reduce the amount of plastic they use in packaging; don't forget you are paying for the plastic with the product and having to pay to get rid of it.
Polystyrene
Will fill your bin up really quickly and cannot be recycled in the Vale. There are environmentally friendly alternatives available for this material including carboard packing and cornstarch materials. The only way to reduce this is to not accept products using this type of material as packaging - speak to your suppliers.
Wooden pallets
Pallets can be reused several times so ask your suppliers to take them back, or use them yourselves for shipping your goods out.
Contact
For free advice contact the Government funded initiative for businesses Envirowise
e. visible@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk or t. 01446 700111