The project designed by BPIF labels and PRISMM Environmental to reduce the amount of production waste going to landfill by diverting this waste to energy recovery is showing signs of success.
The Zero to Landfill project, instigated back in April 2013, is gathering momentum and is based on the collection of matrix and production waste and delivering this to a waste converter who can convert it into bio-mass fuels. A waste converter, Mid UK Recycling, based in Lincolnshire has been selected. For this reason the project was initially based around the South Yorkshire area, however, due to the success of the original pilot this geographical area is being extended across the UK.
The original intention was to offer a ‘milk round’ style collection service for the smaller label converter, however, due to complexities with logistics the project is targeted towards those companies who can fill and store waste cages, enabling a 15 tonne collection to be made. The financial savings are dependent on a number of factors but, the main reason for pursuing this project is to create a ‘greener’ image for the industry with brand owners and supermarkets requiring companies to address and implement environmental issues.
It also makes companies aware of their ‘waste’ and associated costs. This in itself could create a change in production procedures therefore making significant other costs savings on the shop floor.
To date the number of companies that have signed up to the project is 10 and the projected annual volume of waste that is being diverted away from landfill is 6,500 tonnes. Despite this figure it still only represents 3% of the estimated volume of waste that is generated by the self-adhesive label industry.
The Label Makers, in Bradford, embraced the project in August and despite a few initial teething problems is now diverting 240 tonnes a year away from landfill. Internal processes were altered to enable label waste to be segregated and collected on a three weekly cycle. Company director, Zenna Parfaniuk, commented, ‘We are delighted that the Label Makers are involved with this project and leading the way forward with our environmental responsibilities.’
The project will now focus on medium to large converters across the UK with the intention of making bigger inroads into the waste that is currently going to landfill. This is being supported by J & G Environmental which is championing the project and providing with the transport infrastructure.
