Three Steps Towards Net Zero
The UK Government has committed to achieving Net Zero by 2050. This is a necessary target to protect our world, yet it is only achievable if we all play our part. What three steps are Aylesbury Box Company taking to minimise our environmental impact by 2025?
What does Net Zero Mean?
Net zero means greatly reducing the carbon emissions that are generated through energy use, transport, agriculture, industry and waste management. The transition to electric vehicles, renewable technology and circular economy are ways to put this in action.
A significant reduction in carbon emissions is essential, however, they can’t be completely eradicated. To become net zero, methods of carbon capture, usage and storage are needed to offset the emissions and keep things in balance. This includes the protection of forests, peat bogs and other natural habitats that naturally absorb carbon.
Why is Net Zero Important?
Since the industrial revolution, the world has been advancing at a great pace. Unfortunately, the many benefits and innovations have often come with an environmental cost. Scientists have been warning us about the rise in global temperatures and its impact for decades. Now we are all experiencing an increase in natural disasters and unless we can redress the balance, the effects are likely to be catastrophic.
Aylesbury Box Company’s Commitment to Net Zero
The Government’s target is only achievable if every individual and business accepts its role and responsibilities in cutting emissions. This is not a political issue; it is a social and environmental challenge that demands collaboration and action.
At Aylesbury Box Company, we have been actively investing in reducing the impact of our operations. In the last decade, we have streamlined processes, switched to LED lighting as part of wider energy efficiency and carbon reduction measures. We have also switched 75% of our fleet to fully electric cars and have introduced a Cycle to Work scheme.
Last year we achieved FSC® certification for our sustainable products and processes. With a commitment to continuous improvement, we have set three sustainability targets to achieve by 2025.
We aim to:
Achieve zero waste to landfill by 2025
Good design and planning have minimised the offcuts from our manufacturing process. All cardboard waste, including rejected raw material and damaged cardboard boxes, is collected and recycled. The fibres are converted into paper in the UK, and a percentage of it will make it back to us for making future boxes! Measured by weight, this recycled cardboard represents 98% of our waste.
We encourage our team to be thoughtful about waste management. Where possible, we opt for refillable, reusable and recyclable options. All miscellaneous waste is collected by a local company, sorted and either recycled or incinerated to produce energy.
Produce 100% Recyclable & Biodegradable Packaging by 2025
The majority of our packaging is cardboard, carton board or paper. This typically comprises 80% recycled fibre and 20% virgin fibre content, although we also supply 100% recycled cardboard packaging. This is all 100% recyclable and biodegradable.
We actively encourage customers to switch to cardboard packaging, although in some cases, plastic elements are still a requirement. We aim to ensure that all plastic packaging is both recyclable and biodegradable by 2025.
Use 100% water-based Inks by 2025
Flexographic print is our preferred method of personalising packaging for customers. This process uses 100% water-based ink. At present, we achieve 50% water-based inks for lithographic printing, however, we are working towards 100% by 2025.
These three steps will build on our achievements to date and will support our transition to being a fully sustainable packaging supplier. In turn, this enables our customers to evidence sustainability through their supply chain. This is an essential component in their environmental policy and the conscious decisions being made by the end consumer.
Your Sustainability Goals
We invite all Aylesbury Box Company customers to let us know about your sustainability goals. Through collaboration, we will endeavour to help you achieve them. It is only with joined-up thinking that we can influence positive environmental change.
For further information on sustainable options for your packaging requirements, get in touch with our team on 01296 436888 or enquiries@abcbox.co.uk.
