The push for sustainability in product manufacturing is gaining traction. A large and growing number of manufacturers are beginning to realise the substantial financial and environmental benefits that come from sustainable business practices – a win for businesses, consumers, and the planet.
But what does it mean to be sustainable? Sourcing? Manufacturing? Selling?
It can refer to all the above.
Sustainable manufacturing is the “creation of manufactured products through economically-sound processes that minimise negative environmental impacts while conserving energy and natural resources.”
There are several reasons why companies are pursuing sustainability, including an increase in operational efficiency by reducing costs and waste. It also helps companies reach new customers who value sustainability, protecting and strengthening brand and reputation while building public trust and increasing competitive advantage.
And, certainly, not least of all, it helps businesses respond to constraints and opportunities as more regulations are put in place.
Sustainable manufacturing also boosts employee, community, and product safety.
Sustainable Packaging
Sustainability is more than just branding. A product label that says “eco-friendly” or “earth-friendly” or “green” doesn’t necessarily mean it’s sustainable.
Products and production methods that use less energy and fewer packaging materials that have a negative impact on the environment are what can be referred to as sustainable packaging, or green. From a production standpoint, it is important to know the packaging ingredients whether recycled or raw materials were used, and minimise the production process, supply chain and carbon footprint, at every stage.
Biodegradable, compostable, and recyclable materials, like cellulose packaging and recycled cardboard, are currently the most common sustainable packaging solutions. Green packaging options can also be classified based on the materials used and how they are disposed of.
- Biodegradable packaging is often made from plant-based or bio-plastic materials and might include microorganisms that help break down the materials.
- Compostable packaging is made from natural plant materials and can return to the earth naturally.
- Recycling refers to what can be done with packaging once its useful life is over. Recyclable packaging is made from materials that can be recycled at common recycling facilities.
- Post-consumer recycled packaging (often shortened to PCR) is packaging made new using materials that have already been used once and then recycled.
NCCO Sustainable Products and Practices
NCCO International is committed to using eco-friendly packaging and products. This includes compostable labels and piping bags, recyclable #5 propylene clear labels, and BPA-free paper for our register rolls receipt paper and more.
We are also committed to offering products and solutions to help reduce food waste in restaurants, cafés, and diners –
Learn more: Reducing Food Waste in Restaurant Kitchens
And offering resources for food producers, distributors, restaurants, and consumers as well.