B3.11.1 Case Study

 

The following Case Study is taken from an Envirowise publication.

 

CS439

EMS HELPS REDUCE WASTE AND BOOSTS PROFITS FOR DAIRY

(DAIRY PRODUCE PACKERS)

As part of its efforts towards ISO 14001 certification, the company undertook a waste review of the site to identify and categorise areas of waste generation from which a waste minimisation strategy was developed and implemented.

The resulting initiatives included:

  • an assessment of chemical cleaning agents and procedures to reduce downtime and increase productivity;
  • the implementation of a high-pressure wash system, reducing water use by around 24 litres/minute;
  • modifications to the effluent treatment plant to reduce effluent strength, and an alternative disposal to landfill has been found for the sludge generated;
  • the segregation and recycling of waste cardboard, the re-use of wooden pallets, and liaison with suppliers to reduce the amount of cardboard used
  • for packaging incoming goods;
  • the introduction of waste compactors to improve the storage, transfer and disposal of waste.

 

The company set up staff awareness schemes to improve cleaning practices and reduce water use and effluent generation. Staff also attend training seminars to reaffirm the benefits of minimising water use. Waste reduction is incorporated into the company’s targets and objectives and monthly meetings are held to discuss resource efficiency issues.

The waste minimisation strategy led to cost benefits which included:

  • annual savings of over £42 300/year through good housekeeping measures;
  • a saving of £3 700/year from reduced packaging on incoming goods;
  • increased productivity through improved cleaning procedures and reduced downtime.

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