In a recent thought piece on LinkedIn, our Sales Manager, Mr. Sorin Mitrea showed that returnable plastic packaging solutions are problem solvers in a world focused on sustainability. In this article, we will expand on this idea and show decision makers in companies across all industries how to create a green supply chain.
Going green is no longer about being one step ahead of everyone else. It is actually being in line with the other players in your industry and meeting standard requirements. We can no longer ignore the impact of our business activities on the environment. Apart from the laws that exist in most countries across the globes, consumers have become more exigent in choosing to buy from sustainable brands.
Professional Packaging Helps Companies Go Green
Why do we call our products professional packaging solutions? Because we invest a lot of time, R&D, as well as the input from clients in all industries to create returnable plastic packaging materials that:
- Have a long lifespan
- Have a sturdy build, adequate for repeated use cycles and intense wear and tear
- Meet safety standard specific to each industry
- Help reduce waste and pollution.
These benefits also represent the building blocks of a green supply chain. And this is why Logistic Packaging specialists are strong promoters of smart packaging choices that help companies achieve their business goals and meet environmental protection requirements, as well.
How to Create a Green Supply Chain within Your Organization
Without further introductions, these are our recommendations for companies that want to optimize their supply chain in a sustainable and eco-friendly way:
1. Analyze the Environmental Impact of Your Supply Chain
The first step is to audit the current supply chain, with a special focus on:
- Distance traveled by your products from raw materials to the store shelf
- How many types of packages are used in the production process
- How many single-use packaging materials you use for your products
- How far apart are various production/ assembly facilities and various suppliers.
This analysis will help your organization identify areas that you can improve, reducing your cost and your impact on the environment. For instance, a recent trend is sourcing raw materials and other items necessary in your business activity (including packaging materials) from local vendors and suppliers.
2. Work with Suppliers Who Implement Sustainable Practices
You cannot have a green supply chain without like minded business partners. There is an increased pressure on all companies to demonstrate more accountability in their business practices.
For instance, chocolate brands must prove that they source their cocoa beans ethically, eliminating child labor. Fashion brands have to leave the sweatshop era behind and use fairly paid labor to make their clothes.
The same principles apply to every aspect of your business, including the packaging suppliers. This is for us, the entire team at Logistic Packaging, sustainability is among the core values in everything we do.
3. Reduce the Environmental Impact of Your Products
Your products are at the heart of your supply chain. You can try to achieve a green supply chain by making changes outside your product – but it will not be effective if you do not implement these changes within the product.
From locally sourced raw materials to switching to recyclable primary packaging, companies constantly find ways to make their products more sustainable. As they do so, they also optimize costs and improve their brand reputation among consumers.
4. Implement Returnable Packaging at All Points across the Supply Chain
Plastic pallets, foldable plastic containers, large pallet containers and various ranges of plastic crates and shipping totes help companies store and ship their products in the best conditions. These packaging materials are designed to offer optimal protection, even during rough journeys.
They are also designed with a focus on saving space in the warehouse and reducing transportation costs. Although they have a higher initial purchase price than one-way packaging materials, it is fully amortized thanks to:
- The long lifespan
- The sturdy build, adequate for intense use
- The low total cost of ownership.
5. Recycle All the Eligible Materials
Recycling is one of the most effective ways of creating a green supply chain. Many materials are now recyclable, including returnable plastic packaging materials. In fact, we specify this on the data sheet for each product.
We also use recycled materials to produce specific ranges of reusable packaging materials. Also, the Logistic Packaging specialists are always ready to help your company with advice on the best practices regarding sustainability.
We can assist you in your journey to a completely green supply chain. We will identify any aspects of your packaging that can be improved and recommend the best products for your business needs. Send us an email to start the discussion with one of our packaging experts!