United Biscuits - Case study: Zero waste to landfill
Already sending zero food waste to landfill, United Biscuits (UB) has been
working hard to also reduce the amount of non food waste that is sent to landfill. In
2009, a 42% reduction in waste to landfill has been achieved compared to 2008.
Since 2006, UB has now reduced its waste to landfill by two thirds and is well on
track to achieving the FDF's zero waste to landfill goal by 2015.
This has been achieved by a range of measures including a big improvement in
recycling facilities at all sites, working with suppliers to reduce waste being
brought into the business e.g. in surplus packing materials for raw ingredients.
Sustainability champions have been appointed at every site and there are
incentives to motivate and encourage employees to maximise recycling.
Some waste products have been recycled into products the business can use again
e.g. waste vegetable oil is now recycled into biodiesel fuel for the logistics
fleet and other items such as old safety shoes are donated to be used by
charities overseas rather than thrown away. Recycled waste has increased by over 50%
compared to 2008 - generating revenue instead of incurring landfill costs.
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Last reviewed: 22 Dec 2009