NCCO International There are several financial and environmental benefits that come of sustainable business practices – a win for businesses, consumers, and the planet.
But the question remains: What does it mean to be sustainable?
Many companies claim to use sustainable practices in their sourcing and manufacturing practices. However, many of these companies are simply “greenwashing” – i.e., claiming to be committed to earth-friendly and environmental initiatives and business practices when instead they are engaging in the opposite.
To be considered truly sustainable, a company must be engaged in the “creation of manufactured products through economically-sound processes that minimize negative environmental impacts while conserving energy and natural resources.”
And there are good reasons why companies are pursuing sustainability: Increasing in operational efficiency by reducing costs and waste, strengthening brand reputation while building public trust, reaching new customers who value sustainability, and increasing competitive advantage by being at the vanguard of evolving manufacturing practices.
And, as businesses face more scrutiny, constraints and opportunities as more regulations are put into place to protect the environment and the public, it can help protect your business as well.
Sustainable Manufacturing
Products and production methods that use less energy and fewer packaging materials can be referred to as sustainable packaging, or green. These methods will reduce their negative impact on the environment. From a production standpoint, it is important to be aware of packaging, whether recycled or raw materials were used, and how to minimize the production process and carbon footprint throughout the manufacturing process.
As we mentioned above, 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.
Biodegradable, compostable, and recyclable materials, like cellulose packaging and recycled cardboard, are a few popular sustainable packaging options currently available. Green packaging options can also be classified by materials used and sustainable ways they are disposed of.
- Biodegradable packaging – made of plant-based or bio-plastic materials that break down and leave no trace and might include microorganisms that help break down the materials.
- Compostable packaging – made from natural plant materials and can return to the earth naturally.
- Recycling – made from materials that can be recycled at common recycling facilities and refers to what can be done with packaging once its initial life purpose is over.
- Post-consumer recycled packaging (PCR) – made from materials that have already been used once and then recycled and turned into new packaging.
NCCO Sustainable Products and Practices
NCCO has long been committed to sustainability in both using eco-friendly packaging and products wherever possible. This includes recyclable #5 propylene clear labels, BPA-free paper for our register rolls receipt paper, and upgrading your kitchen with our DateCodeGenie® which helps reduce food waste and lowering carbon footprint through automated labeling.
We are also committed to offering products and solutions to help reduce food waste in restaurants, cafés, and diners –
Learn more: The Tools You Need to Increase Efficiency and Safety in Your Restaurant
And offering resources for food producers, distributors, restaurants, and consumers as well.