Over the past year, the Solbiate, Italy team has implemented several impactful initiatives to reduce carbon emissions and promote circular practices in packaging and transportation. Here are three standout efforts:
1. Switch to Recycled Packaging Materials
Solbiate transitioned from using 100% virgin polyethylene stretch wrap to BiGreen stretch wrap, which contains 60% recycled plastic. This eco-friendly material is certified by the Plastica Seconda Vita label, ensuring it’s made from post-consumer plastic waste.
Impact: This change has reduced CO₂ emissions by 13,000 kg annually.
2. Greener Resin Transport with Recycled IBC Tanks
The site also adopted Green Layer intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) for resin transport. These containers are made with 30% recycled plastic and feature a three-layer structure that maintains durability while reducing environmental impact.
Impact: Each container saves 6.8 kg of CO₂, contributing to a significant reduction across operations. In total CO₂ was reduced by more than 74,003 mt across Europe in 2024.
3. Reusing and Repurposing Wooden Pallets
The team at Solbiate launched two key pallet reuse initiatives:
- Reusing CP3 Pallets: Previously discarded CP3 pallets are checked for structural integrity and reused in shipments to a partner site, preventing waste. Saving approximately 35 poplar trees per year.
- Using Second-Hand CP1 Pallets: In collaboration with a local supplier, Solbiate now uses phytosanitarily treated second-hand pallets that meet international shipping standards.
Recognized for Green Logistics Excellence
Advancing greener initiatives in Solbiate have not gone unnoticed. Italy’s Green Logistics Radar recently featured the site, and a leading industry publication highlighted it for its sustainable logistics practices.
Why It Matters
These initiatives reflect our broader commitment to reducing our environmental footprint and building a more sustainable supply chain. By rethinking packaging, transportation, and reuse strategies, Solbiate is setting a strong example of how innovation and sustainability go hand in hand to advance greener inititatives.
Stay tuned for more, Sustainability Spotlights, as we showcase how our global sites are driving meaningful environmental change.
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