How to reduce packaging waste from suppliers

1. Understand your packaging waste

In order to reduce packaging waste, you need to understand where it originates and the main types of materials. You can do this by recording materials as they come in and as they are put into the bin or by performing spot checks on your bins for a typical week.  

The objective is to identify what is adding the most weight. Keep a record of reoccurring materials, the items and their usage. For example, identify if the packaging is used to transport products, or packaging used to protect the individual products. Remember to make a note of the individual suppliers responsible for the packaging.

2. Separate materials for recycling   

If your general waste bin contains recyclable materials, then consider a commercial recycling service. Disposing of recyclable materials in general waste is often more expensive because it is subject to certain taxes that don’t affect recycling collections.  

Identify what can and can’t be recycled, you can get this information from bin stickers and signage. If you don’t have that you can contact a sustainable waste management expert from Biffa and arrange a waste audit.   

A Biffa waste audit will help you clearly understand your waste management options. You will be able to identify what you're currently getting right and some areas you can improve with the right service provider.

Materials like soft plastics – shrink wrap and films – are not part of mixed recycling collections but  can be recycled as a specialist service for some business.