The desire to create packaging that is more beneficial for the environment is certainly not a new trend. For years, designers and manufacturers have worked hard to produce packaging that is easy to recycle and wastes as little material as possible. However, it’s not only the packaging itself that needs to be addressed in order to reduce waste and save money, the actual production of the materials should also be taken into account.
Contrary to popular belief, the amount of energy used during the manufacture of food packaging is fairly low; just 10% of the total amount of energy used in the food industry is used on packaging production. But nevertheless, sustainability initiatives are becoming increasingly popular, meaning those who don’t take energy-saving into account risk losing out to their competitors.
One of the simplest ways to cut energy costs on packaging production may sound obvious, but it involves assessing the use of machinery to ensure that the right equipment is being used to the best of its ability and nothing is going to waste.
When producing plastic packaging, for example, costs can be considerably lowered by dedicating time to the continuous measurement and management of the process. In some cases, processors can reduce their energy usage by up to 30% – in turn increasing profits by up to 30%.
Not only can you save money by reviewing the effectiveness of your processes but evaluating your business energy supplier, and the type of contract you have, can also help lessen the burden of energy bills. It’s not only the cost of your bills that matter. It pays to assess the benefits that come along with them, such as ongoing help and support and the different types of contract available. Many manufacturers now opt for a ‘flexible’ type of contract that allows you to buy ahead so that you can buy to meet the requirements for large orders.
Managing your procurement
Depending on your energy consumption levels you may need a dedicated member of staff to manage your energy procurement, but partners and suppliers can talk to you about the range of flexible contracts available, which can allow you to take control of your energy costs.
Some firms also appoint Energy Champions– dedicated members of staff who will champion energy management and work with their colleagues to develop ideas and make sure any improvements and energy saving ideas get implemented.
Outsourcing procurement
While your employees may be able to do the job themselves, a strong awareness of the energy market is preferable to ensure that the right deals are found and energy is saved in the right places. For that reason, you might choose to outsource to an energy procurement consultant who knows the market inside out and can hunt down the best business energy solutions.
An energy broker may be more expensive than an in-house member of staff, but you’re likely to see much faster and more effective results than if you gave the role to an employee with less knowledge of energy procurement.
To ensure that your improvements are ongoing, your energy-saving programme needs constant support. By implementing a continual assessment process, you can ensure that costs are being lowered and profits are on the rise. Regular energy audits are usually the best way to do this. Assessing bills, taking meter readings and comparing consumption over several months is often the easiest way to track your improvements, allowing you to recognise and celebrate your successes while also being aware of where improvements are yet to be made.
There is no quick fix when it comes to sustainable energy efficiency improvements, and it can take a few months before you really start to see the results in savings and profits. But with constant support and innovation, it’s possible to create quality packaging without it costing the earth.
