Sustainability as a way of doing business – online exclusive

‘FLEXcon views sustainability not as a program, but as a way of doing business - it's engrained in our culture. The responsibility that we all have as part of the supply chain is to support moving in a direction that has less impact on the environment wherever possible and this means that sustainability is not just about the product, but about the entire process as well.

‘We’re seeing several trends that demonstrate the steps being taking to incorporate sustainability into labels and packaging. For brands that are looking to reduce their overall packaging, thinner gauged label materials can help reduce waste, freight and lower carbon footprint.  To aid in the container washing and recycling process, the use of washable inks and washable adhesives that dissolve cleanly is increasing, as is the use of like films and liners.  Additionally, postconsumer waste content liners offer the same performance as traditional liners, but with an added value of being part of a sustainable forestry system. Even trim excess in the manufacturing and printing processes is being collected, recycled and repurposed into plastic pellets that can be used for totes and other items. 

‘We’re working with customers to implement packaging recycling programs including plastic pallets, cores, and other packaging materials. We also continue to prioritize sustainability through our Environmental Management System, which has resulted in significant reductions in waste and natural resource usage.  We are a proud Platinum sponsor of the Sustainable Green Printing Partnership, and our efforts have been recognized by TLMI as well.’

This opinion supports the ‘Environment and sustainability’ opinion article, as featured in L&L issue 2, 2017