Aztec Label urges others to join Zero Labels 2 Landfill scheme

‘Although the environmental agenda has been increasingly important for businesses over the last few years, 2020 has understandably seen sustainability issues side-lined by many,’ said Colin Le Gresley, managing director of Aztec Label. ‘The challenges during the early stages and at the height of the pandemic meant that many had to prioritize ensuring daily operations could continue and meet production and delivery commitments.

‘But as we emerge into the new normal, it’s worth remembering that many businesses that had previously highlighted their eco-friendly credentials found themselves with a competitive edge. For example, we help many of our own customers meet their sustainability requirements through our use of solar power at our Kidderminster facility and also in our commitment to sending zero waste to landfill from our labels production.’

Aztec Label had been one of the first to sign up to the scheme, sponsored by the British Printing Industry Federation (BPIF). It is open to all companies that produce label waste and covers the entire supply chain. It ensures that matrix waste, glassine, silicon packing paper, waste foil on cores, and set-up reels are diverted and repurposed instead of being sent to landfill. Apart from environmental benefits, it also leads to a streamlined and efficient waste disposal system and potentially brings cost savings to manufacturers.

‘We were an early adopter of the scheme,’ said Le Gresley. ‘We immediately recognized its importance and since 2017 have remained members of what is still one of the only schemes in the UK exclusively operated within our industry aimed at eliminating label waste being sent to landfill.’

Jon Hutton, operational director of Prismm Environmental, said: ‘Aztec Labels approached us in 2017 with the objective of minimizing the environmental impact of waste production throughout their business. From here, they became pioneering members of our Zero Labels 2 Landfill scheme, which diverts label waste from landfill throughout the UK for use as a replacement of fossil fuels in blast furnaces.

‘From here, we began managing all waste output, from general waste, cardboard, and polythene, to hazardous waste, ensuring each waste stream produced is handled and processed compliantly through the waste hierarchy. Aztec Label continues to be proud members of the scheme and receive annual certification from BPIF confirming its commitment to environmental matters within the printing industry.’

For more information on the Zero Labels 2 Landfill scheme, visit www.zerolabels2landfill.com