As landfills rise and reach capacity waste reduction is something Western Packaging and other agricultural companies need to talk about. It is important that we find solutions and not become a part of a growing problem.
Even if you implement one new idea you are making progress. Hopefully, these tips for agricultural waste reduction will help your business become better stewards of their waste.
Preventing Waste
The first step in waste reduction is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Sometimes we don’t even realize how wasteful we are being until we really just pay attention. Co-operative buying is a great way to prevent waste and is usually an option in agricultural areas.
Buy items made of refurbished parts or recycled products when possible. All it takes is a few questions to your vendor to see what they have available. Recycled content corrugated cardboard stands up against moisture and is another practical way to prevent waste.
Recycling
Recycling is, of course, a great way to reduce waste in any industry or home but sometimes we don’t realize how many things are recyclable. Paper and glass are the obvious materials but did you know that you can also recycle wood, metal, oil filters, automotive oil, and fiber barrels? It takes a little extra work but with good planning, you will have a system that is not only time-efficient but will make you feel good about your business.
The same way you have a system for paper, plastics, and glass is the same way you will handle these other items. If need be, delegate the task to an employee that is good with organization and can handle pick up times and the storage of the items before recycling them. Your local farmer will usually take all vegetative matter to use in their compost, helping the farmer and building solid relationships with other local business owners.
Reach Out To Your Community
Other effective ways to reduce waste is to involve your employees and the community. If you share your efforts with your neighbors it makes them feel valued and they will more than likely remember you if they need a product or service you offer. Suggestions and ideas not only come from these avenues but relationships are strengthened as well.
Your staff will probably be the first ones to speak up and share ideas about how to better dispose of any and all waste products. Always, always keep your employees up to speed on what is going on with your conservation efforts. Holding monthly or quarterly seminars or meetings about waste reduction is something you should implement as soon as you can get the ideas on paper.
Compost Materials
Your waste hauler can give you a lot of valuable information about composting and what materials can be collected to compost. If you are able to take advantage of on-site composting it is not only your most cost-effective way but it also saves time. You can compost all organic waste and use it in your landscaping.
If you take care of animals you can use their waste for your personal fertilizer and share with others as well. And if your animal waste production is pretty substantial you can sell it for profit to other farmers and local residents. You will earn extra income and cut your disposal cost all at the same time.
Contact Us For Packaging Supplies
Western Packaging has hundreds of options for your packing and storing needs. We can provide answers to your questions and solutions to your problems. Our team would love to hear from you today.
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