Weir & Carmichael helps clients reduce their carbon footprint with reusable protective packaging

Nov. 15, 2011 - PRLog -- Leading packaging solutions firm Weir & Carmichael has undertaken a sample carbon footprint assessment of its Britwrap product in order to demonstrate the environmental benefits they can provide for retailers and other companies using them.

The test case considered the manufacture and transport of the popular reusable transit covers, from the point of production through to its manufacture and storage (prior to distribution) in the UK.

According to the findings, the Britwrap worktop and mattress covers have the ability to make a significant impact on the environmental burden of companies using them. Based on an equation determined by the North West Eco Innovation Programme, which factors in the number of trips made by the reusable packaging, the covers will mean "15 times less burden on the environment than the alternative use of polyethylene/cardboard".

A spokesperson for Weir and Carmichael said: "This is a significant development for the business. The previous solution, which used cardboard to protect the product over a single journey, required the customer to recycle the packaging, which, for items such as worktops, is typically too large for doorstep recycling boxes and bins. At 15 times more environmentally friendly, the Britwrap products will have a huge impact on our clients' carbon footprint."

The reusable Britwrap covers are specialist protective coverings that are designed to eliminate the need for disposable transit packaging, whilst providing additional protection for products during shipment.

Commenting on the reason to develop the protective packaging, the Weir & Carmichael spokesperson said: "As large items, worktop and mattress covers have had a big role to play in the carbon footprint of retailers and deliver firms. We wanted something that would significantly lower this, but without compromising the level of protection the products had during transit. Britwrap has achieved these targets, as well as reduced costs, improved handling time, minimised risks of personal injury, and protected the products from the cold and wet."

One of the most pleasing aspects of the Britwrap protective packaging is their positive impact on the customer experience. It has helped to reduce, or in many cases, eliminate the amount of packaging left behind following a product's delivery. The new packaging has also reduced the risk of damage and ensured products arrive looking presentable.

"We're passionate about packaging and we're passionate about doing our bit for the environment," the spokesperson added. "The findings of this report have fully justified our decision to invest in reusable protective packaging."

For more information about protective packaging, visit http://www.weirbags.co.uk/britwrap/0/0/ or call 0151 934 1250.

# # #

Weir & Carmichael offer a range of flexible packaging solutions and have been supplying industry throughout the UK for over 50 years with sacks and bags. We have an excellent reputation for quality and service and are ISO9001 & ISO14001 accredited.

We offer a complementary range of containers and bags that are specifically designed for recycling and waste management, ranging from industrial waste to household and food waste. Our extensive product range includes 2 and 4 wheel bins, kerbside boxes, kitchen caddies, composters and recycling bags. All products can be specified to customer's requirements and can be printed with local authority logos and instructions for residents.