Green Sustainability Supports the 3rd World Congress on Recycling & Waste Management

Green Sustainability is proud to serve as an official media partner for the upcoming 3rd World Congress on Recycling & Waste Management, taking place in 2026 in Singapore.

Organised by Inovine Meetings, this globally recognised event brings together academic researchers, industry leaders, and sustainability advocates to exchange insights and advancements in recycling, circular economy practices, and sustainable waste management solutions. Attendees will benefit from keynote presentations, expert panels, and networking opportunities that span disciplines and geographies.

To learn more about the event or to register as a participant or sponsor, please visit the official conference website:
🔗 https://recyclingconference.org

We look forward to continuing to highlight initiatives that drive environmental innovation and support a more circular, sustainable future.

Green Sustainability Supports The Rivers Trust’s “Making Space for Water” Campaign

At Green Sustainability, we are proud to support The Rivers Trust and its coalition partners as they launch the Making Space for Water campaign—an urgent call to action aimed at revitalising the UK’s river ecosystems.

Our rivers are under increasing pressure—pollution, overdevelopment, and neglect have left many watercourses degraded and disconnected from their natural landscapes. The Making Space for Water campaign advocates for accessible, government-backed funding to empower farmers and landowners to restore and protect river corridors. This includes the implementation of nature-based solutions such as river buffers, wetlands, riparian woodlands, and floodplain meadows.

These interventions do more than just beautify landscapes—they play a crucial role in enhancing biodiversity, mitigating flood and drought risks, filtering pollution, and improving the overall health of our freshwater systems. By giving rivers the space they need to recover, we can strengthen communities’ resilience to climate change while creating thriving habitats for wildlife.

Led by The Rivers Trust in collaboration with the National Trust, The Woodland Trust, and Beaver Trust, this campaign is a collective effort to reshape the future of the UK’s waterways. It highlights the indispensable role of landowners and farmers in driving this transformation and calls on the UK Government to make funding pathways straightforward and widely accessible.

We encourage our readers and stakeholders to show their support by signing the public petition at makingspaceforwater.com or directly via the UK Parliament petition page.

Together, we can help create a connected, nature-rich network of river corridors that benefits people, wildlife, and the planet.

#SpaceForWater
www.makingspaceforwater.com

Charting the Course to Net Zero: Inside the Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping

As the global economy races to meet net-zero targets, few sectors face greater challenges — or opportunities — than maritime shipping. Traditionally dependent on fossil fuels and fragmented competition, the industry is now at a turning point. At the helm of its transformation stands the Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping: a neutral, not-for-profit R&D hub driving an unprecedented level of collaboration across global shipping stakeholders.

Based in Copenhagen, the Center brings together shipping companies, energy majors, ports, regulators, and technology innovators to develop scalable, zero-emission solutions for one of the world’s most carbon-intensive sectors. As Tanja Ebbe Dalgaard, Chief Strategy & Operations Officer, explains, “No one can decarbonize shipping alone. Our model creates a safe space for competitors to collaborate — and share real-world data — to accelerate solutions.”

The Center’s work includes:

🚢 Green Corridors – Testbeds for large-scale decarbonization along strategic trade routes using alternative fuels and new operational models.

⚡ Katalist – A cutting-edge book-and-claim platform allowing cargo owners to purchase verified low-emission shipping claims, spurring early demand for alternative fuels like biofuels and e-fuels.

📊 Techno-Economic Modelling – Using shared industry data to guide investment, regulation, and fuel readiness strategies across a multi-fuel future including ammonia, methanol, hydrogen, and biofuels.

🤝 Global Policy Engagement – Partnering with bodies like the IMO and EU to shape fair, effective emissions regulation and ensure developing nations are included in the transition.

What makes the Center unique isn’t just its cutting-edge projects, but its open-access, collaborative approach. With over 100 partner organizations — and growing — the Center is helping shape a future where zero-carbon shipping is not just possible, but commercially viable.

🌍 “We’re no longer debating whether decarbonization will happen,” says Dalgaard. “The question now is: how fast can we make it a global reality?”

🔋 Discover how Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping is turning climate ambition into maritime action — and why its work matters to every supply chain on earth.

👉 Read the full article at: https://www.greensustainability.world/magazine

Hunt’s Food Group: Redefining Food Distribution Through Sustainability

In today’s fast-evolving food industry, Hunt’s Food Group is proving that ethical sourcing and environmental responsibility aren’t just buzzwords — they’re the foundation of a thriving, future-ready business.

Led by CEO Thomas Hunt, this fifth-generation, family-owned company has transformed from its roots as a dairy farm in 1912 into one of the UK’s leading full-service food distributors. With over 10,000 product lines across chilled, frozen, ambient, fresh, alcohol, and non-food categories, Hunt’s is a trusted partner across the retail, hospitality, healthcare, and education sectors.

But what truly sets Hunt’s Food Group apart is its bold, authentic commitment to sustainability — a vision that has earned the company B Corp certification, setting a high bar for social and environmental performance across the industry.

🌱 From solar panels powering warehouses and refrigerated vehicles to advanced route optimisation technology reducing emissions across a 140-vehicle fleet, Hunt’s is actively reshaping the logistics and operations landscape.

🍽️ Tackling food waste, the company partners with charities, food banks, and internal canteens to redistribute short-dated products — ensuring surplus food nourishes people, not landfills.

📦 In procurement, Hunt’s is raising the bar on supply chain transparency, prioritising compostable packaging, minimising black plastic, and working only with suppliers that uphold ethical, low-carbon practices.

What’s more, sustainability runs through Hunt’s corporate culture. Staff participate in tree planting and conservation days, and warehouse teams enjoy free hot meals sourced from surplus stock — a perfect example of how environmental and employee well-being go hand-in-hand.

As the business looks ahead, plans include expanding solar capacity, investing in green technologies, and deepening collaboration with sustainability-minded partners. “Sustainability isn’t just our responsibility — it’s our growth strategy,” says Thomas Hunt.

🌍 Want to see how a legacy brand is using renewable energy, food redistribution, and supply chain innovation to lead the food distribution sector into a greener future?

🚛 Explore the full story behind Hunt’s Food Group’s impressive sustainability journey.

👉 Read the full article at: https://www.greensustainability.world/magazine

Vermeer UK & Ireland: Quietly Powering Infrastructure with Purpose and Precision

While many infrastructure providers operate with noise and flash, Vermeer UK & Ireland is building a reputation for something far more impactful: quiet, precise, and sustainable engineering excellence. From rural fibre rollouts to large-scale recycling and biomass projects, Vermeer is enabling the next generation of infrastructure—responsibly and efficiently.

As one of the few wholly owned subsidiaries of the global Vermeer Corporation, the UK team has taken a bold, service-led approach to growth. In fact, under the leadership of General Manager Warren Steele, the company has doubled its turnover in 2024 alone—thanks to a strategy that puts people, principles, and product quality before profit.

With a product portfolio spanning horizontal directional drilling (HDD) for trenchless utility installations, high-output forestry and recycling equipment, and tree care and landscaping solutions, Vermeer UK is helping clients across the British Isles build infrastructure with minimal environmental disruption.

🔧 But this isn’t just about machines. It’s about partnership-driven service. With engineers stationed across the UK and Ireland, Vermeer offers far more than aftersales support—it delivers long-term collaboration. “The sales team sells the first machine,” says Steele. “The service team sells the next three.”

The company is also investing heavily in sustainability, from electrified product development like the D120E drill to transitioning its vehicle fleet to electric, installing EV chargers, and partnering with responsible waste contractors. Vermeer’s entire operational model is shifting toward low-carbon, zero-emission solutions.

And it’s not just about technology. Vermeer UK’s bespoke engineering approach ensures that every machine is tailored to the job—factoring in ground conditions, energy use, application requirements, and long-term ROI. That kind of customisation is rare, and it's what enables clients to reduce downtime, lower operational costs, and meet their own environmental targets.

🌍 Ready to see how a family-owned global giant is reshaping infrastructure across the UK and Ireland—quietly, sustainably, and with unmatched precision?

🚀 Discover the full story behind Vermeer UK’s impressive growth and industry impact.

👉 Read the full article at: https://www.greensustainability.world/magazine

RJ Power: Engineering a Greener Energy Future Through Innovation

As the UK’s energy sector accelerates its transition to net zero, RJ Power is leading the charge with forward-thinking electrical infrastructure solutions designed for a more sustainable tomorrow.

With decades of expertise in high-voltage systems, transformer upgrades, and modern grid integration, RJ Power is reimagining the foundations of our energy networks. But what truly sets this specialist electrical contractor apart is its unwavering commitment to sustainability — from the sourcing of materials to the way every project is planned, delivered, and maintained.

💡 “Sustainability is embedded in every layer of our operations,” says David Pierce, National Sales Director at RJ Power.

This includes implementing low-carbon technologies, recycling high-performance materials, integrating AI-powered monitoring, and adopting battery-powered tools and vehicles in place of diesel alternatives. Whether retrofitting transformers to extend their life cycles or deploying predictive maintenance systems to improve energy efficiency, RJ Power is actively helping customers reduce emissions and waste.

Their sustainability model doesn’t stop at the project level. RJ Power’s supply chain strategy focuses on ethical sourcing, local partnerships, and reduced logistics emissions, while its nationwide footprint — from London to York and a new Midlands hub — enables local workforce deployment and reduced travel impact.

The company’s proactive approach also supports broader renewable energy integration. From wind and solar infrastructure projects to large-scale battery storage systems, RJ Power is enabling the clean energy solutions the UK needs to meet its 2050 climate targets.

⚡ Looking for insight into how energy infrastructure can be modernised for both performance and planet?

🌱 Discover how RJ Power is building sustainability into the very backbone of our power systems.

👉 Read the full article at: https://www.greensustainability.world/magazine

The Wellbeing Farm: Where Sustainability Meets Celebration

The Wellbeing Farm: Where Sustainability Meets Celebration

Nestled in the Lancashire countryside, The Wellbeing Farm isn’t your typical event venue. With wind turbines, repurposed décor, and bowtie-wearing llamas, this award-winning business is redefining what it means to host events in a sustainable and socially responsible way.

Founded by Celia Gaze, a former NHS director turned purpose-driven entrepreneur, The Wellbeing Farm is one of the UK’s first independent wedding venues to achieve B-Corp certification. But beyond the accolades lies a deeper mission — to demonstrate that business can be a powerful force for good.

From its off-grid energy solutions to its ethical supply chain partnerships, the farm integrates sustainability into every aspect of its operations. A standout initiative is the farm’s ‘prop shed’, which offers past wedding décor for reuse by future clients — an innovative circular economy model that reduces waste and adds unique charm to every celebration.

The venue’s furnishings — sourced from reclaimed materials and second-hand suppliers — complement its green ethos, while its wind turbine now powers the entire site, showcasing a bold commitment to renewable energy.

But The Wellbeing Farm is more than a beautiful place to tie the knot or host a retreat. It’s the heart of a broader movement. Through initiatives like B-Corp Fest and the soon-to-launch Conscious Day, Celia Gaze is amplifying the farm’s impact, inspiring businesses worldwide to embrace sustainability and rethink success beyond the bottom line.

The farm’s supplier relationships are just as intentional. From sustainable wines to locally sourced meats, every partner is selected with ethical practices in mind — strengthening both the local economy and the planet.

🌿 Want to learn how a small farm is setting global standards in sustainability, innovation, and social impact?

✨ Explore the full story behind The Wellbeing Farm’s remarkable journey — and discover why it’s much more than just a venue.

👉 Read the full article at: https://www.greensustainability.world/magazine

Blooming Color: Leading the Print Revolution Through Innovation and Sustainability

In an era when sustainability is no longer optional but essential, Blooming Color is setting a new benchmark for the commercial printing industry. This pioneering company, located just outside Chicago, is rewriting the rules of print with its digital-first, eco-conscious approach — a model that merges operational excellence with environmental responsibility.

Founded in 1988 and transformed through bold leadership decisions, Blooming Color has emerged as one of the foremost innovators in digital print production. By fully embracing HP Indigo technology and phasing out traditional offset printing, the company has positioned itself as a future-ready print partner for brands across the U.S.

What truly sets Blooming Color apart is its commitment to sustainable production. From leveraging on-demand print models that reduce waste to implementing robust recycling programs — including high-density polyethylene (HDPE) recycling — Blooming Color’s practices go far beyond the industry standard. Their Midwest location further enhances their eco-footprint by enabling fast, efficient, and low-emission shipping across the country.

President Rosemarie Breske Garvey explains the vision clearly: “We print only what is needed, when it is needed — no more, no less.” It’s a simple yet powerful mantra that reflects the company’s customer-first and planet-first philosophy.

Additionally, Blooming Color is taking sustainability a step further through upcoming investments in renewable energy credits via a local solar farm, upgrading to energy-efficient lighting, and collaborating with environmentally responsible paper suppliers.

With advanced automation, integrated e-commerce APIs, and subtle but impactful use of AI-driven tools, Blooming Color isn’t just meeting current demand — it's anticipating the needs of tomorrow.

💡 Looking for inspiration on how sustainability and technology can revolutionize an entire industry?

🌿 Discover how Blooming Color is printing a smarter, greener future.

👉 Read the full article now at: https://www.greensustainability.world/magazine

How Go Digital Helped Us Shape a Smarter Future at Green Sustainability

Starting a new business is exciting—and challenging. As a B2B publication focused on sustainability, Green Sustainability was full of ambition but lacked a defined digital strategy.

That changed with the support of the Go Digital programme, powered by Norfolk County Council and delivered in partnership with the New Anglia Growth Hub.

Through the programme, we had the pleasure of working with Andy Skinner of AMS Business Consultants Limited, who conducted a full digital audit of our business.

We were also introduced to invaluable resources through the Go Digital and connected with support from Jo Barnard at the New Anglia Growth Hub.

The process was not only educational but empowering. We're already making improvements and laying the foundations for long-term growth, thanks to the expert guidance we received.

If you’re a Norfolk-based business looking to strengthen your digital capabilities, we highly recommend checking out the Go Digital funding programme.

Driving Sustainability: Volvo Trucks’ Green Future

Volvo article front cover

Driving Sustainability: Volvo Trucks’ Green Future

Volvo Trucks is leading the way in sustainable transport, setting ambitious targets to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040. Through a mix of innovative technologies and eco-friendly practices, Volvo is transforming global logistics for a greener future. Lars Mårtensson, Director of Environment and Innovation at Volvo Trucks, discusses how the company’s sustainability efforts are shaping the future of transportation.

Electrifying Urban Transport

Volvo Trucks’ battery-electric vehicles (EVs) are already revolutionizing urban logistics in cities like Stockholm and Amsterdam. These electric trucks produce zero emissions and help reduce noise pollution, providing an ideal solution for cleaner, more sustainable urban transport. Volvo is also working to expand charging infrastructure in collaboration with energy providers and local governments to ensure smooth adoption.

Hydrogen: The Future of Long-Haul Transport

While electric trucks excel in urban settings, Volvo Trucks is turning to hydrogen-powered vehicles for long-haul transport. Hydrogen offers greater range and faster refuelling times, making it ideal for heavy-duty and long-distance transport. Volvo is developing fuel cell and hydrogen combustion technologies, with plans to launch these trucks by the end of the decade.

Green Steel: Sustainable Manufacturing

In a bid to reduce its carbon footprint, Volvo Trucks is integrating green steel into its production process. This sustainable material, produced using renewable energy, is now part of the company’s truck frames, setting a new standard for green manufacturing in the automotive sector.

Biogas: Turning Waste into Energy

Volvo Trucks is also leveraging biogas-powered trucks, which convert organic waste into energy. This alternative fuel can reduce carbon emissions by up to 300%, helping Volvo lead the way in the circular economy. Biogas is especially effective in regions rich in agricultural byproducts, aligning with Volvo’s commitment to sustainable and clean energy solutions.

Circular Economy: Extending the Lifecycle

Volvo Trucks is adopting circular economy principles by designing products for longevity and reuse. Used truck batteries are repurposed for energy storage systems, reducing the need for virgin materials and minimizing waste. This approach helps Volvo reduce its environmental impact and make the most of existing resources.

A Global Commitment to Sustainability

With manufacturing plants in Sweden and Belgium, Volvo Trucks is optimizing its production processes by using renewable energy sources. The company is also constructing a battery production facility in Sweden to further enhance its sustainability credentials. Volvo adapts its approach to meet regional needs, such as introducing biogas-powered trucks in the UK to meet local demands.

Collaboration for a Greener Industry

Volvo Trucks understands that achieving net-zero emissions requires collaboration. By working with suppliers, governments, and energy providers, Volvo is building a network of partnerships that drive innovation and sustainable solutions in transport.

For more details on Volvo Trucks' commitment to sustainability and the future of green transport, read the full article at Green Sustainability Magazine.

Building a Greener Tomorrow: Eurowind’s Commitment to Sustainable Energy

Eurowind front cover

Eurowind Energy has quickly become a key player in the renewable energy sector, expanding its footprint across Europe. Pedro Pereira, Managing Director for Southern Europe, shared insights into the company’s ongoing initiatives, challenges, and its strategic approach to sustainability.

Expanding Horizons in Southern Europe

When Pedro Pereira joined Eurowind, his mission was clear: to grow the company’s presence in Southern Europe. “We were predominantly focused on Northern Europe,” Pereira explained. “Expanding into Portugal, Spain, and Italy ensured greater geographic resilience.” Portugal has become a key hub for the company, with Eurowind making significant strides in green hydrogen projects, seen as the future of clean energy.

Navigating the Green Hydrogen Challenge

Despite its promise, green hydrogen faces hurdles in market adoption. Pereira noted, “It’s a classic chicken-and-egg scenario—no supply because there’s no demand, and no demand because there’s no supply.” He pointed out that while the cost of green hydrogen is currently high, policy support and collaboration across the industry are essential for bridging this gap and enabling its widespread use.

Leveraging Local Expertise

Eurowind’s success in Southern Europe can be attributed to its approach of partnering with local contractors. Pereira emphasized the importance of “prioritising local knowledge for civil works and crane operations,” which helps ensure efficiency and strengthens community ties. This localised approach is critical for navigating the region’s regulatory frameworks.

Innovations Beyond Wind and Solar

While wind and solar are central to Eurowind’s portfolio, the company is increasingly diversifying its energy offerings. Pereira highlighted their expansion into biogas, which provides a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels by converting organic waste into renewable energy. Additionally, the company is exploring advanced chemical processes for energy storage, such as ammonia and e-methanol, which could help address intermittency issues in renewable energy.

A Vision for 2030

Aligned with the EU’s climate goals, Eurowind’s long-term strategy focuses on expanding its renewable energy capacity by 2030. “Our goal is to become a power major, leveraging diverse energy sources to drive the transition to a low-carbon future,” Pereira said. To support this, the company is incorporating digital tools like AI and IoT to optimise energy efficiency and monitor operations in real time.

The Path Forward

Pereira remains optimistic about the future of renewable energy. “Renewables were once more expensive than traditional energy sources. Today, they are the cheapest,” he observed. As Eurowind continues its journey, the company is well-positioned to lead the energy transition in Southern Europe and beyond. By embracing innovation and fostering local partnerships, Eurowind is shaping the future of sustainable energy.

To read the full article, visit Green Sustainability Magazine.

ACME Engineering Products: Innovating Tradition for a Sustainable Future

ACME Engineering front cover

ACME Engineering Products: Innovating Tradition for a Sustainable Future

ACME Engineering Products has been a cornerstone of industrial innovation for decades. Led by CEO Robert Presser, this family-run company has successfully navigated the changing landscape of the engineering industry. Starting as an importer of European plumbing equipment, ACME has evolved into a global leader in HVAC controls, packaged boilers, and, most notably, commercial gas detection systems. Through a unique blend of legacy and forward-thinking innovation, ACME continues to shape the future of sustainable technology.

The Green Revolution and ACME’s Role in Decarbonization

A major turning point for ACME has been the rise of electrode boiler technology. Once seen as a niche industrial product, electrode boilers are now central to global decarbonization efforts. With increasing pressure for industries to reduce their carbon footprints, electric boilers have become the go-to solution for clean energy. As Presser explains, “Electric boilers, whether low voltage or high voltage, have transformed from industrial equipment to environmental solutions. Now, everyone wants clean emissions—no more smoke from the stacks.”

The demand for electric-powered boilers soared, especially in China, where aggressive decarbonization policies prompted a shift towards sustainable solutions. “China’s demand for electric-powered boilers gave us a significant boost,” Presser reflects. ACME’s successful entry into the Chinese market laid the foundation for the company’s expansion into Europe, North America, South America, and the Middle East.

Decarbonizing Energy Giants

Even in oil-rich regions like the Middle East, the shift towards sustainability is evident. At the ADIPEC show in Abu Dhabi, Presser observed a growing focus on decarbonization, with oil and gas giants like ADNOC exploring the incorporation of renewable energy. This shift presents new opportunities for ACME, as the company continues to collaborate with stakeholders across the globe to advance sustainable energy solutions.

Strategic Partnerships: ACME’s Key to Global Reach

ACME's success is built on its strategic partnerships, which allow the company to scale operations while staying agile in a competitive market. “The first-generation entrepreneur wants to do everything, but that’s how you stay small,” says Presser. Instead, ACME has cultivated relationships with global partners, ensuring the ability to meet local market needs efficiently.

The company has formed key alliances in Finland, Spain, Portugal, the U.S., and South America. In Finland, ACME partners with CTI, a systems integrator, and collaborates with ARSOPI in Portugal to deliver complete boiler plant systems. Presser’s approach to manufacturing also includes a planned facility in the UAE by 2025, which will further diversify ACME’s global supply chain and mitigate geopolitical risks.

Educating the Market on Sustainable Solutions

A significant part of ACME’s mission involves educating engineers and specifiers about the capabilities of electrode boilers. “Many professionals tasked with decarbonization projects are unfamiliar with our technology,” Presser notes. The company has dedicated significant time and resources to guiding consulting engineers through the process, ensuring that stakeholders are equipped with the technical expertise and strategic insights needed to implement these solutions effectively.

Overcoming Challenges and Seizing Opportunities

While ACME’s journey has been filled with success, it has also faced its share of challenges. The 2008 financial crisis, for example, forced the company to diversify and shift its focus away from a U.S.-centric model. Today, ACME has built sustainable relationships with global partners, allowing it to weather economic downturns and geopolitical risks. As Presser advises, “You have to be agile. When disruptions occur, whether it's tariffs or supply chain issues, you need a plan B—and sometimes even a plan C.”

A Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, ACME remains committed to innovation. The company continuously refines its electrode boiler technology to meet the evolving demands of decarbonization. By combining a rich heritage with cutting-edge solutions, ACME Engineering Products continues to create partnerships that benefit both its clients and the environment. As Robert Presser concludes, “We’re not just offering products; we’re creating solutions and building partnerships that allow everyone to win.”

For more details on ACME Engineering Products’ innovation and sustainable solutions, read the full article at Green Sustainability Magazine.

Learn more about ACME Engineering Products and their sustainable solutions at www.acmeprod.com.

Great Central Plastics: Leading the Charge in Sustainable UK Manufacturing

In today’s world, where sustainability is a key focus for businesses and consumers alike, Great Central Plastics stands out as a leader in sustainable manufacturing. This UK-based, family-owned company has redefined how plastics can be produced responsibly, offering sustainable solutions to industries ranging from automotive to beverages. With a focus on innovation, the company is proving that environmental responsibility and cutting-edge technology can go hand in hand.

From Vision to Industry Leadership

Great Central Plastics began with a bold vision and the expertise of its founders, including a skilled toolmaker. This strong technical foundation has allowed the company to excel in injection moulding, supplying both moulds and finished products with exceptional precision. Over time, it has transformed into a leader in sustainable practices under the leadership of Kiron Phillips, a business development executive passionate about sustainability.

“We aim to be the go-to sustainable UK moulder,” says Phillips, emphasizing the company’s commitment to not only manufacturing excellence but also collaboration across the supply chain to drive sustainable change.

Innovation in Sustainable Materials

A hallmark of Great Central Plastics’ success is its pioneering work with biodegradable materials and alternative plastics. A notable example is their partnership with Jägermeister, which led to the creation of the first branded “Jägerbomber” shot vessels made from biodegradable plastic. This material is designed to break down quickly in landfills or oceans, making it an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional plastics.

“Our initial scepticism about the claims of these materials was dispelled when they stood up to rigorous testing and proved their efficacy,” Phillips explains.

The company also collaborated with Campari Group to create premium drinkware using Limex, a limestone-based material made from cement industry waste. By combining biodegradable elements with functional materials, Great Central Plastics is pushing the boundaries of sustainable product design.

Collaboration at the Core of Sustainability

Great Central Plastics thrives on collaboration, working with suppliers, clients, and even competitors to advance sustainability. Its regrind facility is a prime example of how the company integrates eco-friendly practices into its operations. By recycling waste materials like sprues into reusable plastic, the company ensures a near-closed-loop production process, reducing waste and enhancing its sustainability credentials.

“The more we collaborate, the better it is for everyone in the industry,” Phillips says. “We are all in this together, and it’s about sharing expertise to make sustainable innovations a reality.”

Changing the Public Perception of Plastics

Historically, plastics have been viewed as detrimental to the environment, but Great Central Plastics is helping to shift this narrative. The company focuses on the longevity and reusability of its products, showcasing how bioplastics and other sustainable alternatives can provide long-lasting, high-performance solutions without harming the environment.

Great Central Plastics has embraced materials such as recycled chewing gum and ghost fishing gear, demonstrating how waste can be turned into valuable products. This approach not only reduces landfill waste but also offers eco-conscious consumers a range of practical, sustainable options.

Expanding into New Industries

While Great Central Plastics has long had a strong presence in the automotive and beverage industries, its expertise in sustainable materials is now opening doors to new sectors like electronics and medical devices. The limestone-based material, initially used for drinkware, is being explored for use in car interiors, offering a premium look with strong environmental credentials.

“There’s a lot of crossover between industries when sustainability is a driving force,” Phillips notes, highlighting the adaptability of their innovations.

A Solar-Powered Future

In addition to its sustainable material practices, Great Central Plastics is committed to reducing its carbon footprint. The company’s factory is powered by solar energy, providing 30% of its electricity needs. This long-term commitment to renewable energy is just one of the ways the company strives to lead by example in the manufacturing industry.

The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities

Despite the company’s significant achievements, it acknowledges that challenges remain in driving sustainability within the manufacturing sector. High costs for testing and certification, especially for automotive applications, can pose a barrier for smaller companies. However, Phillips remains hopeful about the future: “Sustainability is an area where opportunities continue to grow. We are determined to stay ahead of the curve and continue our work in this space.”

Looking to the Future

As Great Central Plastics continues to innovate, its future is bright. The company is investing in new technologies, including a CNC machine, which will expand its toolmaking capabilities. It also plans to host open days to showcase its cutting-edge work and share its sustainability journey with clients and the public.

Great Central Plastics is setting the standard for how manufacturers can lead with purpose, combining technological expertise with a commitment to the environment. By staying ahead of trends and embracing sustainable solutions, the company is not only meeting today’s demands but also helping shape a greener future for generations to come.

For more on Great Central Plastics’ journey and their impact on sustainable manufacturing, check out the full feature in our latest issue here.

You can learn more about Great Central Plastics by visiting their website: www.greatcentralplastics.com

Canongate Books: Pioneering Sustainability in Publishing

Canongate front cover

Canongate Books, a renowned independent publisher in the UK, has become a trailblazer in sustainability within the publishing industry. Under the leadership of Caroline Gorham, the company made history as the first trade publisher in the UK to earn B Corporation (B Corp) certification. This certification underscores Canongate's unwavering commitment to environmental and social responsibility, setting a new standard for the publishing sector.

A Commitment to Sustainable Publishing

Caroline Gorham, Production Director at Canongate, highlights that achieving B Corp certification was not just about meeting industry standards—it was about embedding sustainability into every part of the company’s operations. This rigorous certification process, which took more than two years to complete, required changes across five key areas: governance, workers, community, environment, and customers. By formalising their commitment to sustainability, Canongate is leading the charge for positive change in publishing.

Building a Sustainable Supply Chain

Canongate’s commitment to sustainability extends to its entire supply chain. The company works closely with sustainable printers and suppliers who share its eco-conscious values. For instance, Canongate partners with CPI Print, who are revolutionising the printing process with innovations like carbon calculators and chemical-free printing. The company also prioritises local sourcing, reducing the carbon footprint of transporting materials.

In response to new EU regulations, Canongate is working to ensure that all its products meet stringent environmental standards, from anti-deforestation regulations to the General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR), further strengthening its commitment to sustainable practices.

Making a Lasting Impact

Beyond its operational changes, Canongate Books is actively involved in community engagement. They support local charities like Social Bite, which empowers homeless individuals, and donate books to organisations like the Scottish Book Trust. This community engagement is an essential part of their sustainability strategy, fostering a company-wide culture of responsibility and accountability.

The publisher’s sustainability efforts also include a focus on recyclability. By prioritising recyclable materials and collaborating with other industry leaders, Canongate is making strides toward reducing waste in the publishing process.

Looking to the Future

As Canongate continues to innovate and lead in sustainability, the company is also investing in the future. From adapting to EU digital standards for e-books and audiobooks to exploring ways to make their products more sustainable, Canongate is setting an example of how an industry can evolve in an environmentally responsible way.

For more details on Canongate Books’ journey to sustainability, and how they are transforming the publishing industry, read the full feature in our latest magazine.