US packaging company achieves zero manufacturing waste to landfill status
US-based Diamond Packaging announced that it has achieved zero manufacturing waste to landfill status, an important milestone of its greenbox sustainability initiative.
Landfill waste is defined by Diamond Packaging as all waste related to the manufacture of folding cartons, including paperboard, plastic, metal, industrial waste, and regulated waste, with the exception of construction and demolition (CD) waste.
Diamond achieved its goal through strategic partnerships with Cascades Recovery, Covanta Sustainable Solutions Group, and Advanced Waste Solutions. A collaborative task force was created to audit manufacturing and recovery methods and seek positive end-of-life scenarios (solutions) for all waste streams.
"Zero manufacturing waste to landfill is an important goal and one that demonstrates our leadership in producing more sustainable packaging," said Karla Fichter, CEO and owner of Diamond Packaging.
To achieve zero manufacturing waste to landfill status, Diamond's two manufacturing facilities reduced their overall waste streams and increased recycling rates to approximately 98%. All remaining waste is sent for fuels blending or to Covanta Energy for Energy-from-Waste (EfW).
EfW facilities offer a safe and technologically advanced way to reuse waste material, stated Diamond Packaging. These alternative energy sources also reduce the need for fossil fuels.
"Diamond's employees should take great pride in achieving zero manufacturing waste to landfill," said Jim Hall, Vice President of Covanta Sustainable Solutions. "It's not an easy task and clearly demonstrates a strong and unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship."
