Using environmental regulations to your advantage

Waste management continues to become an increasing environmental and economic concern to some of the largest corporate entities.

What is even more interesting, however, is the way in which many companies are using innovative schemes to turn environmental regulations to their advantage.

The latest company to weave innovation into compliance is The Co-Operative Group, which has introduced lightweight compostable carrier bags into 399 of its stores. The stores cover 81 local authority areas with food recycling schemes which require households to use compostable bags for food waste. At a cost of 6p each, the bags are around half the price of food waste caddy liners sold on a roll.

In a regulatory sense, this will help The Co-Operative to meet targets set in 2006 to reduce carrier bag usage. From another perspective, the business case for such a decision includes customer loyalty, recognition and increased brand value, as well as appealing to a ‘green minded’ demographic.

The Co-Operative is not the only company to use the sustainability curve to its advantage. The John Lewis Partnership, owner of John Lewis and Waitrose, transforms its soft plastic packaging waste into benches which are stationed in its Waitrose stores. It is also looking at ways it can use its recycled plastic to create planks, boards and sheeting to build its shops.

Similarly, infrastructure services company FM Conway has turned 200,000 tonnes of recycled roads into new asphalt and other products. The firm has not only conserved natural resources and reduced its carbon footprint, but saved money on raw materials too.

It is clear that viewing compliance as an opportunity rather than an obligation could actually put businesses at a competitive advantage. In coming up with innovative ways to meet regulations, companies may find themselves reducing costs, boosting margins or tapping into new markets.

David Edwards is a member of Harrison Drury’s specialist Recycling and Waste Management Sector team. For more information please contact David on 01772 258321 or David.Edwards@harrison-drury.com