Packaging

1. A reduced packaging option

We are aware of the difficulties encountered when trying to dispose of the Polystyrene outer packaging. Despite being a recyclable material, there are currently only eight sites capable of doing this in the U.K and, if collected, to transport the waste material to any one of these sites would pose logistical problems. It is for this reason that a pilot scheme is being trialled in the North East of Scotland, with the avenues of re-using, returning and recycling the packaging being investigated. If this scheme is successful it may filter to the whole of the U.K.

Donald Russell introduced a 'reduced packaging' option in 2008 which has seen a 54% uptake resulting in a reduction of 76 tonnes of cardboard and 54 tonnes of plastic per year being used.

2. Inbound deliveries

Packaging from our inbound deliveries is recycled off site and our suppliers are encouraged to use returnable containers. So far 50% have adopted this approach.

3. Cardboard recycling

By daily segregation and compaction of waste cardboard, Donald Russell is able to recycle 320 tonnes of this material annually. This is supported by requesting our suppliers use returnable and reusable packaging instead of 'single use' cardboard boxes.

 

 

4. Dry ice

Dry ice has replaced gel ice in most of our deliveries and is made from recycled CO2.

 

 

 

Marketing & ordering online

1. Reduced mailing

Our mailing frequency is an area that we are evaluating with the intention to reduce the volume of printed materials posted. In conjunction with this proposal we are looking to use recycled paper for our catalogues and other printed materials.

2. Paperless catalogues

Download our catalogue; your contribution will have a positive effect on the environment.

 

3. Order online

To go along with our focus to decrease the 'paper' mail that is sent, we would like to encourage on-line ordering as this is far more environmentally friendly. Shop online today >>

Environmental Policy

1. Bike to work

Donald Russell has adopted a bike to work scheme as a company-wide environmental policy and the nomination of Milan as green champion means an ongoing commitment to environmental issue awareness and change.

2. Waste management

By compacting 50% of our general waste it reduces the volume of transport needed for its disposal. The majority of our office paperwork is shredded and recycled on a weekly basis.

3. Operations

We have seen the installation of state of the art refrigeration/compressor units and by using High Pressure Low Volume (HPLV) spray guns for cleaning, we are using the most water efficient washing methods currently available.

How you can help

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We would love it if you would share any tips, suggestions or feedback you may have, so feel free to drop me an e-mail with your input greenchampion@donaldrussell.co.uk.