Diamond Packaging has achieved zero manufacturing waste to landfill status, which it says is an important milestone toward meeting its future goal of zero waste to landfill. The recovery and recycling program is an evolution of the company’s greenbox sustainability initiative and one that Diamond says will provide long-term environmental and economic benefits.
 
The zero manufacturing waste to landfill initiative provides economic benefits through improved recovery and recycling rates for paperboard, plastic, and metals, and reduced overall disposal costs.
 
The core of the initiative – designs, materials, and methods – represents a comprehensive approach to packaging that minimizes environmental impact throughout the supply chain. Through creative design, careful material selection, and best practices at the plant level, Diamond is able to minimize waste, reduce shipping costs and increase efficiencies – all of which support a sustainable use of resources and cultivate a positive emotional connection to the brand.
 
Zero manufacturing waste to landfill is defined by Diamond Packaging as 100% landfill waste diversion through a combination of recycling and energy recovery solutions. In Diamond’s case it accounts for 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. “Our customers and their stakeholders alike recognize and value our shared commitment to a greener future.”
 
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, eliminating the need for landfill disposal. Energy-from-Waste (or waste-to-energy) facilities offer a safe, technologically advanced means of beneficially reusing Diamond Packaging waste material while also generating clean energy, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and supporting recycling through the recovery of metals. These alternative energy sources also reduce the need for fossil fuels.
 
More info: www.diamondpackaging.com