Kautex waste reduction case study

Automotive parts supplier Kautex Textron has achieved significant cost savings per month by improving processes to reuse and recycle more of its waste, with help from sustainable business experts Envirowise.


Kautex is an industry leader in the development and manufacture of injection-moulded and blow-moulded plastic products.

As Kautex adheres to ISO 14001, the Hengoed site’s management team recognised that the company has a responsibility to reduce its impact on the environment and has actively sought to reduce waste.

Environment, Health & Safety Manager Steve Brown, explains: “In recent years we have done lots to ensure we segregate and recycle materials, but realised there was further scope to cut the amount of general waste we were sending to landfill.

“We approached Envirowise for assistance because we’d contacted them previously for general information on waste regulation and thought they could help in identifying effective measures to tackle this issue.”

An Envirowise consultant conducted a comprehensive audit of the site’s waste and recycling processes, before producing a report outlining simple, effective measures which could be implemented at little or no cost.

Steve continues: “Envirowise suggested we eliminate the use of open-top skips to encourage staff to segregate waste properly. We’ve also improved the efficiency of our waste compactor, as this was often collected several days before it was full, leading staff to put more materials into the general waste stream; in 2008 it held around three tonnes of waste per collection, whereas now it’s over five tonnes.”

Kautex also worked with Envirowise to source a company to collect cardboard and plastic on a fortnightly basis, generating around £10 of revenue per tonne of material.

“These measures have not only helped us to increase the amount of materials we recycle, but they have also generated significant financial benefits. Our waste costs have been cut by around £1,500 per month through reduced landfill charges and lower transportation costs, as our compacted waste can now be collected less frequently.”

Envirowise Regional Manager Helen Grey adds: “Kautex’s changes show there is enormous scope for companies to recycle and reuse more of their waste through implementing minor changes – which can lead to cost savings and reducing their environmental impact.”

Businesses in Wales with over 50 employees, who send over 50 tonnes of waste to landfill, are amongst those who can get tailored support from Envirowise to improve their resource efficiency. This free, confidential service is available from a network of regional managers and includes site visits, specialist consultancy and help developing action plans and monitoring progress.

To find out how your business could benefit please visit www.envirowisewales.org.uk or email wales@envirowise.gov.uk

Action inspires action. Stay ahead of the curve with sustainability and energy newsletters from edie

Subscribe