The businesses saved money by taking simple steps and have identified scope for saving a further £800,000. Bertand Faure, for example, found that, by using fabric more efficiently in the manufacture of seat covers it saved £110,000. Autotype International found ways of reducing water consumption by 43% and Esso Research Centre saved £30,000 by increasing its recycling of special waste from 186 tonnes a year to 216 tonnes a year.
Paul Taylor, Logistics Manager at Bertand Faure
Derek Vickers, Recycling Officer with the Vale of White Horse, said: “The results of the Waste Minimisation Project have been most impressive in terms of financial savings and efficient use of resources by the companies taking part. The Council now aims to take the lessons learnt here and share them with other large and small businesses throughout the district.”
Bob Jeffery, Team Leader Campaigns with the Environment Agency, commented: “To improve the environment the Agency recognises that it needs to work in partnership with businesses. If we can help them reduce waste generation by the control of material and energy resources then this is good for them, by saving money, and good for the environment, by reducing waste. We all benefit.”