Posted 26 Jul by

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, sustainability has become a crucial aspect of operations for businesses in all industries.

Pallet wrapping, a fundamental process in the supply chain, offers immense potential for enhancing sustainability efforts.

In this piece, we’re going to talk about innovative strategies and considerations that can transform pallet wrapping into a greener, more efficient, and sustainable practice.

Sustainable Practices

Eco-Friendly Stretch Films

The use of eco-friendly stretch films made from recyclable or biodegradable materials has gained significant traction in recent years. These films, often derived from renewable sources such as plant-based materials or post-consumer recycled plastics, offer a sustainable alternative to traditional films.

Benefits of eco-friendly stretch films include:

  • Reduced environmental impact: By using materials that are derived from renewable sources or recycled materials, the carbon footprint of pallet wrapping is significantly reduced.
  • Enhanced recyclability: Eco-friendly stretch films promote the recyclability of packaging materials, contributing to a circular economy.
  • Comparable performance: Eco-friendly stretch films provide similar load stability and protection as traditional films, debunking the misconception that sustainability compromises performance.

Reducing Film Waste with Smart Techniques

Waste reduction is a critical aspect of sustainable pallet wrapping.

Implementing smart techniques can minimise film waste and improve overall efficiency.

Consider the following to improve your sustainable pallet wrapping techniques:

  • Pre-stretching: Maximise film usage and minimise waste through pre-stretching mechanisms, which stretch the film before applying it to the load.
  • Optimal load containment: Achieve optimal load containment by using proper tensioning and containment force, reducing film consumption while ensuring load stability.
  • Thin film technologies: Explore the use of thin film technologies that strike a balance between material usage and load protection, minimising waste generation.

Powering Sustainable Wrapping

Another way you can improve the eco-friendliness of your business and pallet wrapping practices is by ensuring the energy used to power your operations is controlled. Here are some of the things you can do:

  • Taming the tension: Adjust film tension settings to optimise energy consumption, finding the right balance between load security and energy efficiency. The right settings means you don’t have to overwork or overuse your pallet wrapping machinery.
  • Energy-efficient motors: Utilise energy-efficient motors and smart motor control techniques to minimise energy consumption during wrapping operations.
  • Embracing automation: Adopt automated wrapping systems to streamline processes, reduce the need for manual intervention, and optimise energy usage.

Find Recycling Programs

Recycling softer plastics isn’t as straightforward as putting them in your recycling bin and may require some organisation, however, it’s certainly possible to get rid of your wastage in a more environmentally friendly way.

  • Collaborative efforts: Establish partnerships with recycling facilities and suppliers committed to sustainability, ensuring the proper disposal and recycling of stretch films.
  • From waste to resource: Understand the impact of recycling programs on resource conservation, waste reduction, and long-term sustainability goals.

Choosing the Right Responsible Suppliers

Sourcing industrial packaging machinery and materials from suppliers that prioritise sustainability is essential. Consider the following factors:

  • Sourcing sustainably: Evaluate suppliers that offer a range of sustainable options and who can help you find what you’re looking for.
  • Beyond the bottom line: Consider supplier sustainability initiatives, quality, compatibility with eco-friendly practices, and adherence to ethical and environmental standards.
  • Partnership for progress: Collaborate with suppliers who share a common vision of sustainability, fostering long-term relationships that drive positive change.

Provide Employee Training

Your sustainable practices as a business are only as good as the person implementing them and to ensure that your initiatives are implemented you need to educate your team.

Here are some things to think about:

  • Cultivating a green mindset: Empower employees through training and awareness programs on sustainable wrapping practices, highlighting their role in achieving sustainability goals.
  • Nurturing innovation: Encourage a culture of innovation and open communication, where employees can share ideas and suggestions for sustainable improvements in pallet wrapping processes.
  • Sustainability ambassadors: Recognise and celebrate employees who champion eco-friendly practices, inspiring others to follow suit and fostering a culture of sustainability throughout the organisation.

Sustainable Pallet Wrapping Machinery and Materials in Australia

If you’re looking at improving the sustainability of your business practices when it comes to packaging and logistics, then here at Melbourne Packaging Supplies, we can help you.

Our range includes eco-friendly materials and high-quality machinery to ensure that you can maximise the efficiency in your business and implement some of the sustainable practices we’ve mentioned today.

We supply our machinery and materials Australia-wide and we’re here to answer any questions you have and provide you with guidance when it comes to finding the right packaging tools and materials for your business, so get in touch with us today.