Reducing waste has been a mainstream topic for well over a decade at this point. This is, in part, due to better technology that has allowed us to understand the planet and our environment in more depth. However, it’s also partially due to the era of information, and that same technology allowing a larger population more access to that information and data. In other words, with more eyes on the problem, and a better understanding of the issues at hand, the more empowered the general public is, and the general economy is, to take actions toward a solution.
Plus, beyond identifying and understanding the environmental issues at hand; there are a series of cost benefits to implementing stronger waste management practices into your business as well. Not to mention, with the general public having a more firm grasp on the problem and potential solutions, consumers are more likely to take their business to companies they see operating in an environmentally conscious way.
5 Tips For Reducing Waste
To help you and your organization get a jump on joining the sustainability movement, Glacier Consulting has compiled a list of a few waste reducing tips that you can start implementing into your organization sooner rather than later.
Audit Your Facilities
Anyone familiar with ISO should recognize this immediately. The importance of internal and 3rd party audits as evaluation tools is undoubted. This is especially true in regards to assessing their involvement in sustainable and environmentally friendly business practices.
When conducting an environmental audit on your companies facilities think of it this way; the smallest player in the industry still has to meet industry regulations – if you want to stand out, go above and beyond the bare minimum and show a real dedication to the initiative. This can also be assisted by ISO certifications, as they’re aligned with the UN’s SDG’s.
Evaluate Packaging
Packaging is a huge culprit in terms of excess and unnecessary waste. Conducting evaluations on your packaging on an ongoing basis is an important workflow to build into your organization.
Packaging technology is constantly advancing and improving, so keeping your packaging up to date, and on brand, is a challenge that the best brands take in stride.
Go Paperless
This seems like it should be a no-brainer, and to a digital-native, maybe it is. However, there are plenty of businesses, big and small, that are still operating heavily with paper. From bills, to business documents, and everything in between.
However, going paperless is a simple and easy way to start your company on the path of sustainable operations. Plus, many services offer a small discount for choosing paperless.
Demand Forecasting
Implementing a demand forecasting model into your waste reduction strategy can completely elevate your strategy altogether. A demand forecasting system allows your organization to predict consumer needs and therefore properly stock your inventory.
This helps companies avoid overstocking and understocking issues, keeps them from needing to place special one-time orders, and other costly mistakes that stem from a lack of forecasting.
Optimize Communication
Finally, you’ve heard it before, and you’ll hear it again, communication is key. This is true in every partnership, business, personal, or otherwise. Having optimized communication channels will keep your team on the same page, and ensure that the most is being made out of every opportunity.
This includes a reduction in slow communications that lead to bottlenecked operations, information loops that lead to needless consumption, and other waste-heavy activities as well.
A Final Thought
There are hundreds of tactics to consider when building your waste-reduction strategy. For more information on waste reducing strategies, or any of your ISO consultancy needs, visit Glacier Consulting today and get in touch with an expert ISO consultant.
