Tackling mixed waste a priority

• Improved waste-sorting channels cut back on mixed waste destined for incineration
• Better-sorted waste leads to lower waste costs, resale options, more staff participation 
• Improvement measures generate savings of around € 6 000 per year

Nestlé Purina, a food-processing company, has been working to reduce material losses at source and during manufacturing.

Despite existing recycling and sorting channels, an unacceptable level of mixing (plastic and cardboard) was observed. The company reorganised its waste flows, separating them more effectively with the introduction of appropriate channels. It also introduced an awareness campaign aimed at staff, which coupled with the introduction of a simpler system of waste-separation bins around the site and compacting facilities for recoverable waste, delivered considerable benefits.

Key benefits

These improvement measures generate savings of around € 6 000 per year, including sales of reusable waste and lowered cost of treating mixed waste. For example, Nestlé Purina reduced the tonnage of non-hazardous waste in blends by 21 % from one year to the next (at equivalent production).

The redirected ratio on plastics and cartons is stable also thanks to rationalised packaging of raw materials. The company monitors the performance of the sorting systems by using indicators related to production.