As
global producers of plastic containers, we have
a responsibility from design to disposal to meet
sustainability demands. Our sustainability initiatives
are guided by a philosophy of Reduce, Recycle and
Reuse.
Plastipak holds itself accountable to stakeholders
to run our operations in an environmentally friendly
manner for current and future generations. We have
made that goal an inseparable part of our business
plan.
Learn more
about all Plastipak’s Sustainability
Initiatives.
Operational Improvements
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
We have calculated our carbon footprint
to help us establish a specific reduction
target for the future.
Energy, Water and Waste Reduction Programs
We formalized our energy reduction programs company-wide in 2008. This gives us a wider, more unified and measurable approach to reducing our energy use.
Reducing Electrical Consumption
In 2008, Plastipak’s Energy Team identified electricity as a key area where we
could reduce usage. Strategies to help save electricity use and costs were outlined
by the team, including a training program for all site managers.
Compressed Air Leaks
Leaks of compressed air comprise as much as 20%-30% of the compressor’s output,
resulting
in high electricity usage. In 2009 we started a program where we systematically
identify and repair compressed air leaks.
Production Process Improvements
Hybridizing Gaylord Containers
The hybrid gaylord container is made with
reduced cardboard content, for a longer-lasting,
more efficient storage item. About 90%
of the gaylord containers we use are hybrids,
saving an estimated 400 trees per year.
Lighter Weight Liners
The thickness of liners on gaylord pallets was reduced significantly, saving 150,000 pounds of plastic!
Recycled, Reused Pallets
About 25% of all our pallets are made from recycled wood
and are reused several times. We purchase an estimated 20,000
reused pallets annually, saving about 200 trees per year.
Our commitment to conserving forests includes developing
a program to protect the rainforest in Brazil.
Environmentally Innovative Digital Decorating
Plastipak’s Ink to Bottle™ technology eliminates the need for labeling substrates, reducing Plastipak’s carbon footprint in production, transportation and post-consumer waste. This quick, simple and eco-efficient technology allows customers to engage consumers with highly customized packaging solutions designed to communicate the most targeted, consumer-centric messaging to local markets worldwide.
More Energy-efficient Forklifts
We utilize over 300 forklifts to move hundreds of thousands
of products at every site. Our forklifts are powered by either
batteries or propane. Propane provides a more environmentally
friendly fuel than gasoline or diesel.
Product Improvements
Lightweighting
Programs
Lightweighting is the technical process of reducing the weight of plastic bottles, while maintaining functionality, durability and consumer appeal. This reduces the resin content of the bottle and uses less electricity overall.
1881 Finish Developments
This 1881 Finish Developments program was initiated by the International Society of Beverage Technologists to optimize the weight and functionality of carbonated drinks. In late 2008, we joined the 1881 conversion, reducing the finish weight by over 25 percent.
ThermoShape™
ThermoShape™ is Plastipak’s exclusive technology and breakthrough process involving lightweighting and reshaping a Hot Fill bottle. This process saves significantly on resin, has the ability to use existing blow molding/filling lines, and has increased flexibility and freedom. Products that could benefit from ThermoShape™ include sports drinks, juice, food and nutritional supplements and other hot filled beverages.
Multi-Layered HDPE
We use recycled material for the middle layers of multi-layered HDPE containers for non-food products such as detergents and cleaning products. This maximizes the use of recycled plastic collected from homes and offices that are then sent to recycling facilities such as ours.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions 
Hybridizing Gaylord Containers
Lightweighting
Programs