Financial savings in Target Zero

Choosing the right raw materials is an important aspect of waste minimisation.

Five Christchurch companies will save at least $220,000 a year because of the Target Zero waste minimisation programme.

This programme is about sustaining business and the environment. Between May and October last year five manufacturing businesses took part in a City Council programme in which waste minimisation was put into practice in each of their operations.

Financial benefits identified by the companies by the end of the first six months totalled more than $220,000 on a yearly basis.

These savings were mostly achieved with no capital investment and further projects, with an annual savings potential between $350,000-$400,000, were identified. Non-financial benefits included reduction in landfill material, increased recycling and lower carbon dioxide emissions (through energy reduction).

All five companies achieved savings in the areas of solid waste disposal and energy consumption, while other savings were made in the areas of the use of raw materials, the processing of consumables and in the use of recyclable materials.

An important benefit was the staffs’ improved awareness of waste. All five companies - AEP Flexipac, Canterbury Laundry, General Cables, PDL, and Quality Bakers — are still maintaining their in-house waste-minimisation programmes and two have committed to training further teams.

The Council’s Target Zero waste minimisation programme has dealt with 27 companies and is one of six waste minimisation service products offered by the Council.

Contacts: Jim Watt, Target Zero Programme Manager: 941 8344, Catherine Webb, Programme Administrator: 941 8487, or Chris Byrch: 941 8856.

Related Information
Target Zero