LEVEL 1 B-BBEE
IATF16949
ISO 9001
ISO 14001
TEL: +27 011-314 5444
EMAIL: quotes@clomark.com
ADDRESS: 7 Bushbuck close, Corporate Park South Midrand, Johannesburg
SUSTAINABILITY
The packaging industry is under growing pressure to redesign packaging so as to reduce, reuse or recycle material content (the 3 R’s), rightfully so. In a world in which plastic is now deemed fiendish, its important role in the current packaging mix should not be overlooked.
Clomark believes that radical packaging design change is needed, and as a member of Packaging SA, is contributing to that effort.
Whilst we are all under pressure to make products more recyclable, reusable or compostable, the lack of suitable, economical green alternatives locally make plastic a necessary evil, at least for the foreseeable future. Plastic packaging preserves and protects its contents, providing tamper evidence, all of which are crucial to consumers. It is much cheaper than other options, having high recycling rates in South Africa, and is a source of recoverable fuel and energy.
As far as possible, Clomark works directly with customers’ designers and brand owners to create product designs that are kind to the environment. We work with customers in understanding what their specific intent is, and then designing the packaging to achieve the result.
Key factors are often the reduction in packaging volume, cost benefit and the use of recyclable materials. Reusability and local recyclability must be considered alongside functionality.
The challenge is compounded by the proliferation of laminates combining normally recyclable plastic types with other plastics and metallized layers that are not recyclable.
Clomark works closely with customers and raw material manufacturers to develop innovative packaging solutions.
We have produced a two-layer laminate that has replaced more complex, unrecyclable and non-compostable laminates, and has been used to manufacture sachets for wet wipes with 80% alcohol content destined for European markets.
We encourage customers to re-examine their product formulations for complex packaging as, modifying active ingredients may make a profound difference. For example, body scrub plastic microbeads – a growing contaminant of water – have been replaced by many customers with organic alternatives such as sugar, salt and wheat.
Many countries have adopted the circular economy model, which mimics the biorhythms of nature. Waste is seen as having value and as a resource for another process. True economic circularity may resolve the problem and create other opportunities, but requires ownership by all players.
The government recently adapted its National Waste Management Strategy by making the circular economy central to waste management and introducing the requirement for industry-managed waste plans. Clomark subscribes wholeheartedly to this development.
Clomark recognized the need for responsible environmental practices and a change of manufacturing processes to support environmental sustainability two decades ago when it earned its ISO 14001 certification, becoming a frontrunner in adapting to the circular economy model.
Every environmental aspect and related impact are carefully considered, quantified and supported by action plans to continually reduce the impact on the environment.
Our latest investment in solar energy, which powers a substantial amount of the operations, has demonstrated a significant reduction in greenhouse gases. We also have a “zero waste” policy and have introduced Bokashi composting bins in the workplace and in our homes.
LEVEL 1 B-BBEE
IATF16949
ISO 9001
ISO 14001
