Only one planet

If everyone lived as we do in the UK we would need three planets to support us. Problem is we only have one available, and the resources on this one are either in a state of decline or simply running out.

We are looking at our whole business and asking ourselves one simple question – how and where can we use less? We think it's a great question as not only does it help to reduce our environmental impact, but it also means that we are forced to be that little bit more creative, and ultimately that we spend less money too. All good.

We use the most resources (and therefore have the greatest impact) in our supply chain, so it is essential that we work in partnership with our suppliers to achieve reductions. We work with our suppliers on water and energy efficiency, reduced waste production and recycling. Energy and waste translate directly to our carbon footprint.

We monitor and discuss performance with each supplier quarterly and work closely with them on projects that will help them reach their goals. On a yearly basis we get them to provide a detailed set of data that forms the baseline for the following year.

We have seen some great results, from reductions of between 5% and 10% of electricity and gas usage over the last few years, and 3 suppliers have more than halved the waste they send to landfill – with one of those committed to sending nothing to landfill by the end of 2011.

During 2010 we also completed the task of diverting all organic waste from our co-packers to anaerobic digestion. Meanwhile, 2011 is looking like a better year already with some smashing projects on the pad, such as full site waste prevention reviews and a potential on site energy generation project.