Green Articles Archives - Material Handling Wholesaler

ORBIS acquires Creative Techniques and expands packaging

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 15:54:57 +0000

ORBIS Corporation has announced that it has acquired substantially all the assets of Creative Techniques, Inc. (CTI), which is headquartered in Orion Township, Mich. ORBIS is a subsidiary of Menasha Corporation. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Founded in 1984, CTI’s business focuses on designing and manufacturing custom packaging, including stand-alone trays, container dunnage, precision rack dunnage, seat pallets, and kitting trays. It offers state-of-the-art high-pressure injection molding, structural foam molding, and prototyping capabilities. ORBIS also acquired CTI’s facilities, including 60,000 square feet of manufacturing space and 22,000 square feet of warehousing space. Approximately 110 employees are joining the ORBIS team in connection with the transaction. “What excites me about this acquisition is the engineering excellence and solutions-focused approach CTI brings to its customers,” said ORBIS President Norm Kukuk. “They create tremendous value in their front-end processes, tooling development, rapid prototyping capabilities, and ultimately the high-quality packaging they deliver to customers. We look forward to welcoming their talented team to ORBIS and expanding our capabilities in these areas.” CTI serves the automotive industry and has a proven track record in delivering value to its customers with innovative products and service levels. President and CEO of Menasha Corporation Chris Drees lauded CTI’s track record of delivering value to its customers in the automotive industry with innovative products and service levels, noting that “CTI is strongly aligned with ORBIS in its focus on sustainability, customer relationships, innovation, and supply chain expertise.” ORBIS is a market leader in reusable packaging solutions for the automotive and retail supply chain markets. It produces plastic returnable totes, bulk containers, pallets, dunnage, and metal racks in twelve manufacturing sites and operates more than thirty service centers across North America and Europe.

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Power Adhesives launches first-to-market biodegradable hot melt for carton and corrugated packaging industry

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 15:08:43 +0000

Brands, converters & packers can support the circular economy with latest adhesive innovation Marking a world-first, UK-headquartered Power Adhesives has announced the launch of its fully certified, biodegradable, shaped hot melt adhesive designed for use by carton, corrugated packaging & POS converters, as well as contract packers. Certified to completely break down in the presence of oxygen, leaving behind only non-harmful products and no microplastics, Tecbond 214B is manufactured with 44% bio-based materials and certified to ASTM D6400 and EN13432; the EU standard that sets out the requirements for compostable and biodegradable products. Brendan Colgan, Power Adhesives Chief Executive Officer, said: “This is an exciting time for the packaging industry. All players in the supply chain are working hard to drive sustainable products and processes into the market to support brands and consumers, and this is truly a groundbreaking moment for the packaging adhesives sector. “Brands and their packaging partners often expect new sustainable solutions to come at a premium cost. With Tecbond 214B, we’re delivering the adhesive quality and performance our customers have come to rely on combined with the same competitive pricing – no compromise. We recognise that the climate emergency is driving entire industries to step up and become more sustainable. While we’re working on our sustainability journey, we hope this innovation will lead the way for the packaging adhesives industry.” Available globally, Tecbond 214B offers the same performance characteristics as standard tecbond, with a high level of tack and fast setting speed providing an almost instant bond once applied and compressed. This enables companies to drive efficiency into packing procedures, improving workflow and output. Tecbond 214B is also an indirect food contact approved, enabling it to be used in all areas of the food packaging process, from wrap-around cartons and boxes to shipping packaging.

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SupplyOne receives prestigious Pregis Inspyre and Preserve awards

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 19:08:39 +0000

SupplyOne, Inc., the largest independent supplier of corrugated and other value-added packaging products, equipment, and services in North America, just announced it has been honored with the Pregis Inspyre and Preserve awards. These awards highlight SupplyOne’s commitment to sustainability and dedicated efforts to improve lives worldwide. Pregis’s Inspyre Award honors customers who are changing lives through their commitments to a better world. As a member of the ‘1% for the Planet’ initiative, 1% of all Pregis’s Inspyre sales go directly to Uzima, a non-profit that provides life-changing water filters to communities in need. SupplyOne’s Packaging Specialists objectively assess each unique customer’s application and, drawing from the broadest range of packaging products available, provide unbiased guidance on the optimal packaging solution to address their objectives. Through this process and subsequent recommendation of Pregis’ Inspyre packaging, SupplyOne directly contributes to global clean water access. Through the Inspyre initiative, SupplyOne has made a significant difference, impacting over 6,900 lives. It’s a stark reality that one in nine people worldwide experiences water insecurity. This often leads to waterborne illnesses and contributes to a cyclical trap of poverty. Each Uzima filter can provide clean water to a family of 6-10 people, reducing medical expenses, improving school attendance, and empowering better lives. The Pregis Preserve Award recognizes efforts to promote sustainable Easypack paper solutions. Pregis’s Easypack paper is 100% recycled, 100% recyclable, and 100% biodegradable. This chain of custody-certified product has tangible benefits for the world’s forests. Each ton of Easypack paper used equates to 17 trees saved from harvest. Healthy forests are vital in reducing carbon dioxide levels, providing cleaner air and water, and offering sanctuary for vulnerable species. By helping manufacturers and processors implement Easypack paper solutions, SupplyOne has helped save over 13,000 trees from harvest, further demonstrating its commitment to a greener planet. These accolades underscore SupplyOne’s dedication to sustainability and social responsibility. We are grateful to Pregis for the recognition and will continue to work towards positively impacting our shared environment.

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GRI launches its NEXT GENERATION sustainable tires at the GREEN IMPACT 2024

Fri, 08 Mar 2024 22:27:34 +0000

GRI, a producer of specialty tires for agriculture, material handling, and construction machines, unveiled its NEXT GENERATION of environmentally friendly specialty tires with very high sustainable material content. GRI’s sustainable agriculture tire range, the GREEN XLR EARTH series, now comes with 87.3% sustainable material whilst the ULTIMATE GREEN XT the sustainable material handling tire boasts an impressive 93.5% sustainable material. These NEXT GENERATION tires embody GRI’s vision of moving humanity towards making a positive impact on our planet and dedication to reducing its environmental footprint while delivering high-performance specialty tire solutions. Leveraging innovative technology and advanced natural rubber compounds, GRI continues to lead the way in sustainability across its entire value chain. This significant product launch took place at The GREEN IMPACT 2024 in Sri Lanka, an event that brought together industry professionals and key media personnel from across the globe. Spanning across 3 days, The GREEN IMPACT marked a significant milestone in GRI’s sustainability journey, reaffirming its commitment to environmental stewardship and innovation in Specialty Tire technology. Bureau Veritas, a business-to-business service provider in the field of testing, inspection, and certification, validated GRI’s commitment to environmental responsibility by attesting to the carbon footprint reduction of the environmentally friendly, “green” specialty tires. “This certification underscores GRI’s unwavering dedication to sustainability in tires and quality of product” stated Dr Mahesha Ranasoma, CEO of GRI who presented the products to the attendees. Mr. Prabhash Subasinghe, Managing Director of GRI remarked, “The NEXT GENERATION of GRI’s green tires are more than just products; they are symbols of our unwavering dedication to sustainability. With the highest percentage of sustainable materials, these Agriculture and Material Handling tires represent a beacon of hope for a greener tomorrow. From its conception to its production, every aspect has been meticulously crafted to minimize environmental impact without compromising on performance.” With the introduction of the NEXT GENERATION of environmentally friendly Specialty Tires, GRI continues to drive sustainable innovation and set new benchmarks in the Specialty Tire industry.

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Crowley wins Innovation Award for partnerships in sustainable innovation

Thu, 06 Jul 2023 23:31:38 +0000

Crowley’s advancement of innovation and startup ventures earned the U.S.-based company the 2023 Supply Chain Corporate Innovation Partner Award from Plug and Play, a global innovation platform. Crowley has enhanced venture opportunities and created partnerships based on leveraging technologies to promote greater supply chain performance. The partnerships include investments in carbon recapture technology, truck optimization, hydrogen zero-emission maritime energy and more. In addition, Crowley hosted its inaugural Innovation Expo in Jacksonville, Florida, this year, featuring start-ups presenting an array of technological developments. “Crowley has combined venture investment with our commitment to sustainability and decarbonization to open new doors for partnerships that help improve our industry and the communities we serve,” said Chief Strategy Officer Deepak Arora of Crowley. “We appreciate this recognition of our team’s vision and accomplishments from Plug and Play. Crowley looks forward to advancing the supply chain industry’s opportunities through even more collaboration and innovation.” Plug and Play connects startups, corporations, venture capital firms, universities and government agencies. Headquartered in Silicon Valley in California, the organization provides corporate innovation programs, and it helps partners in every stage of their innovation journey from education to execution. “We are truly honored to present Crowley with the Supply Chain Corporate Innovation Award this year. Crowley has continuously led the charge to make the logistics industry more innovative over the course of our partnership, and we look forward to continued collaboration for years to come,” said Plug and Play Supply Chain Director Frederik Bohn. “Congratulations to the entire team for their hard work!”

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Plastics Industry Association statement on Oregon’s Single-Use Plastic Law

Tue, 09 May 2023 21:10:42 +0000

The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) has released the following statement on Oregon’s new single-use plastics law, which bans restaurants and other food vendors from using expanded polystyrene food containers: “Oregon’s new single-use plastics law is unnecessary given the state’s recently enacted extended producer responsibility (EPR) law,” said Matt Seaholm, PLASTICS President and CEO. “Rather than give the people of Oregon the chance to responsibly recycle materials, this law forces the costly replacement of recyclable containers with alternative materials that could create an even larger carbon footprint. The plastics industry wants to keep plastic out of the environment and in the economy; we are committed to eliminating waste, but a ban like this is potentially worse for the environment and increases costs for business owners and consumers.”

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Cybertrol Engineering wins Rockwell Automation PartnerNetwork™ Sustainability Award

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 19:25:20 +0000

Cybertrol Engineering, a provider of plantwide automation systems and information integration solutions, today announced that Rockwell Automation, the world’s largest company dedicated to industrial automation and digital transformation, has named Cybertrol Engineering the winner of the first-ever Sustainability Award during the 2023 Rockwell Automation PartnerNetwork Conference. The Sustainability Award acknowledges a PartnerNetwork firm that has demonstrated outstanding efforts, initiatives, and programs in the field of environmentalism. The recipient company must align with Rockwell Automation’s mission to integrate control and information across the enterprise to help industrial companies be more productive and sustainable. “We are honored to be recognized by Rockwell Automation for the first-ever Sustainability Award in our efforts to provide viable and cutting-edge technology to our clients,” said Ben Durbin, president of Cybertrol Engineering. “Our team is committed to delivering solutions that not only help our clients achieve their automation goals but also contribute to a more sustainable future. We are proud to be at the forefront of this important movement and look forward to continuing to drive positive change in the industry.” Cybertrol Engineering and client Meati have collaborated to provide a system that sustainably grows a type of protein derived from a mushroom root, commonly referred to as mycelium. This protein is used to produce tasty and healthy meat alternatives, which are becoming a popular dietary choice in America. Meati uses a Cybertrol-designed advanced control system that provides continuous visibility into the production process, optimizing water usage, energy, and time, resulting in a more sustainable end product. As Meati continuously sets sustainability objectives and pledges, the transparency of this data through the control system created by Cybertrol utilizing Rockwell Automation goods will enable establishing significant targets with a clear view. Meati products offer an environmentally conscious alternative to traditional meat choices like cows and chickens, as they require fewer resources and eliminate the need for antibiotics and growth hormones. The collaboration provides more choices for consumers who want to reduce their consumption of conventional meat due to environmental, social, or dietary concerns. Cybertrol Engineering—a Rockwell Automation Gold System Integrator Partner—was selected as the first-ever winner of the Sustainability Award in recognition of the company’s commitment to delivering innovative food and beverage industry solutions that optimize the use of resources, reducing waste and energy consumption, and minimize environmental impact. The company’s sustainability-focused approach has helped its clients to achieve significant cost savings while also reducing their carbon footprint. “It is an honor to deliver our Rockwell Automation PartnerNetwork Sustainability Award to Cybertrol Engineering, which delivered a cutting-edge solution to Meati, a mushroom-root protein company,” said Andrea Ruotolo, global head of customer sustainability at Rockwell Automation. “The protein products could play a meaningful role in addressing the challenge of climate change and food security. The solution allows for deeper and continuous visibility into the data required to optimize water, energy, and time within the processes.” The PartnerNetwork Conference was centered on redefining the potential for partnerships through collaboration, as well as reinforcing the significance of the worldwide community to promote customer accomplishments. During the conference, which featured sessions and industry networking events, partners were highly visible, particularly during the PartnerNetwork Awards. Now in their second year, the awards honor the achievements of organizations that have successfully planned and executed innovative and transformational solutions.

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Carlisle Companies announces commitment to achieve Net-Zero GHG Emissions by 2050

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 17:20:16 +0000

Carlisle Companies Incorporated has announced a commitment to achieve Net-Zero greenhouse gas emissions across its entire value chain by 2050. Carlisle has proposed near-term greenhouse gas reduction targets through the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi). Setting near-term targets are the first step to setting a long-term net-zero target with SBTi. The methods and reduction scenarios Carlisle has adopted in the near-term targets are aligned with the SBTi Net-Zero Standard. The SBTi is a partnership among the Carbon Disclosure Project, the United Nations Global Compact, the World Resources Institute, and the World Wide Fund for Nature. It focuses on partnering with companies to help guide emission reduction initiatives using science-based targets. Chris Koch, Chair, President and Chief Executive Officer, said, “Our announcement today of Carlisle’s commitment to achieving Net-Zero by 2050 is another significant milestone on our ESG journey. We understand the path to Net-Zero cannot happen overnight, requires substantial effort from our supply chain partners, and will also depend on significant changes to global energy infrastructure. We continue our commitment to being a responsible environmental stakeholder, as we have for over 100 years, by delivering products that improve the energy efficiency of buildings while reducing emissions from our manufacturing facilities and reducing the volume of construction materials in landfills. With Carlisle’s employees engaged and momentum growing, we are confident Carlisle can make a meaningful contribution to creating a more sustainable future for us all.”

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Crowley secures subcontract for Hybrid-Electric Ferry

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 00:55:21 +0000

Crowley has been selected by Senesco Marine to provide design verification and production packaging for a hybrid-electric passenger vehicle ferry for Casco Bay Lines of Portland, Maine. As part of an elite project team, Crowley brings expansive capabilities in sustainable, emissions-reducing design and construction services. Under the contract, Crowley will use its development experience in electric and hybrid propulsion systems to verify the contract design by Elliott Bay Design Group and develop the production package that is necessary for Senesco Marine to begin construction. The production package provides critical detail engineering to ensure that the ferry is both energy- and capacity-efficient during its operation. Expected to be in service in 2024, the passenger-vehicle ferry will be a true hybrid vessel with the ability to operate using a diesel-electric system, a zero-emissions, fully battery-powered system, or a combination of those options. The vessel, which will hold up to 599 passengers and 15 vehicles, will replace an existing diesel-powered ferry, resulting in a reduction of 800 tons of carbon dioxide each year. “We are collaborating with fellow industry leaders to deliver sustainable, high-performing marine solutions that are better for the environment and well-serve the communities where they operate,” said Coulston Van Gundy, vice president, of Crowley Engineering Services. The project collaboration among Crowley, Senesco Marine, Elliott Bay Design Group and Casco Bay Lines reflects Crowley’s commitment to reducing its environmental impact, as well as its customers, through sustainable innovation across all scopes — including its value chain — as highlighted by its inaugural sustainability report. “We are proud to begin construction on another hybrid-electric ferry, a sustainable solution to carry passengers from point A to point B, made possible by a strong team to include Crowley’s partnership and notable design and verification experience,” said Ted Williams, president, Senesco Marine. In addition to designing the eWolf, the first all-electric U.S. tugboat now under construction, Crowley will leverage its industry-leading know-how of design innovation, construction management, and operation of hybrid tugboats as well as lower emissions marine solutions such as LNG ships.

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San Pedro Bay Ports release final 2021 Cargo-Handling Equipment Assessment

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 16:56:47 +0000

The study evaluates the state of technology, incorporates stakeholder feedback The San Pedro Bay ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles have released a final report on the current state and overall feasibility of using clean cargo-handling equipment technology, while working toward the 2017 Clean Air Action Plan (CAAP) Update’s 2030 goal of a zero-emissions cargo-handling fleet. The final 2021 feasibility assessment for cargo-handling equipment is available on the Clean Air Action Plan website, posted here. The ports released a draft assessment in March 2022 for public review and comment. It built upon the inaugural 2018 assessment and examined the current state of technology, operational characteristics, economic considerations, infrastructure availability, and commercial readiness related to cleaner cargo-handling equipment. The final report addresses feedback from a diverse group of stakeholders. Updated in 2017, the CAAP contains a comprehensive strategy to accelerate progress toward a zero-emissions future while protecting and strengthening the ports’ competitive position in the global economy. As part of this strategy, the ports committed to developing feasibility assessments every three years for terminal equipment and drayage trucks to inform their approach to meeting those goals. Currently, the ports are demonstrating 56 pieces of cargo-handling equipment, including zero-emissions yard tractors, top handlers, forklifts, and rubber-tired gantry cranes, and 16 class 8 on-road trucks, including hybrid, battery-electric, and hydrogen fuel cell technologies, with a number of additional terminal equipment and on-road trucks to be commissioned by the end of the year. The ports plan to continue demonstrating advanced technologies to accelerate the adoption of clean cargo-handling equipment at the nation’s busiest seaport complex. Since 2005, port-related air pollution emissions in San Pedro Bay have dropped 90% for diesel particulate matter, 63% for nitrogen oxides, and 97% for sulfur oxides. Targets for reducing greenhouse gases (GHGs) from port-related sources were introduced as part of the 2017 CAAP Update. The document calls for the ports to reduce GHGs to 40% below 1990 levels by 2030 and 80% below 1990 levels by 2050. The CAAP was originally approved in 2006. The Port of Los Angeles and Port of Long Beach are the two largest ports in the nation, first and second respectively, and combined are the ninth-largest port complex in the world. Trade that flows through the San Pedro Bay ports complex generates more than 3 million jobs nationwide.

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Port of Long Beach welcomes Pasha Hawaii LNG-Powered Ship

Wed, 17 Aug 2022 22:11:50 +0000

‘MV George III’ first to refuel with liquefied natural gas on West Coast The Port of Long Beach on Wednesday welcomed Pasha Hawaii’s MV George III, the first container ship powered by liquefied natural gas to refuel on the West Coast. The ship’s LNG-powered engines are dramatically cleaner than those of a traditional cargo ship. Following George III’s inaugural visit to Long Beach, the newly built 774-foot-long ship will begin its maiden voyage to its home port in Honolulu. And there’s another LNG Pasha ship on the way – the Janet Marie will be the second of two “Ohana Class” container ships to join Pasha Hawaii’s fleet, in the fourth quarter of 2022, in service between Hawaii and the U.S. mainland. “Reducing ship emissions will have a significant and positive impact on the region’s air quality,” said Port of Long Beach Executive Director Mario Cordero. “We thank Pasha Hawaii for leading the way in green shipping at the Green Port.” “This is another positive step toward the widespread adoption of alternative fuels in cargo shipping and using cleaner technology to do business at the Port,” said Harbor Commission President Sharon L. Weissman. “Pasha Hawaii shares our long-term commitment for growing sustainably and responsibly.” “As we mark our 75th anniversary and welcome George III to Long Beach, we are proud to continue my family’s legacy of innovation and environmental stewardship, while recognizing our employees as our extended ‘ohana,’ ” said George Pasha IV, president and CEO, Pasha Hawaii. “We are also grateful for our partnership with the Port of Long Beach. Being able to fuel MV George III with natural gas at the Port reflects our shared vision of minimizing our environmental impact while setting a new standard for shipbuilding in the U.S.” The vessel was named after George Pasha IV’s late father, George Pasha III. Operating fully on natural gas, the new vessel surpasses the International Maritime Organization’s 2030 emission standards for ocean vessels, representing the most technologically advanced and environmentally friendly class of vessel to serve Hawaii and one of several that serve Long Beach. Energy efficiencies are also achieved with a state-of-the-art engine, an optimized hull form, and an underwater propulsion system with a high-efficiency rudder and propeller. LNG-powered ships achieve a 99.9% reduction in diesel particulate matter and sulfur oxide emissions, 90% less nitrogen oxides, and a 25% reduction in carbon dioxide compared to ships running on traditional fuels. Accommodating Pasha Hawaii’s new LNG-fueled ship aligns with the Port of Long Beach’s dedication to environmental sustainability and strengthens its commitment to the Green Port Policy and San Pedro Bay Ports Clean Air Action Plan enacted more than 15 years ago. Those historic actions have led to unprecedented reductions in emissions connected to goods movement as the Port continues to work toward meeting a goal of deploying all zero-emissions cargo-handling equipment by 2030 and zero-emissions drayage trucks by 2035. The Port of Long Beach is one of the world’s premier seaports, a gateway for trans-Pacific trade, and a trailblazer in goods movement and environmental stewardship. As the second-busiest container seaport in the United States, the Port handles trade valued at more than $200 billion annually and supports 2.6 million trade-related jobs across the nation, including 575,000 in Southern California. Pasha Hawaii, an independent operating subsidiary of The Pasha Group, is one of the nation’s leading domestic ocean shipping companies serving Hawaii from the continental United States. The company operates a fleet of seven fully Jones Act-qualified vessels and operates out of multiple port terminals. Pasha Hawaii is a trusted partner for many of the nation’s leading retailers, manufacturers, and U.S. government agencies, providing reliable containerized and roll-on/roll-off cargo services that leverage its unique combination of ocean transportation and inland distribution capabilities to deliver goods that are vital to the people of the State of Hawaii and the prosperity of the Hawaii market it serves.

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Orbis and Milwaukee Festival Inc. continue partnership to increase sustainability efforts at Summerfest

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 14:33:21 +0000

ORBIS® Corporation, an international reusable supply chain packaging provider, is continuing as the Official Sustainability Partner of Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. (MWF), the producer of Summerfest, “The World’s Largest Music Festival.” For the second year of this partnership, ORBIS will supply an additional 130 recycling bins to be used all season at ethnic and cultural festivals, public gatherings, concerts, and private corporate events at Henry Maier Festival Park. With this addition, ORBIS has supplied 260 recycling bins for use across the grounds. “Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. is proud to continue this partnership with ORBIS and increase recycling efforts throughout the 75 acres of Henry Maier Festival Park,” said Don Smiley, CEO of Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. MWF maintains and improves Henry Maier Festival Park, located along the shores of Lake Michigan in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Each year, the park has an average of 1.3 million visitors. Commencing last year, the initial sponsorship represented the start of a partnership with MWF focused on sustainability and recycling. In year one, the partnership placed 130 recycling bins for cups, silverware, and other single-use plastic waste throughout the festival grounds. This year, ORBIS and MWF added another 130 recycling bins and plan to continue expanding educational programming around recycling in years to come. “As a steward of sustainability, ORBIS is committed to helping customers reduce their overall environmental impact,” said Breanna Herbert, product manager and sustainability lead at ORBIS. “We’re proud to continue our partnership with Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. and look forward to seeing the sustained positive environmental impact this project will have on our community.” Beyond this partnership, ORBIS has a strong focus on recyclability. For example, 100% of ORBIS’ core products are made with recycled content and, at the end of their service life, reusable pallets, totes, and bins can be fully recycled into other useful products. Its Recycle with ORBIS program is designed to efficiently recover, recycle and reprocess packaging products at the end of their service life, preventing them from entering the solid waste stream.

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EPA plans unannounced inspection push

Tue, 08 Feb 2022 16:38:15 +0000

US EPA Administrator Michael Regan recently announced plans to bolster environmental enforcement efforts in communities that have been historically and disproportionately impacted by pollution. Most notably, EPA will “use its authority to conduct unannounced inspections of suspected non-compliant facilities.” To further protect historically overburdened communities, EPA announced additional actions as part of the Agency’s commitment to environmental justice, including: Deploying a new program to expand air monitoring capacity, utilizing assets such as the ASPECT airplane, GMAP mobile air monitoring vehicle, and additional air pollution inspectors to enhance enforcement. Mobilizing Agency resources to invest in community air monitoring to better protect people and public health in vulnerable areas. Increased monitoring and oversight of polluting facilities to hold companies more accountable for their actions. In a statement following his Journey to Justice tour, Regan emphasized that the Agency must act now, since overburdened communities have historically been neglected from Federal, State, and local action: “The pollution concerns have been impacting these communities for decades. Our actions will begin to help not only the communities I visited on this tour, but also others across the country who have suffered from environmental injustices.” In addition to the Agency-wide enforcement efforts, EPA is taking specific actions across Texas and Louisiana, such as piloting new air monitoring programs along three sections of Louisiana along the Mississippi River. The area is home to more than 150 chemical facilities, most within a 10-mile radius. In Texas, EPA has increased its focus on plants that manufacture ethylene oxide, a potentially cancer-causing compound used to make antifreeze among other substances. EPA plans to formally reject the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality’s less protective risk value for ethylene oxide as well. Environmental Justice in Recent EPA Enforcement Actions EPA has already put its environmental justice initiative to work through enforcement actions. On August 26, 2021, EPA announced a settlement with an oil company related to its facility in Montebello, CA. Montebello is about eight miles east of downtown Los Angeles, home to about 61,000 residents (according to the latest census data) and known for its oil reserves. As a result, the company agreed to pay a $132,676 civil penalty. This is an excellent example of why facility managers and compliance officers must always be vigilant of new and changing EPA priorities to help ensure that personnel is trained for any challenges they may face. DOJ to Hold Individuals Accountable for Environmental Crimes US EPA largely relies on administrative (i.e., non-criminal, civil) enforcement, reserving criminal enforcement for the most egregious cases. To discourage corporate environmental crimes moving forward, the Department of Justice (DOJ) is taking a tougher stance on individuals responsible for criminal acts. Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim made it clear that DOJ takes accountability for environmental criminals seriously, and so does recent enforcement history: In FY 2020, EPA’s enforcement and compliance assurance actions resulted in 247 new criminal cases opened. This is 77 more cases than the year prior and the most since 2014. Convenient, Effective Online EHS Manager Training Managing site compliance with the many complex EPA programs that affect your business—from the Clean Air and Clean Water Acts to TSCA, EPCRA, CERCLA, and more—is a major challenge. If you’re new to the field or need an update on changing EPA rules, online training is a convenient way to quickly build in-depth expertise. The Complete Environmental Regulations online course will prepare you to identify your site’s liabilities and responsibilities under major environmental laws and regulations. This course is ideal for new EHS managers, environmental consultants, and anyone who wants clarity about how complex environmental requirements fit together.

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Interthor/Logitrans is even more focused on green conversion – now with ISO 14001 certification

Tue, 08 Feb 2022 15:56:06 +0000

The Danish owner-managed company, Interthor Inc./Logitrans A/S, which for many decades has excelled in the global market for material handling equipment with its unique ergonomic solutions and high quality, is now even more focused on the green conversion. Most recently, Interthor/Logitrans has achieved another certification; the very recognized international standard in environmental management systems, ISO 14001. This standard sets specific requirements for the company to identify and understand its environmental impacts on activities and products. The company must establish an environmental policy, environmental objectives and set clear goals for improving its environmental efforts. “During the past year, we have worked purposefully to establish a strong foundation and a common understanding of environmental management system at Interthor / Logitrans, and we are therefore very proud of our ISO 14001 certification. With this certification, we have a tool to deliver environmental improvement results and to reduce pollution, waste generation, and inappropriate emissions into the environment ”. says Inese Niedola, QHSE Coordinator at Interthor/Logitrans. “We want to work strategically and consciously with our environmental goals and thereby minimize our environmental impact. With the ISO 14001 certification, we must constantly make improvements and evaluate. We have already done this before we were certified, but now we want to put even more focus on the environmental area. Over the past five years, Interthor/Logitrans has achieved very specific energy-saving measures, as electricity consumption has fallen by approx. 31%, which corresponds to a decrease in the CO2 footprint, cf. BBV tool, of 46.4 t. CO2″. added Niedola. “We have achieved the reduction through energy efficiency, where we, among other things. have replaced an exhaust system with regrowth and replaced an air compressor in our production, which has helped to reduce a large part of our electricity and gas consumption. We have also set some goals for further reduction and thereby expect to contribute even more to reducing our environmental impact. Our environmental certification should not just be visible on our website – it is a living and constant process that we will constantly work with “, explains Inese Niedola. Interthor/Logitrans’ goal is to work environmentally consciously, contribute actively and work purposefully with the green conversion, and Interthor / Logitrans therefore also works with the project “Klimaklar SMV” (“Climate Ready SME”), where small and medium-sized companies can get advice on how to strengthen growth and competitiveness via a specific climate strategy, CO2 calculation, and branding. Behind the project, you find the Manufacturing Industry, Danish Industry, and the Danish Industry Foundation in collaboration with other competent partners. Interthor/Logitrans also works with the nation-wide project ”Grøn Cirkulær Omstilling” (“Green Circular Transformation”), where the focus is put on development in a more sustainable and circular direction. This project is financed by the EU. “We have for a very long time focused on reducing CO2 emissions and green circular conversion, and through this work, we are now much more aware of our CO2 emission and how we can reduce it. The work has only just started, and we have high expectations and a lot of initiatives in the pipeline. One of the next projects is to make an overall sustainability strategy, which will become part of our overall strategy and a strategy for how we will implement and work with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. ” said CEO Gitte Kirkegaard.

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Evanesce® opens first U.S. Based Manufacturing Facility for Sustainable Product Development

Fri, 22 Oct 2021 19:17:02 +0000

The sustainable technology innovator open its South Carolina facility for the production of its 100% compostable, 100% plant-based, and cost-competitive PLA straws Evanesce®, a sustainable technology innovator driven to accelerate the adoption of sustainable and economically viable packaging solutions, has opened its first U.S. production facility in Hampton County, South Carolina. With the launch, the company not only hits a milestone in its global expansion plans but also addresses the worldwide shortage of eco-friendly Polylactic Acid (PLA) products due to overseas shipping delays. By ushering production into the U.S., Evanesce is set to truly disrupt the packaging industry by producing price competitive, 100% plant-based, and 100% compostable single-use products including straws, cutlery, and take-out containers. Spread across 15,000 sq ft, the sprawling new facility is equipped with state-of-the-art machinery that will produce Evanesce’s modified Polylactic Acid (PLA) line of products. Using renewable sources of corn with best-in-class PLA resin, these products are an affordable alternative to plastic and other incumbents. The facility currently has the ability to produce millions of compostable PLA straws per day. These straws are at par or cheaper than paper straws, offer significantly improved durability, and commercially compost within 90 days. “The opening of our first U.S.-based manufacturing facility in South Carolina is an exciting milestone in our growth plan. Being adjacent to I-95, our facility allows us to seamlessly service North America,” said Douglas Horne, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Evanesce, “South Carolina is ripe for industrial disruption and our investment in Hampton County could not have been possible without the support of the State and the County.” Evanesce is ready to inspire big change by delivering innovative and sustainable technology solutions to replace single-use plastics and Styrofoam. In addition to their line of PLA products, Evanesce is also stepping up investments for their patented Molded Starch Technology that upcycles food waste to produce 100% plant-based, and 100% compostable sustainable packaging at almost half the cost of other eco-friendly alternatives available in the market. Production of Molded Starch products including meal trays, meat trays, containers, and cups are expected in 2022. “When Evanesce decided to locate its new facility in Hampton County, we knew it would be incredibly impactful to both the local community and throughout South Carolina. Evanesce’s commitment of $17 million and 78 new jobs was only the beginning of our partnership. This great company shows that, together, we can tackle the growing problem of environmental waste with innovative solutions that are compostable, commercially viable, and cost-competitive,” shared Harry M. Lightsey III, Secretary of Commerce, South Carolina, and guest of honor of the event. The company is set to expand its operations further in the US, starting with a new 114,000 sq ft facility in Las Vegas, Nevada. The facility will include multiple straw lines, molded starch lines, thermo-formers, and lab space. “The expansion of our U.S. manufacturing operations enables Evanesce to address the current supply chain challenges for eco-friendly packaging into a major opportunity by starting production of our innovative sustainable solutions,” Horne added.

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Port reaches milestone at Long Beach Container Terminal

Fri, 20 Aug 2021 21:04:57 +0000

One of the world’s cleanest, most advanced terminals completed The Port of Long Beach ushered in the next era of environmentally sustainable operations today with the completion of the Long Beach Container Terminal at Middle Harbor, one of the most technologically advanced cargo facilities in the world. Equipped with nearly all-electric and zero-emissions equipment, LBCT at Middle Harbor is designed to strengthen competitiveness, improve cargo flow and dramatically enhance air quality amid an era of significant growth at the nation’s second-busiest seaport. “We are proud to have one of the greenest ports in America in the Port of Long Beach,” said Long Beach Mayor Robert Garcia. “The completion of this new terminal is a testament to our city’s continued commitment to sustainability and green technology.” “As the world’s first all-electric, zero-emission mega terminal, LBCT sets the industry standard for moving cargo sustainably while keeping the Port competitive and supporting vital jobs,” said Mario Cordero, Executive Director of the Port of Long Beach. “It is truly a technological marvel that will allow us to increase our throughput, improve air quality and maintain our status as a leading gateway for trans-Pacific trade.” “This new terminal charts a new course for greener cargo operations and strengthens our ongoing commitment to the Green Port Policy and San Pedro Bay Ports Clean Air Action Plan enacted about 15 years ago,” said Long Beach Harbor Commission President Steven Neal. “We thank our partners at Long Beach Container Terminal for collaborating with us over the past decade to develop the most advanced, greenest terminal in the world.” “The final phase of LBCT at Middle Harbor adds container capacity to the Port of Long Beach and ensures the speedy, secure, and sustainable delivery of millions of cargo containers for decades to come,” said Long Beach Container Terminal CEO Anthony Otto. “We would like to thank our partners at the ILWU and the Port of Long Beach for making this project a reality.” Construction of the $1.493 billion projects started in May 2011. The first part of the terminal opened five years later with the completion of Phase 1, allowing the terminal to begin operations across an initial 151 acres. Phase 2 wrapped up in October 2017, expanding the facility to 191 acres. The third and final phase concluded in July, growing the terminal to 300 acres with a completed container yard, an administration building and an on-dock rail yard designed to handle 1.1 million TEUs annually to minimize truck traffic on local roads and freeways. Additionally, 14 of the most modern ship-to-shore gantry cranes line a new, 4,200-foot-long concrete wharf capable of welcoming three massive ships at once, making the Port of Long Beach “big ship” ready for the future. Another 3 acres will be added in 2025 with the opening of the North Gate Expansion, completing the terminal with 303 acres. All ships calling at the terminal plug into shore power connections while berthed, allowing them to shut down diesel engines and connect to the landside electrical grid. All major structures are built with features to save power and water, meeting strict gold-level Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards. With an annual capacity of 3.3 million TEUs, LBCT by itself would rank as America’s sixth-busiest seaport, capable of moving twice the cargo with less than half of the air pollution of the two terminals it replaces. Increased trade moving through the terminal is generating 14,000 permanent new jobs in Southern California. Additionally, unionized labor at LBCT operates the all-electric ship-to-shore cranes, staffs the control center for operations, and maintains the technology. The Port of Long Beach is the nation’s second-busiest seaport. With 175 shipping lines connecting Long Beach to 217 seaports, the Port handles $200 billion in trade annually, supporting more than 575,000 Southern California jobs.

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Orbis and Milwaukee World Festival Inc. partner on new sustainability efforts for Summerfest

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 14:46:03 +0000

The packaging solution provider will sponsor the recycling program as the festival’s official sustainability partner ORBIS® Corporation, an international provider in reusable supply chain packaging, is the Official Sustainability Partner of Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. (MWF), the producers of Summerfest, “The World’s Largest Music Festival.” As MWF’s Official Sustainability Partner, ORBIS will supply 130 new recycling bins to be used all season at ethnic and cultural festivals, public gatherings, concerts, and private corporate events at Henry Maier Festival Park. “Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. is excited to partner with a company that has proven expertise and a history of successfully helping companies improve their sustainability,” said Don Smiley, president and CEO of Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. “We look forward to partnering with ORBIS to increase recycling throughout the grounds and educate park visitors about recycling.” MWF maintains Henry Maier Festival Park, located on 75 acres along the shores of Lake Michigan in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Each year, the park has an average of 1.3 million visitors. This initial sponsorship represents the start of a partnership with MWF focused on sustainability and recycling. In year one, the partnership will increase recycling bins for cups, silverware, and other single-use plastic waste throughout the festival grounds. In subsequent years, MWF plans to add recycling bins and expand educational programming around recycling. “At its core, ORBIS helps its customers reduce their overall environmental impact,” said Breanna Herbert, product manager and sustainability lead at ORBIS. “We’re proud to bring our extensive recycling and sustainability knowledge to this exclusive partnership and look forward to seeing the environmental impact we’ll be able to generate through these initiatives.” Beyond this partnership, ORBIS has a strong focus on recyclability. For example, 100% of ORBIS’ core products are made with recycled content and, at the end of their service life, reusable pallets, totes, and bins can be fully recycled into other useful products. Its “Recycle with ORBIS” program is designed to efficiently recover, recycle and reprocess packaging products at the end of their service life, preventing them from entering the solid waste stream.

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Yale secures two Green Awards for broad range of Lift Power Options

Wed, 28 Jul 2021 18:44:23 +0000

The Yale® Power Suite has earned two new industry accolades for providing warehouses and other material handling operations with the broadest range of power sources, available across a comprehensive line of lift trucks. Yale has been named a 2021 Green Supply Chain Partner by Inbound Logistics and a Top Green Provider by Food Logistics. The Yale Power Suite empowers customers with unrestricted choice of electric power sources and traditional internal combustion engines: Factory integrated lithium-ion trucks from Yale are designed to take advantage of the space-saving form factor of lithium-ion, combining the emissions and efficiency benefits of the power source with improved ergonomics for a more comfortable – and productive – operator. Lithium-ion ready lift trucks are set up from the factory or the field to run on either traditional lead-acid batteries or lithium-ion power, providing the freedom and flexibility to change between power sources by simply using the truck display or controller. Hydrogen fuel cells refuel in as little as three minutes and provide consistent performance with no power degradation until depletion like an internal combustion engine, but they produce zero harmful emissions and offer the maintenance-friendly attributes of electric power. Lead-acid batteries produce no emissions while in operation, helping facilities meet standards for air quality or sustainability goals. The maturity of this electric technology helps provide a lower up-front cost to take advantage of the benefits of electric power. EPA-certified internal combustion engine (ICE) trucks from Yale provide exceptional durability and consistent power delivery, even in demanding, high-capacity applications. The full range of Yale® ICE-powered lift trucks have the necessary EPA and CARB emission certifications and are available to be ordered. “As the growing trend towards lift truck electrification gains even more momentum, Yale is at the forefront, providing a full set of choices that empower operations to help them get the best results for their business,” says Brad Long, Brand Marketing Manager, Yale Materials Handling Corporation. “Our goal is to make it easier for customers to shift their fleet to electric when the time is right for their business, while also providing a reliable, fully emissions-certified complement of ICE-powered trucks to fit the diverse needs of material handling operations.” This robust range of options provides operations with the freedom to make a lift truck power source decision based on their business and sustainability parameters, instead of constraints like limited power options or availability of power sources only on a limited range of forklift models. Power experts from Yale guide businesses through a consultative process to help make the right lift truck power choice for their operation based on requirements for emissions, labor, cost, maintenance, space, and more. The awards represent Yale’s 10th time being named a Green Supply Chain Partner and seventh time as a Top Green Provider. Yale has been engineering and manufacturing electric lift trucks for decades, with over 20 green award wins from these logistics industry publications and others.

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Port of Long Beach increases Green Ship Incentive

Wed, 26 May 2021 17:18:04 +0000

Offers the highest bonus in the world to attract cleaner ships Ocean carriers bringing the greenest ships to the Port of Long Beach can earn the world’s most generous sustainable vessel financial incentives, beginning July 1, 2021. The Long Beach Board of Harbor Commissioners earlier this month approved changes centered around incorporating the international Environmental Ship Index (ESI) into the Port’s Green Ship Incentive Program, which began in 2012. A voluntary system, the ESI identifies seagoing ships exceeding the current emission standards of the International Maritime Organization. The Green Ship Incentive Program has helped improve air quality, encouraging shipping lines to send their newest, cleanest oceangoing vessels to the Port of Long Beach. More than $1.7 million in incentives were paid to participants in 2020. “Our goal is to increase participation in the already successful Green Ship Program by aligning it with international sustainable maritime transportation efforts,” said Harbor Commission president Frank Colonna. “These incentives are the largest offered to vessels and Tier III ships of any seaport, and we expect the update will have positive impacts in Long Beach and around the globe.” Port of Long Beach Executive Director Mario Cordero noted more than 50 ports worldwide and more than 8,000 vessels participate in the Environmental Ship Index. “This change and offer of financial rewards gives operators even more reasons to be socially responsible and make investments in cleaner fuels, ship modifications, or onboard technologies that improve air quality beyond required standards,” said Cordero. The updated program includes three incentive levels ranging from $600 to $6,000, depending on a vessel’s ESI score. Vessels with main engines meeting International Maritime Organization’s Tier III standard, which requires dedicated NOx emission control technologies, are eligible for an additional $3,000 credit, meaning a vessel could be eligible for up to $9,000 on every call. Read the fact sheet on the program updates.

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Smartrac Gets “Gold Medal” for its Corporate Social Responsibility achievements

Wed, 17 Jul 2019 13:55:05 +0000

Smartrac, a global provider in RFID technology and IoT solutions, has been awarded a gold medal from EcoVadis, the world’s most trusted provider of business sustainability ratings, in recognition of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) achievements. Having received a high score, Smartrac ranks among the top five percent of all companies in its category, as assessed by EcoVadis. Smartrac has undergone EcoVadis’ CSR assessments on an annual basis since 2014. Just one year later, the company achieved a bronze award, before stepping up to silver in 2016, and has continuously improved its sustainability performance since then. In this year’s report, Smartrac scored particularly well in the “Ethics” category, followed by “Environment” and “Labor & Human Rights.” “With more and more companies putting emphasis on CSR achievements, efforts in that area make as much sense business-wise as they do from an ethical point of view. Hence, we are very happy and proud to have been awarded a gold medal and achieved a score that puts us at the top of our industry. We consider EcoVadis’ rating as equally important as, for example, the ARC Quality Certification we received recently. Both provide superior assurance to our customers and market partners and reinforce our claim to be the RFID industry leader in quality, sustainability and safeguarding employees’ rights,” said Dr. Benedict Saint André, SVP Corporate Legal & Compliance at Smartrac. Smartrac defines CSR as an organization’s responsibility for the impact of its activities on society and the environment, and for acting to maximize the creation of shared value for all its stakeholders while mitigating possible adverse effects. In addition, Smartrac is an endorser of the UN Global Compact, meaning that it commits itself to actively promoting and respecting the 10 UN principles on human rights, labor standards, environment and anti-corruption within the company and in relation to external stakeholders.

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