When products such as vaccines and perishable food items are being shipped it is essential that they be sufficiently refrigerated in transport, this method of storage and delivery is referred to as a "cold chain". One challenge industries are faced with is being able to carry out this process in such a way that it is less destructive to the environment. The right choices in packaging, minimization of wastes, and disposal all make a difference in establishing a sustainable cold chain.
Cold chain packaging needs to safeguard the products contained within it, preventing damage from force, the elements, etc., and also be made and used in a way that is "eco-friendly". There are different ways in which this can be accomplished; using packaging which is made from sustainable materials, is biodegradable or reusable, and consists of less rather than more, as this calls for fewer transport and resource needs.
The best way for packaging companies to get a clear picture of how their shipping methods measure up in terms of the carbon footprint they produce is to hire the services of an organization which specializes in this area. These experts will do a comprehensive analysis of the packaging life-cycle used and point out any improvements needed.
Eliminating waste is one useful tactic for increasing the sustainability of the cold chain shipment system. Minimizing the amount of packaging materials not only means that fewer raw materials are required, but also that it can optimize every delivery allowing more to be shipped in one load.
Whenever practical, reusable forms of packaging can make a shipping process more conscious of the environment. If packages are able to be cleaned and returned to the supplier following delivery, this can ultimately save money and resources. Although at first it is necessary to invest into developing materials suitable for this purpose which are durable and able to withstand re-use, eventually this venture will pay off money-wise and eco-wise.
Recycling plays an integral part in creating a "green" cold chain shipment system as well. When packaging is manufactured from recovered materials, it consumes less energy than it does to make it out of raw materials that must first be refined and processed. This cuts down on space occupied in landfills, and results in lower production of greenhouse gases.
Sometimes landfill disposal is inevitable, in which case it is necessary to select only those packaging types which do less harm to the soil and groundwater. One type of material which fits this criteria is expanded polystyrene, it doesn't break down to produce methane or other harmful substances and it aerates the soil, encouraging plant growth.
Cold chain packaging needs to safeguard the products contained within it, preventing damage from force, the elements, etc., and also be made and used in a way that is "eco-friendly". There are different ways in which this can be accomplished; using packaging which is made from sustainable materials, is biodegradable or reusable, and consists of less rather than more, as this calls for fewer transport and resource needs.
The best way for packaging companies to get a clear picture of how their shipping methods measure up in terms of the carbon footprint they produce is to hire the services of an organization which specializes in this area. These experts will do a comprehensive analysis of the packaging life-cycle used and point out any improvements needed.
Eliminating waste is one useful tactic for increasing the sustainability of the cold chain shipment system. Minimizing the amount of packaging materials not only means that fewer raw materials are required, but also that it can optimize every delivery allowing more to be shipped in one load.
Whenever practical, reusable forms of packaging can make a shipping process more conscious of the environment. If packages are able to be cleaned and returned to the supplier following delivery, this can ultimately save money and resources. Although at first it is necessary to invest into developing materials suitable for this purpose which are durable and able to withstand re-use, eventually this venture will pay off money-wise and eco-wise.
Recycling plays an integral part in creating a "green" cold chain shipment system as well. When packaging is manufactured from recovered materials, it consumes less energy than it does to make it out of raw materials that must first be refined and processed. This cuts down on space occupied in landfills, and results in lower production of greenhouse gases.
Sometimes landfill disposal is inevitable, in which case it is necessary to select only those packaging types which do less harm to the soil and groundwater. One type of material which fits this criteria is expanded polystyrene, it doesn't break down to produce methane or other harmful substances and it aerates the soil, encouraging plant growth.
About the Author:
Cindy H. Cassidy has worked nearly every position in both the back and front of the restaurant over the past 16 years. Currently as a project manager, she oversees the opening of new restaurants. If you would like to read more on Imbera VFS 24 Glass Front Door Commercial Beverage Coolers she suggests you visit her friends at Imbera: Commercial Coolers, Refrigerators, Freezers USA.
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