ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
ISO 14001 provides a solid framework from which to identify both 3663 ’s negative environmental impacts and the positive impacts that may be overshadowed.
In basic terms, 3663's activities revolve around the storage of food and non-food products and the subsequent distribution to the catering trade. Each site within the scope of the EMS holds, within their EMS Manual, a Register of Significant Environmental Aspects and Impacts.
PACKAGING
All products are packaged, some with secondary and tertiary packaging. Packaging can have an impact on the environment from many aspects: from sourcing & specifying packaging types to the final point of disposal
WASTE
Packaging waste is the most significant waste stream and is managed centrally, see Recycling strategy. Recent changes to legislation in term of Hazardous Waste and Animal By Products have sought to reduce the environmental impact of these waste streams, which are again managed centrally. Other waste streams such as fluorescent tubes, office paper, printer cartridges, etc are managed locally.
(Link to Animal By-Product recycling poster)
FUEL STORAGE & USE
The majority of our depots have diesel tanks on site to refuel the fleet. All precautions are taken to minimise the risk of pollution - spill kits are located at all storage areas, comprehensive emergency response training is delivered to appropriate personnel and periodically tested.
TRANSPORT
3663 recognises that its 1,000 strong fleet does pollute the atmosphere and contributes to the greenhouse effect. It is recognition of this vital impact on the environment that has driven a dedicated Fleet Services Department to implement innovative initiatives to minimise where possible those impacts see Transport
ENERGY & RESOURCE USE
From refrigeration, lighting, heating operating equipment to water use for washing vehicles. see Building programme.
AUDIT PROGRAMME
Compliance with all elements of the ISO 14001 standard and relevant environmental legislation is monitored and maintained through the rigorous internal audit process.
A team of Regional Sustainability Co-ordinators conduct a series of audit modules throughout the duration of the annual audit schedule, January to September.
Each Regional Sustainability Co-ordinator is responsible for auditing approximately 3-4 sites, preparing a report and offering advice and guidance to share Best Practice and enable corrective actions to completed. A 2 day competence training programme ensures that all Coordinators are equipped with the skills and knowledge to participate in the internal audit programme effectively.
Surveillance audits are conducted by our external independent auditors, SGS, on an annual basis. Every year, a representative sample of the business is selected for audit – typically this is approximately 20 sites. |
