The post 7 Ways to Make Your Warehouse More Sustainable appeared first on UK Construction Blog.

With an increasingly environmentally conscious world, you may be wondering how your warehouse can adapt to this growing trend. Sustainable operations are about much more than just recycling cardboard and turning off unnecessary lights. From reducing your overall carbon footprint to finding new ways of working which save you money and increase efficiency, sustainable operations make commercial sense as well as being better for the environment – and who doesn’t want to make more money? It’s a triple win, and it doesn’t take much.

Sustainability in a warehouse context is something which needs to consider energy efficiency, waste reduction and resource management. Making your warehouse more eco-friendly may appear to be a mammoth task initially, but with a clear set of practical steps you’ll be well on your way to making a noticeable positive difference to the environment – however big or small those initial changes may be.

And it doesn’t have to disrupt your day-to-day operations either. Far from it – it can improve workflows and make your staff feel part of a greater good, as well as reinforcing your brand to increasingly environmentally conscious customers. Join many other forward-thinking leaders who are making sustainability integral to their logistics and discover how your warehouse can go green.

Renewable Energy Adoption

Switching to renewable energy sources makes environmental sense but equally it’s a smart move for cutting warehouse running costs.

Solar Power Solutions

Solar power is an economical and eco-friendly choice for warehouses. Installing solar panels for warehouses can capture solar energy and convert it into electricity, substantially reducing your electricity bill in the process. Most warehouses enjoy expansive unused roof space which is perfect for solar panels. You’ll need to invest in solar panels which fit your warehouse layout and energy demands – check out prices and offers on Business-Solar.com for some competitive deals. Note that the initial outlay can be recouped many times over in subsequent savings, plus there may be tax benefits.

Wind Energy Utilisation

Alternatively, wind energy can provide a useful renewable source of energy if appropriate infrastructure is installed. Depending on the local climate of your warehouse location, small scale wind turbines may be an option. These can be erected on otherwise unused land surrounding the warehouse, or if the building is suitable, on the roof or walls. The turbines generate electricity which can either be used on-site to power warehouse activity or exported to the grid for use elsewhere. Check the local wind conditions before committing to this kind of investment as it can yield excellent returns in the right location.

Waste Reduction Strategies

Waste management is another essential element to operating a sustainable warehouse. There are two key areas to focus on for maximum environmental and financial benefit – recycling and upcycling.

Recycling Initiatives

First off, take stock of what kinds of waste are produced in your warehouse. You should be able to classify most of it into several categories:

• Paper and cardboard
• Plastics
• Metals
• Electronics

With your waste classified, set up bins and signage around your warehouse so staff know what can be recycled and what can’t. Many local authorities have recycling programmes which will collect the segregated waste for appropriate disposal. Invest in a baler or compactor for cardboard and plastics as these will reduce storage volume and can be sold on to recycling companies for extra warehouse revenue.

Upcycling Opportunities

Upcycling refers to the conversion of waste materials, or products perceived to be useless, into new materials or products of better quality or higher value to the environment. Examples of upcycling practises in your warehouse include:

• Wooden pallets can be made into furniture or garden sheds.
• Old uniforms can be cut into rags for cleaning or for insulation.
• Any damaged goods which don’t present a safety risk can be donated to local arts programmes or schools for use in projects.

By actively looking for upcycling opportunities throughout your warehouse, you’ll be able to reduce waste and contribute to local community programmes – you may even discover new revenue streams.

Eco-friendly Material Handling

Sustainable operations in your warehouse’s transport and handling activities are better for the environment and your bottom line via less waste and greater efficiency.

Biodegradable Packing

When considering packing materials, think about those which decompose easily without causing environmental damage. Consider the following more eco-friendly options:

• Cardboard: Typically derived from recycled paper, it’s easily recyclable and biodegradable.
• Cornstarch Packaging: A completely biodegradable plastic substitute which is perfect for cushioning items.
• Air Pillows: Made from recycled materials, they’re reusable and offer great protective qualities.
• Paper Fill: A totally recyclable and biodegradable alternative to plastic box fill.

These materials will greatly reduce your warehouse’s carbon footprint as they naturally decompose without causing lasting environmental harm.

Electric Forklift Use

Changing to electrically powered forklifts can have a huge positive impact on the environment. Why?

• Zero Emissions: No nasty gases are emitted when recharging, so they’re better for your staff and the environment.
• Energy Efficient: Electric forklifts require less energy than their gas-powered counterparts.
• Lower Noise Levels: They’re much quieter than traditional gas-powered forklifts.
• Long-term Savings: The initial outlay may be greater, but they’re cheaper to run and maintain.

By investing in electric forklifts, you’ll be going down the path of sustainable warehousing while cutting operating costs at the same time.

Water Conservation Techniques

Rainwater Harvesting

Rainwater harvesting involves collecting a little piece of the sky every time it rains. By establishing a rainwater collection system, you can conserve potable water by using the collected rainwater for other purposes. Here’s how to do it:

1. Install Gutters and Downspouts: Fix these to your warehouse roof to collect the water and channel it down.
2. Storage Tanks: Place these under the outflow of the gutters to hold the collected rainwater. Use strong durable containers which are covered to prevent debris and mosquito breeding.
3. Filtration: Add a filtration process to the collection system to make the water clean and suitable for non-drinking uses such as watering plants or flushing toilets.

Every drop of water you save makes a difference to the bigger picture.

Efficient Plumbing Systems

Investing in efficient plumbing can save vast amounts of water – think of it as doing your bit for the bigger picture. Here’s where you can start:

• Low-Flow Fixtures: Installing faucets and toilets with low-flow technology dramatically reduces water waste.
• Leak Detection: Regularly check for leaks and repair them promptly to avoid water loss.
• Water-Saving Appliances: Opt for appliances certified by the Environmental Protection Agency’s WaterSense program.

With these systems, you’re not just saving water; you’re setting an example for responsible resource management.