Bio-Health is a specialist healthcare manufacturer based in Kent, supplying top quality, additive free Herbal Medicines and Food supplements to Healthfood shops and Pharmacies. In early 2004 Bio-Health realised that 80% of all companies in Kent are SMEs. Recognising that if all SMEs contributed to environmental improvement in some way, much could be achieved, Bio-Health; also an SME, decided to implement small changes to everyday operating procedures to make a positive impact on climate change and the business community.
Incentives were introduced to encourage employees to develop ways to save, reuse and recycle within the organisation. Employees that transferred to a smaller environmentally friendly car were given an additional £1,000 per year. Shredding machines were purchased to shred warehouse and office paper, providing packing material for the dispatch department and removing the need for the alternative packaging material polystyrene pebbles. This change reduced packaging costs, reduced waste disposal and increased space in the warehouse as the pebbles were delivered in enormous boxes.
To further encourage resource efficiency and re-use, Bio-Health started a switch-off campaign, developed a garden compost, set up a rain water collection device and replaced water cooling dispensers for tap water. Further arrangements were made for recycled card and plastic to be sent to schools and local neighbours to re-use pallets. Resource investment saw the appointment of two employees to oversee and monitor gas electricity and water use and report levels. A newly built cycle shed encourages employees to cycle to work and free bicycles are provided to those who leave the car at home.
Reviewing and re-organising the company’s information system, Bio-Health reduced unnecessary on-site visits by company representatives and increased tele-sales. To engage customers and suppliers, a green policy document and questionnaire were circulated to both and suppliers were urged to comply. Local contracts were formed and preferences given to like-minded suppliers.
