Carbon Footprint
This is how MLA is reducing the carbon footprint in our supply chain.
Increase efficiency and reduce waste
Reducing waste is a priority and the top way to reduce waste within our supply chain is to see where our processes can be more efficient.
We buy whole hides from which we cut pieces for pouches and belts. We try to use every part of the hide and target our clicker press operators on waste reduction. Small amounts of waste are used for belt keepers, prison officer's key chain holders and strap fasteners.
Ensure transparency and communication between partners
We recognise that everyone needs to be on the same page to create a more environmentally friendly business model. When MLA embarked on a new green initiative, everyone in our supply chain was aware of our goals and how they could help us achieve them.
We know that ensuring effective lines of communication is essential for business success, but even more so when it comes to sustainability, as this can avoid mistakes resulting in excess waste.
Find like-minded suppliers
It can be challenging to reduce your carbon footprint without the support of the other businesses in your supply chain, so it may be worth considering which suppliers you continue to use if they are resistant to change.
If you exclusively deal with suppliers who share your green initiative, this is more likely to spark change in other suppliers who want to do business with you. This could then spark change on a higher level than just your supply chain and positively affect your industry as a whole.
Set sustainability targets
Reviewing our wastage and emission-generating practices have given MLA a clearer picture of where our business needs to be more eco-friendly. This process has helped us keep sight of our goals, as the benefits of going green are hard to recognise daily.
Review and overhaul our logistics
We recognise the benefits of consolidating our supply chain to make it more efficient, as working with fewer suppliers means fewer deliveries and lower emissions.
We liaise with suppliers, review current logistics, and ask whether we have any deliveries that can be combined, if it's plausible to order more stock in one go and receive deliveries less often and whether you can switch suppliers on certain products to reduce the number of deliveries.
Planning and adaptability
We are proactive in doing business; reducing your carbon footprint can make it hard. Planning whilst adapting to change is the best approach to a greener supply chain.
Working with our suppliers on a sales forecast for our business helps to reduce waste and decrease lead times. Plus, by planning and asking if there are other sustainable materials we can use in times of shortage, we can run our business more smoothly all year round whilst being sustainable