Due to the level of waste generated the food industry is in the spotlight. Consumers are more eco-conscious than ever and are very aware of their food and beverage choices. This has created a demand for food manufacturing and processing organisations that prioritise sustainable practices in every part of their supply chain.
The focus has steadily changed from recycling to conserving our planet’s resources as much as possible. We can no longer continue in the world model of thinking which is to take, make and dispose of the rest.
What Role Does Food Manufacturing Play in Environmental Challenges?
Food manufacturing, processing, and packaging are some of the industries with the highest amount of wastage. Many discarded products and food can be brought back into the supply chain with collaborating organisations or by implementing efficient processes within an organisation.
By prioritising sustainability and doing the right thing for the environment, food manufacturing organisations will grow their brand awareness and trust with customers. Although we all know implementing sustainable practices is not easy.
What is a Circular Economy?
True sustainability is circular. Resources are recovered at the highest possible quality, reused, and kept in the supply chain for as long as possible. This approach to managing resources is called a circular economy.
The circular economy can be applied to everything from food manufacturing, processing, and packaging. When implemented this process cuts waste, is efficient, adds lasting value to your organisation and gives products competitive advantages.
International Standards Supporting a Circular Economy
International standards provide essential support to organisations in implementing best practices and management systems. By having these systems in place organisations within the food manufacturing, processing and packaging sector are able to implement circular economy practises easier across an organisation.
So how can your organisation contribute towards the circular economy?
ISO 14001:2015 Environmental Management System
If your organisation, like many others in the food manufacturing sector, have implemented an ISO 14001:2015 Environmental Management System you are in a very good position to start implementing circular economy processes taking clause 6.1.2 Environmental aspects into account. An EMS helps organisations identify and manage their environmental impacts, including waste reduction and resource efficiency.
Specifically, an ISO 14001:2015 EMS supports circular economy principles by:
- The efficient use of resources and energy.
- Reduced waste generation, recycling, and re-use practices.
- Ensures continuous improvement in environmental performance.
ISO 50001:2015 Energy Management System
Another international standard that provides a solid foundation for a circular economy is an ISO 50001:2015 Energy Management System. An EnMS is better positioned to align you with circular economy principles such as energy responsibility, food manufacturing innovation and stewardship.
The standard also optimises energy usage and supports circular practices through:
- Implementing energy-saving measures and technologies.
- Identifies opportunities for energy efficiency improvements.
- Energy resources are used responsibly and efficiently.
ISO 22000:2018 Food Safety Management System
An ISO 22000:2018 Food Management System ensures your organisation puts systems in place that support food production and ensure customer satisfaction. An FSMS ensures that wastage is cut to a minimum and that all processes focus on quality instead of just producing for the sake.
- Reducing food waste through management and production processes.
- Ensures high standards of quality food manufacturing.
- Integration of sustainability best practices into food safety management.
What Benefits Would Food Manufacturing Organisations See?
Moving forward means moving circularly. Despite the challenges organisations will face in implementing circular economy processes the benefits you will receive include:
- Increased brand reputation
- Enhanced stakeholder relationships
- Reduced use of material
- Lower energy costs
- Development of new resources
- Mitigating risks involved with fluctuating resources.
Work Towards a Circular Economy With WWISE
Our expert facilitators have been able to record various training programs that are available on our eLearning platform. We provide training for various ISO systems including the standard mentioned above:
- ISO 14001:2015 Environmental Management System
- ISO 50001:2015 Energy Management System
- ISO 2200:2018 Food Safety Management System
Our online courses put the power to train your delegates and team members on the palm of your hand.
Have any questions about how our training programs set you up for success? Give us a call on 012 644 0142 or email us at admin@wwise.co.za today.