Supply chain solutions company CHEP rents out and reuses 345-million wooden pallets used in the transportation of goods, which reduce costs and minimise environmental impact.
The reuse model makes business sense, says CHEP South Africa customer relationship manager Celeste Enoch.
Food and beverage company Clover has realised significant advantages since partnering with CHEP, including reducing its carbon dioxide emissions by 56%, its wood usae by 71% and its waste by 59%, which is equivalent to saving 2 666 trees a year, driving a truck around the globe 17 times and cutting waste by 69 truck loads, Clover Distribution GM Tony Roderigues points out.
“Compared to single-use pallets of non-standard sizes and quality, CHEP’s pallets and platforms have improved efficiency for us, and they give us the reassurance that we are minimising the environmental impact of our operations,” he said.
“The partnership with Clover is a clear indication that sustainability can enable growth and competitiveness. It improves their supply chains, reduces overall costs and improves operational efficiencies,” says Enoch.
CHEP also plants two trees for every tree it uses to manufacture its wooden pallets, she says.