Environment Pledge

November 16, 2021

The paper alternative to Bubble Wrap 

As you may be aware the push to reduce plastic waste has been top of the agenda within the UK government for some time. There have been a number of major steps taken including the ban of certain plastics. The government are working towards preventing all avoidable plastic waste by the end of 2042 and the introduction of plastic packaging tax by the end of 2022, encourages a greater use of recycled plastic leading to increased levels of recycling and plastic waste collection. With this in mind, Isaac Lord have taken steps to reduce the use of plastic.

Due to an increased level of growth within the online sector of the business, with around 85% of orders made online and via telephone, these rely solely on the dispatch of goods from our depot. Because of the high volume of orders daily, it is integral that our operation is streamlined, ensuring products are delivered not only in a timely and cost-effective manner, but also of the highest quality when they arrive at their destination. Therefore, sourcing sustainable packaging that reflects our companies core values is of upmost importance, beneficial for the business and environmentally.

Isaac Lord have made significant changes by investing in a high-quality packaging system and packaging alike, to contribute to minimizing the impact we have to the environment. We have sourced this from ProTega, a company that design and manufacture their systems in the UK. 

We have now switched to using a strong recycled paper that is 100 percent recyclable, biodegradable and compostable. The paper is highly durable due to creases and crimples that enhance its strength and can be used with any product types. The paper is sourced from sustainable forests that are carefully managed and FSC certified. The unique pre-folded design makes their rolls smaller, lighter and easier to handle than traditional rolls. Therefore, complying with the HSE’s recommended safe lifting weight at elbow height.   

Hexcel packaging has been a game changer allowing us to remove the use of bubble wrap. It starts out as a flat sheet becoming three dimensional, simply by stretching it. It is both robust and easily mouldable, securing and cushioning products, absorbing shock and eliminating movement in transit. Hexcel is dispensed from a small device that can be kept anywhere without the requirement for electricity.  This method reduces pack times by up to 50% as there is no need for adhesive tape. This makes it easier for customers when unwrapping their products. It is 100% recyclable and biodegradable, and owing to its compact size has a negligible carbon footprint compared to bubble wrap. 

Self Adhesive paper Tape removes the need for use of typical plastic tapes. The tape is 100% biodegradable and recyclable. The glue consists of a natural rubber-based adhesive which is suitable for use in environments as low as -40 degrees. Crucially, the paper tape sticks to itself, which means it is just as flexible in use as plastic alternatives. This is available in a variety of sizes that fit to standard tape guns, so there is no need to invest in specific tape dispensers and great for those demanding applications.

We have found a solution to reduce the use of non-sustainable packaging where possible and we are continuously striving towards sustainable business practises.