JBT is a leading global technology solutions provider to the food and beverage processing industry, and its family of brands is committed to sustainability. The company has been implementing sustainability practices across its manufacturing facilities around the world, and the Proseal UK office is a prime example of how JBT is making improvements in its sustainability initiatives. In 2022, Proseal UK made a major stride in its sustainability performance and planning. The company, which has been widely recognized for its environmental performance for years, has taken the next step in becoming even more sustainable. This was made possible due to the expansion of the HSEQ (Health, Safety, Environment, and Quality) department, which allowed for more time and resources to be devoted to this critical aspect of the business.

Going Green: Proseal’s Dedication to Eco-Friendly Initiatives

For years, Proseal has been proud of its eco-friendly initiatives, including energy-saving measures such as LED lighting, energy-efficient compressed air nozzles, building insulation, an efficient air handling unit, and a 250kWp rooftop solar PV system. The company has performed very well in waste management, including recycling of major waste streams, the use of compactors to reduce the volume of waste and number of collections, a CNC coolant recycling system to reduce hazardous waste and wastewater and many more.

Setting the Bar High: Proseal UK’s Sustainability Road Map

Proseal UK has made a major effort to enhance its sustainability performance, with new initiatives aimed at promoting sustainability both within the company and local community. This included the creation of a Sustainability Road Map with measurable objectives for 2023 (Carbon Neutral Scope 1 and 2), 2030 (Net Zero) and 2050 (Net Positive/Negative). The company has been also conducting a Carbon Footprint Assessment to create baseline data, which will be used to implement further, more precise targets for reducing carbon emissions.

In order to deliver its sustainability ambitions Proseal UK has been on its journey to establish the Integrated Management System including ISO14001 certification and Circular Economy. This will be achieved by implementation of IQMS platform which will help to digitize most of the work processes, opening a gate to a paperless future.

Providing Sustainable Product That is Built to Last

Proseal’s design and supply chain have been recognized as having a strong environmental focus too. Over years Proseal UK has massively improved its products range. Their machines have been equipped with eSeal that is energy efficient due to reduction of air consumption normally associated with high tray sealing machinery. The company has developed hot rod technology which is highly efficient and innovative in tool heating. Proseal UK also works directly with clients and supports the use of sustainable packaging in food industry. By providing innovative products and responding to client’s requirements, their sustainable approach focuses on both sustainable operational excellence and meeting or exceeding client’s expectations. Supply chain and procurement on the other hand focus on the local suppliers to eliminate carbon emissions from transport whenever possible. Energy efficient and robust design, sustainable supply chain and close contact with the client allows circular economy to grow in strength and this is what Proseal UK aims at.

Proseal UK’s Senior Management Support for Sustainability

The company’s Waste Reduction and Recycling Strategy has been built on the waste management hierarchy with the overall goal of reducing its general waste volume by 5% by the end of 2023, compared to the first half of 2022. The company is also making further energy-saving initiatives, including an Energy Saving Week, and has set a goal of reducing its energy consumption by 5% by the end of 2023, compared to 2022.

To further promote sustainability, the company has made a major effort to engage its employees in sustainability initiatives, including the formation of a Sustainability Champion Council, which serves as a space for knowledge exchange and information provision. Plenty of time has been invested in a various event such as Plastic Free July Competitions, The Great Big Green Day, Litter Picking, Tree and Flower Planting, and Energy Saving Week initiatives etc. Proseal UK has also made communication and training a priority, offering face-to-face workshops, online resources and inviting external speakers. The senior management is fully on board with the sustainability agenda and providing support at the highest level of the organization.

Leading the Change for Sustainability: Proseal UK and the Future of Business

JBT’s commitment to sustainability is evident in the efforts of Proseal UK, which has made major strides towards sustainability in 2022 and continues to make efforts to reduce its carbon footprint, improve waste management, engage employees and wider community on their path to Net Zero. Sustainable development is a critical area that we all can impact on, and companies like Proseal UK are leading the way in making these positive changes. It is our hope that more companies will follow JBT and Proseal’s footsteps, and that we can all work together towards a more sustainable future.

By Adriana Zwolan, Health Safety Environment Coordinator at JBT Proseal UK