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Sustainability initiatives in the manufacturing industry remain crucial in the push for a better tomorrow. The impact supply chain and industrial sectors have had on our ecosystem is long documented. Today, energy consumption, lowering greenhouse gas emissions and reducing the carbon footprint of the manufacturing sector continues to weigh heavily on stakeholders.
As a result, many manufacturing operations in the U.S. are lowering their energy use through automation, implementing initiatives that optimize the use of natural resources and setting benchmarks that have a positive impact in reducing the environmental impact of manufacturing facilities.
Valpak is proud to be an industry leader in production processes that utilize sustainable practices to lower our environmental footprint. Valpak’s dedication to the environmental impact our manufacturing processes at the Valpak Manufacturing Center in St. Petersburg, Florida have on our community (and ecosystem) remains top of mind.
At our manufacturing plant, we regularly invest in clean and efficient processes through energy efficiency and environmental protection. The 470,000 square-foot facility showcases some of the world’s most advanced, automation systems for printing, packaging and distribution.
To run the facility in an environmentally responsible manner and reduce operating costs, we invested in manufacturing practices that employ state-of-the-art systems and equipment engineering for energy efficiency. In addition, many of the raw materials used at the facility are recycled through a myriad of built-in waste management systems.
Valpak selects material suppliers with business models committed to producing sustainable products and services. We partner with companies that embrace green initiatives — often working with suppliers that exceed industry standards — that share our commitment to environmentally friendly business practices.
Highlights of the Product Design, Manufacturing Process and Construction Measures
Balancing the desire for the highest energy efficiencies possible with a focus on environmental responsibility remains an ongoing goal at Valpak. Here are some highlights of our dedication to environmentally friendly and sustainable manufacturing and printing processes.
Building the Valpak Manufacturing Center
- 100% recycled concrete was used in the slab base and the road base. In addition, excess concrete pilings from the foundation work were recycled for the same purpose.
- Sensors control lighting in central areas, turning off lights when the spaces are unoccupied.
- Ventilation system eliminates hot exhaust from work areas, which reduces cooling costs and noise levels.
- Central water-cooled system was custom modified to improve efficiency.
Equipment and Operational Efficiencies
- A Regenerative Thermal Oxidizer (RTO) is used to destroy the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that are discharged from the heat-set press. These units can achieve up to 95% thermal energy recovery.
- Printing presses use AC versus DC motors, which reduces operating costs and waste.
Waste Management & Recycling
- Consumers are encouraged to use the Valpak offers they need and recycle the remainder. Valpak envelopes feature the recycle Mobius loop and the words, “Valpak envelopes and offers are 100% recyclable.
- At our Valpak Manufacturing Center (VMC), all excess paper (trim, chip, press waste, etc.) is vacuumed to a central recycling area for recycling, and aluminum press plates are also recycled. Plastic transport totes, ink containers, boxes, and wooden pallets are all reused.
- Encourages employees to recycle office paper, cans, bottles, k-cups and batteries while at work with a formal recycling and collection program.
Responsible Paper Sourcing
- Materials supplied to Valpak are responsibly sourced from non-controversial sources. That means Valpak purchases its paper from suppliers committed to responsible forest stewardship where trees are planted, harvested, and then re-planted.
Environmental Advocacy
- Valpak works with its suppliers to identify vendor green practices and encourages the use of environmentally responsible practices and product enhancements.
- Valpak uses current best practices for environmentally friendly processes, including policies on mailing list management, providing easily accessible consumer opt-out methods, use of sustainable papers, maintaining an internal recycling program, etc.
Learn More
For many of the 41 million households Valpak mails to every month, environmental friendliness is a major concern. It is here at Valpak as well.
We remain committed to being as energy efficient as possible and continue looking for ways to reduce our carbon footprint in our manufacturing processes. Along with our high-quality recyclable print products, we also provide strategic and effective digital marketing. One of our most popular digital advertising options is placing a business listing on valpak.com, where your ads will reach local consumers looking for your products/services.
Visit valpak.com/sustainability if you have additional concerns or reach out to your local Valpak office.
