A must-read: ’Sustainability Management in Plastics Processing'

The British Plastics Federation (BPF) has published a book called Sustainability Management in Plastics Processing: Strategies, Targets, Techniques and Tools. Written by the plastic manufacturing expert Dr Robin Kent of Tangram Technology and supported by BPF Energy, the book covers all the main areas of a product’s lifecycle.

The book was written to fulfil a very tangible need, said Dr Kent.

“Despite all that is written about sustainability and plastics, there is still a lack of practical information for the plastics processor who wants to improve the sustainability of their business. This book aims to provide plastics processors with the knowledge and tools needed to improve their sustainability and to demonstrate this to the outside world. It shows that sustainability management is not ‘rocket science’, simply good management and engineering with an eye to the long-term effects of our actions,” he explained.

The book opens with a detailed introduction to sustainability management, and then goes on to explore how gains can be made by examining management systems, design, raw materials, manufacturing practices, energy use and water use. It also covers establishing a carbon footprint for both sites and products, minimising waste, the use and end-of-life phases for products, social responsibility, and reporting principles and standards.

As the author explains in his preface, ‘each topic is dealt with in a single 2-page spread…and most can be read independently of each other - this is not a cover-to-cover book’.

It is intended to provide practical guidance to plastics processors, providing them with the knowledge and tools to improve their overall sustainability by showing how improvements can be made in key areas. Spanning some 434 pages, written in clear and concise language, it is an accessible and practical reference book, a ‘fundamental manual’ as BPF Director General Philip Law, described it:  ‘so comprehensive in its sweep that its practical guidance will be referred to time and time again by companies in the plastics industry.’

Sustainability Management in Plastics Processing is available to buy now at Amazon.co.uk.