Pallets (wooden, plastic, metal) - Adopt a Sustainable Approach

Cost
LOW
Cost
MEDIUM
Cost
HIGH
EFFORT
low
EFFORT
medium
EFFORT
HIGH
IMPACT
low
IMPACT
MEDIUM
IMPACT
HIGH

Upstream:

  • Use wooden pallet with lighter wood (make sure it still fits load capacity requirements)
  • Use returnable pallets (typically plastic) - highly suitable for local and regular partners. More complicated for overseas operations but still possible.

Downstream:

  • Resell/Return excess of pallets to second-hand pallet suppliers
  • Contact neighbouring facilities to exchange pallets if possible
  • Send broken pallets to recycling

2 billion

The number of pallets in circulation in the US with a majority of them replaced each year.
(Circular Supply Chain Inc.)

50%

Of the US annual hardwood harvest is used to produce new pallets.
(Circular Supply Chain Inc.)