Ibstock commits to 40% plastic reduction in four years

Brick maker Ibstock plc is committing to reduce its plastic use by 40% by 2025.

To help meet its target the company is seeking to remove at least 200 tonnes of plastic shrink wrap from across the Group by the end of 2021 – the equivalent of 8.3 million soft drinks bottles. Under the stewardship of its Plastic Taskforce, the group has introduced a number of initiatives. Following successful trials to reduce shrink wrap thickness by up to 30%, the programme has been rolled out across the Group’s manufacturing sites, which has had a significant impact on plastic consumption.

At the beginning of 2021, the company announced it was the first building products manufacturer to procure 100% of its electricity from renewable sources, accelerating its journey to net-zero. And across its estate, the organisation is careful to restore land once minerals have been extracted whilst paying due care and attention to the surrounding habitat through biodiversity action plans.

Joe Hudson, Chief Executive Officer of Ibstock plc, says: “We are committed to the world we leave for the next generation. The initiatives we have undertaken to date are a step forward in realising our Sustainability Roadmap ambitions whilst helping meet global climate targets. Engagement of our people at every stage is key to our success as it as it allows us to have a collaborative response to the challenges we face. As we work towards being the the most sustainable manufacturer of clay and concrete products we must show clear leadership and do all we can to drive change and reduce our impact on the natural world.”

Ibstock’s commitment aligns with the theme of Earth Day – Restore the Earth. Earth Day is the world’s largest environmental movement. Organised by EARTHDAY.ORG, its vision is to sectors accountable for their role in the environmental crisis while calling for bold, creative and innovative solutions from businesses through to national government.