Recycling Scheme Booklet 2022 - Flipbook - Page 6
REUSE
RECYCLE
Recycling is a commonly used word throughout society, however very few truly understand its
meaning and the process behind recycling different materials. Responsible recycling has been a
key focus for SMI since we started our sustainable journey. Since launching our textile recycling
scheme, we are having been exploring different methods we can offer our customers for their
remaining uniform and PPE including footwear, safety helmets, gloves, and other plastic related
items. Through extensive research we have gained a deeper understanding of what it truly means
to recycle, and truthfully for the time being not all PPE can be 100% recycled. More challenging
materials or products cannot be 100% recycled, however there are other ways to prolong a
products life cycle. Products can be donated, repurposed, and converted into Solid Recovered
Fuel (SRF) which is energy from waste products.
TRASH
A ‘throw-away’ culture in consumer behaviour has led to one of the worlds greatest environmental
challenges. Single use plastic is an increasing issue, placing more emphasis and priority on
reusing products across supply chains and in the workplace. SMI has replaced all single use eating
utensils to recycled bamboo or paper alternatives and encourage the reuse of any packaging at
our distribution centre.
REPURPOSE
Repurposing products is commonly known in the green community as upcycling, a popular
method which can extend a products lifecycle through creativity and innovation. We repurpose
cardboard boxes where possible, both at our Head Office for storage and at our Distribution
Centre. Suitable returned products are collated, stripped of branding, and repurposed within our
local communities as we donate to homeless charities.
5 | SMI WORKWEAR RECYCLING SCHEME | 2022
SMI WORKWEAR RECYCLING SCHEME | 2022 | 6