How 4DM is trying to reduce its effect on the environment

Our ISO 14001 certification and environmental awareness help us analyse and reduce the impact a mailing campaign may have on the world around us.
Our FSC/PEFC Chain of Custody management has recently been audited by the governing body. Their report read:

“The Chain of Custody remains effective. Printed paper supplied from the Print Department evidences good control. Critical Control points are well managed, with competent staff aware of key issues. The detailed and effective Internal Audit process deserves special mention as it adds value and identifies risks within the system. An enthusiastic and diligent approach by the management team should be congratulated “.
In June 2008, working with The Carbon Trust, we replaced two old inefficient compressors in our Printing Department with a new, modern and efficient machine. In the winter the air expelled from its exhaust vents is recycled and directed back into the factory area as warm air. Heating the factory in this way has resulted in significant reductions in our energy costs. GRAPH 1 - Printing Department: Heating Gas Oil Consumed/ Ltrs
To increase our focus on environmental issues a further six employees have recently attended an EMS Internal Auditor training course and now have the necessary certification to perform such tasks.
A car sharing scheme has been launched.
All desk top printers have been replaced by smooth, quiet, low energy efficient models capable of printing both sides of the sheet. Energy and A4 paper savings will follow.
An intelligent lighting system was installed 12 months ago in our factory. Using energy efficient bulbs, during times of increased sunlight, sensors respond by powering down specific units, maintaining sufficient light and saving valuable energy. GRAPH 2 - Unit4 KWh 2008v2009
Old padding within enclosing machine side panels has been replaced with a high specification acoustic foam providing a significant reduction in noise pollution within the working environment.
A reduction in compressed air consumption by the installation of additional shut off taps has led to benefits within our airline feeder pipe network.
The replacement of noisy, energy draining compressor motors with high-tech vacuum/blow pumps inside our enclosing line engines has proved a positive step not only in reducing unnecessary heat and noise, but also contributing to energy savings across the factory. GRAPH 2 - Unit4 KWh 2008v2009
Our Printing Department’s VOC emissions have seen significant changes of late. Since converting our 6 colour iso-propanol fount solution to running an alcohol free mix, we have recorded significant reductions to emissions in that area. GRAPH 3 - VOC Emissions: 2008/2009
Recycling our waste efficiently remains a priority target for our company. Waste is continually separated into distinctive materials throughout our 24hour day operation before being routed for recycling . Be it milk bottles from the office or paper, card or wooden pallets in the factory , we manage a strong recycling ethos throughout the Group as we strive to reduce landfill wherever possible. GRAPH 4 - Pallets to Recycling / GRAPH 5 - Skips to landfill 2006-9
Two older paper enclosing lines have been replaced with a new efficient low power consumption model.
Our new Buhrs BB700 will increase running speeds but consume a third less electricity of its older compatriots.