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BHL Phasing Out Single Use Plastics in Office

March 27, 2019

Beverage conglomerate, Banks Holdings Limited (BHL), is taking the first step towards reducing the waste in its operations by eliminating single use plastic and plastic-coated items in its corporate office.

Effective April 1, 2019, the company will significantly reduce the quantity of single use plastic cups, plastic cutlery and plastic-coated paper cups available in the office by 60 per cent. BHL is aiming to reduce the quantity of these materials available to staff by 90 percent by the end of 2019.

The transition to reusable materials in the office comes amid growing concern about the impact of plastics on the environment. Research from the United Nations shows that globally, the majority of litter in the world's oceans is made up of plastics. Additionally, there is strong evidence to show that the highest percentage of this plastic litter exists in coastal areas and reef environments, eventually interacting negatively with marine species.

Kelly-Ann Knight, Safety and Environment Coordinator, BHL, says the data is concerning, particularly for small island states like Barbados. She believes that the initiative is a positive move. “Although it is a small change, the gradual elimination of these materials in our offices will significantly reduce the quantity of waste we produce,” she said. “We are also working to strengthen our internal recycling programmes in order to have an even greater impact on the environment. We want to be a part of the solution for a sustainable and responsible future.”

Additionally, as part of activities for World Water Day on March 22, 2019, staff were also provided with reusable branded water bottles, and encouraged to utilize reusable containers and cutlery for their meals.

  

 


CAP #1: Members of the Safety and Environment team chatting during the distribution of reusable water bottles.