Every year, 19-23 million tonnes of plastic waste leaks into our lakes, rivers, and seas. It harms wildlife, soil, and water, and it directly affects people’s livelihoods, food production, and social wellbeing.
The price we pay for plastic pollution is high – literally. According to the United Nations Environment Programme, the social and economic costs of plastic pollution ranges between $300 billion and $600 billion every year.
This year’s World Environment Day focuses on ending plastic pollution – specifically reducing our plastic consumption, improving recycling systems, and promoting sustainable alternatives. Everyone has a part to play in driving these solutions and reducing waste – including our business.
How Westcon-Comstor is making a difference
Here’s what we’re doing to #BeatPlasticPollution:
Recycling plastics in our warehouse and offices: Last year, we sent over 4.3 tonnes of plastic for recycling from facilities in EMEA and ANZ
Recycling bins in offices: Our teams are encouraged to recycle plastics they use, cleaned and dried to avoid contamination
Reducing single-use plastics in the workplace: We installed filtered water systems in our UAE office, removing the need for bottle-based dispensers. We also equip meeting rooms with glasses and reusable bottles
Recycling pallet wrap, shrink wrap, and plastic: In the UK, all low-density polyethylene plastic is collected, cleaned, shredded, and reused as granules for making new products
Why this matters
By making these practical changes, we help cut down on plastic that ends up in landfills and waterways. But recycling isn’t just good for the planet; it’s good for our business, too. It shows partners that we care about sustainability, helps our teams take pride in what we do, and even keeps our workspaces tidy!
Looking ahead as a Responsible Business, we will continue to prioritise sustainability, inspire change, and work towards a cleaner, healthier planet.
Want to know more about how we're protecting our planet?
