Inspired Pet Nutrition (IPN), the family-run company behind pet food brands like Wagg, Harringtons, Barking Heads and Meowing Heads, has reached 100% food waste diversion with the help of its sustainability partner, Waste Mission. IPN notes this achievement marks a critical step in its commitment to reducing its environmental impact.
“Sustainability and waste reduction are crucial for our people, pets, and planet approach to ESG,” said James Lawson, IPN director. “Partnering with Waste Mission reflects our dedication to creating happiness for our pets, their owners, and the supply chain.”
Overcoming waste management challenges
IPN faced several waste management hurdles, including meat and fish juice on packaging, raw meat waste and general waste buildup. To address these, Waste Mission developed tailored solutions:
- Recycling meat and fish juice packaging. Specialized processes were introduced to recycle these materials, diverting them from landfills.
- Recycling 100% of raw meat waste. Innovative recycling methods ensured 100% recycling of raw meat waste.
- Introducing a 24-hour service level agreement (SLA) to ensure uninterrupted operations, which helped prevent operational disruptions and simplify daily communications.
“These challenges are not unique to IPN, but we wanted to show leadership in how we addressed them,” said Lawson. Through this partnership, IPN has achieved:
- 100% landfill diversion and recycling rate: All waste, including complex materials, is now recycled.
- Zero operational disruptions: A 24-hour waste collection service keeps production on track.
IPN was the first major UK pet food manufacturer to go carbon-negative in 2020. By maintaining its focus on sustainability, IPN aims to set an example for the pet food industry.
“We urge other pet food manufacturers to join us in prioritizing sustainability and waste reduction,” said Lawson. “High-quality pet food can be produced while adopting eco-friendly practices and meeting the growing needs of conscious consumers.”
Adapted from a press release.