Procurement case study: Bridgend’s innovative cleaning approach

Historically, cleaning products have been packaged in large, single-use plastic containers, which contribute significantly to plastic waste. The local authority aimed to reduce its carbon footprint and meet local sustainability targets, finding a solution through the Welsh Government Commercial Delivery (WGCD) cleaning materials and washroom services framework.

Issues identified

• Excess Plastic Waste: Traditional cleaning products come in hard plastic bottles, contributing to a growing problem of single-use plastic waste.
• Environmental Impact: Excess plastic packaging contributes to landfill waste and increases the carbon footprint of the cleaning products supplied.
• Limited Options: Few viable alternatives to plastic packaging for cleaning supplies were available in the local market.

Solution

Through the WGCD framework, BCBC transitioned to an innovative and eco-friendly solution: cleaning products in biodegradable sachets.

BCBC were able to source highly concentrated formulas requiring smaller packaging sizes. This approach reduced plastic waste and made storage and transportation more efficient.

The local authority launched a pilot programme in select council buildings, school, and facilities to evaluate the feasibility of switching to sachets. The successful trial paved the way for a broader rollout of sachets across the council.

Benefits achieved

• Plastic Waste Reduction: The project resulted in a reduction of plastic waste by 900kg, equivalent to the weight of three adult grizzly bears.
• Waste Management Efficiency: The reduced weight and volume of packaging has streamlined waste disposal and recycling processes, and reduced transportation-related emissions.
• Financial Savings: Cost savings in product procurement and waste disposal, and operational efficiencies due to smaller sachet sizes requiring less storage space.
• Positive Public Perception: The initiative has been well-receiving by staff and members of the public, improving BCBC’s reputation as a responsible and forward-thinking local authority

This initiative serves as an example of how procurement can help businesses and local authorities work together to reduce plastic waste and promote sustainability.

I am extremely pleased with the results of this exercise and that we are the first local authority in Wales to fully adopt these sustainable cleaning methods within our department.

Joanne Thomas, Facilities Manager.

Date: December 2024

For further information, please contact commercialprocurement.peoplecorporate@gov.wales