UK-based self-adhesive label specialist Mercian Labels has implemented a £100,000 investment programme into its use and generation of energy, as part of the company’s commitment to environmental awareness.

The environment has been a long-standing commitment of Mercian Labels, which has implemented numerous initiatives and programmes in recent years. However, with a focus on continuous improvement as part of an overall aim to become a ‘world-class manufacturer’, Mercian Labels has continued to seek further ways to improve the company’s environmental performance and bottom line.

Its most recent developments have included the replacement of 28 traditional high level lights within the company’s production and warehousing areas, with 24-hour operation introduced, sensor activated low energy LED lighting. These lights only operate at full strength when a colleague is working in the area directly beneath them, reducing to 10% power use soon after the area is vacated before switching off completely after a further few minutes of inactivity within its field of use.

As a result of this change, Mercian Labels has projected that it is now on track to save around 43% in related energy costs, whilst also reducing its carbon footprint.

Further to this, Mercian Labels has invested in on-site energy generation, which has seen the installation of over 250 solar panels on the roof of its Plant Lane factory in Burntwood, Staffordshire. With the ability to generate over 98 megawatts of electricity each year, the new system aims to provide more than 15% of Mercian’s annual energy needs. Any surplus is being exported back to the National Grid, whilst simultaneously saving over 21 tonnes of related carbon emissions.

Mercian Labels managing director Dr Adrian Steele explained, ‘As part of our focus on the environment, we see these investments as a real win for everyone. As well as reducing our environmental impact, we are also reducing our operational costs, which is not only good for our business, but also benefits our customers and therefore their end users as well.’

Read Digital Labels & Packaging issue 3, 2023 for more on Mercian Labels and its use of continuous improvement in the pursuit of becoming a ‘world-class manufacturer’; register here to receive the magazine