Responsible Sourcing
Pallas Foods are working with the Responsible Irish Fish Association to source fish which has been sourced in an environmentally responsible and sustainable manner. Members have introduced techniques to ensure that only larger fish are retained while smaller fish are released back into the sea sustaining stock levels. They also participate in a ‘clean the seas’ initiative whereby marine debris is collected and brought ashore.
Packaging
Sysco brand packaging is required to be manufactured using a minimum of 35% post consumer waste.
Recycling
Pallas Foods has implemented a company wide conservation and recycling programme both in warehouse operations and in the administrative function. Cardboard is retrieved from customer facilities at the point of delivery and is then returned to the Pallas Foods Depot where separated for recycling. All plastic and all organic waste is also segregated for recycling.
A recycling committee was established to identify areas where further conservation and recycling efforts could be initiated which resulted in the removal of paper cups from the staff canteens and the addition of several banks of recycling bins which separate paper, compost-able and recyclable materials.
Energy Conservation
A programme of education was initiated to reduce unnecessary energy consumption. Timers and sensors were applied on lighting throughout the warehouse, refrigerator and freezer efficiency was increased by reducing open access. Employees are also involved and are required to ensure computers and office lights must be full switched off when not in use.
Water treatment
Pallas Foods has a waste water treatment plant which filters water using a waste water treatment plant under the guidance of Bord na Mona, this system is a highly efficient bio-filtration system for the treatment of waste water effluent. Effluent distributed evenly over the bio-fibrous peat fibre percolates through the media, emerging as a clear innocuous liquid. The treatment of the effluent within the system is achieved by
a combination of unique physical,chemical and biological interactions between the waste water and the active specialised media through which it is filtered.
Logistics
At Pallas Foods we are continuously striving to improve on practices and achieve efficiencies in our process. A central part of this involves driving logistics efficiencies, reducing fuel consumption and minimising our impact on the environment.
Pallas Foods operate a modern 138 vehicle fleet which is equipped to achieve the highest standards of efficiency and food safety which contributes to our goal to reduce emissions and to minimise our impact on the environment.
We have a rigorous truck replacement policy requiring upgraded vehicle specifications
- Euro 5 engines – these engines are cleaner burning to ensure lower emissions
- Stop / start technology – to reduce engine idle time and conserve fuel
- Quieter and more efficient refrigeration systems
- Tyres that allow for second and third life usage
- Infra-red reverse cameras to increase public safety
- Software to train and monitor our drivers in best driving practices
Inbound and outbound efficiencies are integral to our logistics operating procedures. Our central distribution point in Newcastle West delivers consolidated orders to the seven regional distribution centres across the country which in turn break down the shipments and redistribute to our customers. Delivery routing is managed to ensure that empty running is minimised and optimises our vehicle usage.
We continue to research new methods of reducing our impact on the environment.
