Specifying locally produced materials and products offers both economic and environmental advantages. Use of locally made products and materials minimizes transportation and shipping costs, as well as reducing the amount of energy used in transportation and any pollution that may result. In regard to natural resources – timber or stone, for example – locally sourced products can be better suited to a particular region’s climate and conditions. Further, choosing locally made products supports regional economies and local producers.
Packaging is reduced
The aim is to reduce the amount of packaging required to effectively house and transport products and materials, resulting in less waste material destined for landfill, lower manufacturing costs for producers, and reduced transportation costs. Some manufacturers implement returnable packaging systems or heavily in recyclable packaging. Paper, glass, metal and board packaging can be readily recycled.
Low embodied energy
Embodied energy refers to the energy consumed in producing and distributing products and materials. This spans the extraction of resources, processing and manufacturing, and distribution of the final product. Products and materials with low embodied energy generally require simpler manufacturing processes – for example, natural resources such as timber require less processing than aluminium and other metals. Specifying products with low embodied energy can reduce pollution, depletion of resources and degradation of the environment.
Low embodied water
Like embodied energy, embodied water is the water used to create and distribute a product or material (as distinct from water used during its operation). Reducing the amount of embodied water in a product’s manufacture and distribution can lessen its impact on the environment.
Reduces waste or pollution
Streamlined production processes can reduce the environmental impact of manufacturing. Environmentally responsible manufacturers focus upon reducing emissions, minimizing waste created during production, and ensuring energy-efficient operation. Waste-reducing production can also reduce costs, as manufacturers can make better use of resources.
Chelmstone was established in 1991. The company mission statement is to supply concrete paving and accessories with the flexibility to produce mixed design to specification and the ability to manufacture custom sizes... More...