Green Label Coalition's Life Cycle Assessment!

ITV - About Green Label Coalition (GLC) Corporation 🔍

GLC is a group of paper price label companies servicing 1000s of retailers in North America.  The GLC consortium wanted a clear understanding, along with a scientific approach, how sustainable paper labels are versus other forms of signage in the retail environment. GLC’s objective is to share with retailers real research on the sustainability of paper ensuring the carbon footprint is as low as possible for each and every retail location over long periods of time.     

ITV - What motivated you to do an initial Life Cycle Analysis? Why did you choose Greenly? 🤔

The study sought to comprehensively evaluate the environmental impact of two primary labeling systems: traditional paper price labels and the electronic shelf labels (ESLs). Specifically, it aimed to scrutinize each stage of their life cycles, from raw material extraction to end-of-life disposal.

Driven by a pervasive industry narrative emphasizing sustainability through waste prevention, GLC embarked on the study to validate these claims. The increasing adoption of ESLs was seen as a potential solution to mitigate the environmental impact associated with frequent paper label changes.

What did you think of Greenly's support? 📊

Greenly's credibility and extensive collaboration with paper label-related companies made them the natural choice for this study. Their holistic approach and expertise in comparing the production processes and life cycles of paper labels and ESLs were instrumental in steering the research.

GLC particularly appreciated Greenly's commitment to conducting thorough research. Greenly organized a comprehensive study that delved into the intricacies of paper label production, including factors such as printer efficiency and the environmental implications of wireless router usage.

What were the Scopes & Boundaries of the Study? 🌱

The study's scope spanned the entire life cycle of both labeling systems, encompassing aspects from tree growth and carbon removal during paper production to the disposal processes of both paper labels and ESLs. A global perspective was adopted, acknowledging the international reach of the grocery industry and its significant carbon footprint.

Data collection drew from a combination of primary and proprietary sources. Paper label companies provided valuable insights into chemical composition, characteristics, and annual price change data, ensuring a robust foundation for comprehensive analysis.

What did the LCAs reveal? 📉

The study revealed a nuanced picture from a 30,000-foot perspective, demonstrating that the global production and transportation processes associated with ESLs resulted in a higher carbon footprint compared to the localized production of paper labels. Contrary to longstanding claims, ESLs were found to have a larger environmental impact.

The study's findings underscored the environmental benefits of paper labels over ESLs. GLC recommends a conscious evaluation of these findings within the retail sector, emphasizing the importance of adopting truly sustainable practices in labeling and display technologies.

What changes have you implemented? 🤔

Motivated by the study, GLC is committed to disseminating honest information within the retail industry. The goal is to foster a more transparent understanding of what genuinely constitutes eco-friendly practices, influencing decision-making across the sector.

The study has ignited a critical conversation about sustainability within the retail sector. It serves as a catalyst for reevaluating industry practices and committing to genuine environmental conservation efforts.

Closing Thoughts...

As of now, further implications and actions are under consideration. The study has opened the door to a more conscientious approach to sustainability in our operations.