Waste Management
Medtronic generated approximately 12,900 metric tonnes of non-regulated solid waste in fiscal year 2011, which accounted for approximately 90 percent of the company’s total waste generation. Together with the 94 metric tonnes of regulated waste this represents a total waste rate increase of approximately 5% as compared to FY2010, when normalized to revenue. The increase is attributed to world-wide reorganization activities involving both major distribution and manufacturing centers at Medtronic.
Spinal and Biologics Saves $1 Million through Sustainable Shipping
Switching from traditional shipping containers and materials to more sustainable options for our Infuse® Bone Graft product, the Spinal and Biologics business of Medtronic yielded financial savings in excess of $1 million a year.
By reducing shipper sizes, foam insulation and the number of pack configurations and gel packs required for cold chain shipments, Medtronic was also able to reduce the labor costs, energy requirements, and packaging waste associated with shipping this product.
According to Robin Turner, Director of Global Packaging Development at Spinal and Biologics, Medtronic is using similar techniques to ship additional temperature-sensitive items and exploring options with returnable packaging.