Consumables

A Conversation with Brett Thompson, Director of Environmental Affairs for Laird Plastics

Friday 15. February 2013 - As the largest independent distributor of semi-finished plastic shapes and parts in North America, Laird Plastics recognizes the importance of sustainability — for the environment and for profitability.

In 2012, Laird became a gold level patron of the Sustainable Green Printing Partnership (SGP). Brett Thompson, Director of Environmental Affairs for Laird Plastics recently shared his story about Laird’s sustainability journey and the role that SGP plays in this endeavor.
SGP: When Laird’s sustainability journey begin? Was there a particular person, or event that served as a trigger?
Brett Thompson (BT): Our journey started in late 2006 and early 2007. Sales teams were receiving an increasing number of inquiries for ‘green’ alternatives to the products they were currently buying. By 2008, Laird’s Market Development Team realized we needed to address the issue head on, and formed an Environmental Steering Committee to develop future environmental strategies. In January 2009, Laird created a business unit (Laird Plastics Recycling- Environmental – Consulting or LP R E C) dedicated to plastic recycling and sustainable supply chain management.
SGP: Who championed the journey?
BT: It was truly a team effort. We recognized the value that our knowledge of plastics would have for our customers, as well as an opportunity to create competitive advantage for Laird. Back then, I worked as a sign and graphics Market Development Manager covering the Western United States. Based on the enormous amount of feedback received from the field, I put a concept together and presented it to Laird executives. Once we worked through the details and developed a workable model, Laird executives became the primary drivers, specifically Mark Kramer CEO, and Kevin Short, Western Regional Executive.
SGP: What was the original goal or objective(s)?
BT: Aside from profitability, there were two main objectives. First, to improve the public perception of plastics. We needed to educate our customers about the recyclability and sustainability of plastics. This would include conveying end user concerns upstream into our vendor base, while relaying manufacturing capabilities or limitations downstream. As a result, Laird emerged as a de-facto filter of sorts, sifting through erroneous manufacturing claims and greenwashing attempts that confused customers. The second objective was to develop an efficient infrastructure that could accommodate the recycling needs of 57 Laird locations and our customers. Potential channel partners had to have core values similar to those of Laird (hard work, continuous self improvement, empowerment, honesty and integrity), and a willingness to work together for mutual benefit, making the recycling process more transparent to the end user.
SGP: Did you reach your original goal? When?
BT: Three years into the project Laird Plastics is not only regarded as the industry leader, but a responsible corporate steward as well. Laird Plastics has received the 2009, 2011, and 2012 IAPD (International Association of Plastics Distributors) Award for Environmental Excellence – Best Overall Program, as well as the 2010 SGIA Environmental Award. And while we are proud of our achievements, we instinctively look to areas needing improvement.
SGP: What concerns you most about your sustainability journey today? Has your company set new goals? If so, what are they? If you’re still working on your original goals, what are you finding most challenging?
BT: In reality, this is a journey without end. We now know that raising public awareness and providing transparency to the process raises the bar for all. Future objectives will refine our methods and expand our reach. Our biggest challenge by far, will be to keep interest levels high to stave off environmental or recycling fatigue.
SGP: What do you hope your company will achieve next on its sustainability journey?
BT: I would like to think that the plastics community can come together and work on a cause that lifts all boats. We cannot hope to see societal behaviors change until we move the needle within our own industry.
SGP: How does SGP fit into your company’s sustainability journey?
BT: In truth, SGP and LP REC were created along parallel paths. Laird Plastics has worked with SGIA for years, and watched closely as SGP came to life. We feel that distribution and sustainable supply chain management is a natural extension of SGP’s mission, and we wanted our efforts to dovetail those of SGP. We also knew that Laird had to take a leadership role if suppliers and domestic manufacturing were to be part of the equation.
SGP: How has your organization benefited from being early sustainability adopters?
BT: A big part of Mark Kramer’s leadership style is to walk the talk, and our sustainability strategy is an extension of that philosophy. Our environmental initiatives are a necessary facet of leadership and one of the first things people associate with Laird Plastics.
SGP: How have your clients benefited from your company’s commitment to sustainability?
BT: Customers appreciate the level of detail and transparency we can provide for their recycling efforts. Their recycling transactions are conducted with as much honesty and integrity as they see on their front end sheet
purchases and we are willing to provide them with data to support their efforts. In addition, many companies ask us for guidance with product selection or setting up their own Environmental Management Strategy (EMS).
SGP: Would you encourage others to take their own sustainability journey, and if so, why? What would you tell them to help them?
BT: Every company should have some semblance of an environmental policy. At the very least, to be aware of consumption, product usage, and identifying inefficiencies. The days of burying one’s head in the sand are over. When getting started, be patient. Look for quick victories that can build momentum, and go from there. Business owners need to lead by example and stress the importance of new initiatives to every level, unit, or department of their business. And lastly, remember its a marathon not a sprint. Choose to do things right rather than fast.