Colgate-Palmolive Llavallol implemented a zero waste policy in 2020. In February 2021 the diversion rate reached 94.4% and since then the diversion rate has remained above 90%. The site conducts waste audits annually involving a multidisciplinary team. This helps to analyze waste & find opportunities to ensure more robust segregation at the source. Additionally, the EHS team conducts audits during weekly walkabouts where they inspect waste containers to verify if waste is correctly classified. At every office area and in different points within the warehouse, recycling stations were placed to correctly classify waste.
A home-made compost area was implemented on site with organic waste, that is the result of cafeteria and office waste, where the compost soil is used for the on-site vegetable garden and landscaping. The vegetables collected are used for cooking and salads. The site purchased a shredding machine with the purpose of trimming garden debris, avoiding this garden waste to be sent to landfill. With these garden debris trims, the site found an innovative waste stream to reuse these wood chips for gardening and composting. These wood chips are also collected in small bags and given to employees to take home.
“By 2025, we aim to achieve 100% TRUE certification for our global operations, including manufacturing sites, technology centers, strategic offices and owned warehouses,” says Ann Tracy, Chief Sustainability Officer. “With enthusiastic teams, collaborative partners and this comprehensive approach to waste reduction, we’re confident we can make it happen.”
Learn more about Colgate's sustainability efforts.