DS Smith Converters has become the latest DS Smith Packaging site to receive accreditation to ISO 14001:2004, the European Standard for Environmental Management systems.

To achieve this accreditation an environmental management system had to be created with the aim of reducing the company's 'carbon footprint'. Practical steps included targeting capital investment at a range of energy reduction initiatives such as energy efficient illumination throughout the plant, including motion sensor lighting; condensate recovery systems to save steam; improvements to the compressed air system and promotion of an energy awareness programme for all employees. Other practical steps included enhancing waste segregation and recycling as well as a multitude of detailed procedural controls to reduce DS Smith Converters' impact on the environment.

Mr Mike Nicholas, Managing Director of DS Smith Converters, said: 'This is another important milestone for our plant, and follows on from the successful BRC / IOP Hygiene Accreditation we achieved in 2005'.

'The commitment and enthusiasm shown by everyone here in achieving the necessary standards to gain the accreditation is a result of many months of hard work'.

'Customers, neighbours and our own employees can now have even more confidence in our ability to supply sheet board which is produced not only safely and hygienically but also in a way which minimises our impact on the environment.'