Window and door sector fastener specialist Rapierstar has embarked on a number of new initiatives to help reduce the environmental impact of its operations and further strengthen its credentials as a responsible supply chain partner.
Implemented as part of its latest environmental strategy are a series of changes at its Star Business Park HQ, warehouse and distribution centre in Cheshire. Here, better management of waste water has been prioritised with the installation of three new water treatment plants, which will turn waste water from the complex into drinking quality water for release into a nearby brook. An additional new oil capture tank that recycles brown water for further treatment from the large car parking area has also been installed.
Inside the building, Rapierstar has installed a dynamic lighting solution throughout its warehouse – where more than one billion window and door fasteners are stocked – and packing area. This has provided an energy saving of over 90%, by operating at only a sub 10% background lighting level before responding immediately to any vehicular or personnel movement and switching to full luminaire level. And, packaging now utilises recycled packing chippings in all customer orders that are despatched, helping to reduce reliance on new packaging materials.
With transport being one of most significant contributors to carbon emissions, Rapierstar’s environmental strategy works to both inspire behaviour change and utilise new technology. Staff are already getting involved in car sharing and, for those who live locally, cycling to work is being actively encouraged.
As electric vehicle technology advances rapidly, Rapierstar has ensured that drivers of 100% electric vehicles – visitors and staff – can now charge up whilst on site with the installation of a new rapid charging point. This has also enabled the company to add a plug in electric vehicle to its fleet, which will be used to provide emissions-free transportation on the final leg for the many visitors to Star Business Park who travel via Manchester Airport or mainline railway stations.
David Furness, MD of Rapierstar said: “Every business in the supply chain can play a part in minimising carbon emissions by making incremental environmental improvements, which collectively add up to make a significant global difference. As a business located in the rural south Cheshire countryside, we never lose sight of the role we must play in maintaining our local environment. It is fantastic, therefore, that many of our new initiatives will have a positive impact on our surroundings, as well as adding value for customers who are increasingly seeking the most sustainable supply chain partners.”
As one of the UK’s largest supplier of specialist fasteners to the fenestration sector, Rapierstar plays a key role in enabling fabricators to maintain high volumes of production and deliver consistently high quality finished windows and doors. Its expertise in new product development, sourcing, international trade, logistics and distribution ensures it can offer excellent reliability as a supply chain partner, with its current on time in full performance standing at 99.5%.
