British protective packaging distributor Macfarlane has released its environmental, social and governance (ESG) report for the calendar year 2022.

The report revealed that 77% of the company's products contain recycled content of 30% or higher and 89% of its packaging products are considered recyclable.

It also revealed that 6,500 customers have now switched to using at least 30% recycled content plastic packaging from the previous 0% recycled content.

Macfarlane reported an 11% absolute reduction in its carbon footprint, 9% of which was due to the sale of Macfarlane Labels on 31 December 2021.

The company also saw a 33% improvement in carbon intensity, measured by sales since 2019.

Macfarlane also saw improvement in the usage of renewable energy in 2022, with 88% of its electricity usage generated from renewable sources, compared to 67% in 2021.

During the year, the company introduced its first fully electric vehicle to its commercial delivery fleet.

Macfarlane Group's sustainability head David Patton said: “Macfarlane Group is sharply focused on limiting its impact on the environment, with particular emphasis on lowering carbon emissions and conserving natural resources.

“We want to build a more sustainable and fair future for our customers, our colleagues and our planet, as well as invest in the communities we serve. As our group’s sustainability strategy moves forward, we will continue to not only reduce our environmental impact, but to work with customers to help them reduce waste and emissions.”

Earlier in April this year, Macfarlane opened a new 5,000ft² packaging ‘Innovation Lab’ to meet its future packaging challenges.