A key part of the McCormick Global Sourcing Program is our vendor certification activity. We have a dedicated team that works with our joint ventures, strategic alliances, and other suppliers, training them in the latest supply chain activities and completing audits of their facilities to ensure compliance to US FDA GMP regulations. This step adds value to our suppliers who in turn take the value equation to their suppliers, the farming community. The impact on the local economy is substantial.
The Company works with the American Spice Trade Association (of which we are a founding member) and the Indian Spices Board to develop training programs for farmers.
Our environmental stewardship is evident globally as we look for ways to reduce material usage rates on all packaging components such as corrugated cardboard, folding cartons, plastic and glass bottles and more. In addition to reducing material usage, McCormick is investing resources in researching alternative materials, such as bio-resins for use in our plastic components. We also continuously evaluate energy-saving projects in our supply chain, specifically in the manufacturing and transportation of our packaging material as well as conserving natural resources including energy and water. We understand that every part of our operation has an impact as we continually look for ways to optimize our processes.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions: The main sources of emissions are related to the combustion of natural gas and use of fossil fuels to generate electricity. McCormick’s use of electricity is much greater than its use of natural gas. Therefore, using 2005 as a base, the Company has established a goal to reduce the use of electricity by 15% by the end of 2010.
Solid Waste: Many materials not consumed by our manufacturing processes may be recycled for other uses. Instead of disposing of re-usable materials in a landfill or incinerator, the Company has made a commitment to recycle and has established a goal to reduce the amount of solid waste transported to landfills or incinerators by 10% as of 2010, using 2005 as the base period.
Electricity Use: In 2007, a new lighting system was installed at the Company’s Hunt Valley Plant which has reduced that plant’s use of electricity by 10%.
Recycling: Approximately 50% of solid waste is recycled at the Company’s Spice Mill Facility in Hunt Valley, Maryland and at its manufacturing facility in Monteux, France. At its London, Ontario manufacturing facility, the Company recycles approximately 60% of its solid waste.
Environmental Management: In January 2008, the Company’s manufacturing facility in Monteux, France was certified under ISO 14000. That facility has adopted an environmental management system for managing the environment impact.
Water Use: In 2007, the Company’s Hunt Valley Plant reduced its water use by 40% following the replacement of its water-based cooling system with an air cooling system.