Driving sustainable change in FMCG: How EnviroServ is supporting a Greener Future

In today’s fast-paced FMCG and retail sectors, sustainability is no longer a “nice-to-have” — it’s a business imperative. For decades, EnviroServ has been at the forefront of environmental stewardship in sub-Saharan Africa, offering practical, future-focused waste solutions that support customers in reducing their environmental impact. Among these customers is Woolworths, a retail leader known for its unwavering commitment to sustainable business practices.

FMCG’s Unique Waste Challenge:

The FMCG industry moves at speed — and so does its waste. From excess packaging to food waste and e-waste generated through operations and logistics, managing this flow responsibly requires custom, flexible, and reliable solutions. Recognising these unique pressures, EnviroServ offers a full suite of sustainable services, including:

• E-waste collection and processing
• Food waste treatment
• Off-site decanting solutions

Sustainable packaging consultations, encouraging the use of recycled, recyclable, and biodegradable materials

Tailored waste management plans, supported by skilled experts and specialised vehicles

EnviroServ’s approach is never one-size-fits-all. Instead, the company develops strategies that reflect each customer’s operating environment, ESG goals, and regulatory responsibilities.

Partnership in Action: Good Business Journey:

A customer who prefers to remain anonymous has long set the benchmark for sustainability in the retail space. The customer’s Good Business Journey initiative includes bold commitments to reduce waste to landfill and embrace circular economy principles. This customer has partnered with EnviroServ to implement responsible waste solutions across its distribution centres.

Together, the two companies are proving that environmental responsibility and operational excellence can go hand in hand.

A Legacy of Sustainability:

With over 45 years of experience, EnviroServ’s commitment to the environment is embedded in its DNA. The company’s Sustainable Development Roadmap outlines specific climate, nature, and social targets, including:

• 10 Climate Commitments, such as reducing its carbon footprint and supporting clients in their decarbonisation efforts
• 2 Nature Commitments, focused on preserving biodiversity and reducing pollution
• 11 Social Commitments, from community upliftment to workplace inclusion

These goals are more than checkboxes — they reflect EnviroServ’s active role in shaping a cleaner, more equitable future.

Small Actions, Big Impact:

The urgency is clear. 2024 was the hottest year on record, underscoring the need for bolder climate action across industries. At EnviroServ, the belief is simple: small actions, consistently taken, lead to meaningful impact.

That’s why the company continues to invest in innovations that preserve resources, reduce emissions, and enable a circular economy — especially in resource-intensive industries like FMCG.

Sustainability is not just a trend — it’s the future. And with EnviroServ by their side, FMCG and retail businesses are better equipped than ever to meet that future head-on.