Sustainability & Social Responsibility
Serving society beyond print
Sustainability at Harlow
At Harlow, we are committed to contributing to a more sustainable world by operating our business with a reduced environmental footprint, enhancing health and safety in our operations, and fostering a fairer society. Our long-term success is rooted in an approach that values ecological, human, and social considerations alongside economic factors.
Planet, People, Society
Harlow is committed to a more sustainable world by reducing our environmental footprint, enhancing health and safety, and fostering a fairer society.
For over 75 years, our guiding principle has been to build a better future and improve lives – and we’ve delivered on that through our successful support of the NHS, children’s health, and education markets.
Harlow Solutions is proud to be a carbon-balanced company committed to sustainability and reducing our environmental impact.
Taking responsibility for our environmental impact
Harlow is powered by accredited green energy sources and has been awarded the Step Award for the Environment. As a recognised leader in print management and fulfilment services, particularly for the NHS and children’s healthcare, we understand the importance of sustainable practices.
Our sustainability goes beyond compliance. We truly care about the environment and our impact on it and are committed to being environmental stewards. As detailed in our Carbon Reduction Plan, we aim to reduce our carbon footprint by 30% by 2030 through specific environmentally friendly practices. Harlow’s community engagement initiatives, such as our wildlife garden used by local schools as a curriculum resource, reflect our dedication to community well-being.
Our community engagement initiatives
Harlow’s community engagement initiatives, including our wildlife garden which serves as a curriculum resource for local schools, reflect our dedication to community well-being. Harlow is now a Carbon Balanced Accredited Printer, aligning with the principles of environmental responsibility. Moving forward, we are enhancing our efforts to reduce carbon emissions across our entire value chain. Our actions include:
Reducing carbon
emissions
Our bulk fleet delivery minimises carbon emissions by efficiently delivering goods nationwide. This eliminates the need for separate journeys and adheres to efficiency and environmental responsibility principles.
Packaging and single-use plastics reduction
As an ISO14001 accredited organisation, we prioritise reducing single-use plastics. We replace plastic shrink wrap with banding, an environmentally friendly and cost-effective alternative. We have reduced landfill waste across our operations by 75% through segregating and recycling.
Adopting renewable energy
We are predominantly powered by accredited green energy sources, driving us towards a zero-emissions production process. Our vehicle fleet is now primarily electric with on-site charging facilities.
Promoting health, safety, and well-being
At Harlow, we prioritise health and safety across all operations and for our customers. Our commitment to superior service ensures high-quality results while fostering a safe and healthy environment for employees and customers.
Anti-slavery initiatives
We are committed to eradicating modern slavery from our supply chain. We have implemented a comprehensive approach aligned with legal requirements and international human rights standards.
Disability confident employer
We actively recruit, retain, and develop disabled individuals as part of our commitment to being a Disability-Confident Employer.
Prompt payment practices
As signatories to the Prompt Payment Code, we advocate for fair practices and maintain strong working relationships throughout our supply chain by ensuring timely supplier payments.
Fostering a fairer society
We are committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace and supporting our local communities through various initiatives. Our efforts extend beyond our core services to promote social well-being and equity. Key actions include:
Partnerships with educational institutions
Collaborating with local schools, colleges, and vocational training centres to offer tailored training programs. We aim to equip students and job seekers with essential skills for successful careers, promoting economic mobility and reducing inequality.
Apprenticeship and training programmes
Providing apprenticeships and training opportunities to bridge skill gaps and promote career advancement. These programs offer practical experience and mentorship, empowering young community members to pursue sustainable careers in our industry.
Supporting SMEs
Supporting local businesses and building resilient supply chains through strategic procurement practices. We aim to strengthen the local economy and create opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Transparent procurement processes
Ensuring fairness and transparency in our procurement practices, including clear evaluation criteria and open supplier communication. This approach levels the playing field, enabling small and local businesses to compete effectively for contracts, creating a more inclusive economy.
Through these initiatives, Harlow aims to make a significant impact in combating climate change and creating a prosperous, resilient, healthier and more equal society. Our approach goes beyond compliance; it reflects a proactive investment in the environment and local community.
Looking ahead
Harlow remains steadfast in our dedication to sustainability as we forge ahead. By embedding sustainable practices across our operations, we aim to create lasting positive impacts on the environment, enhance health and safety standards and promote social equity.
We invite you to join us on our journey towards a more sustainable and prosperous future for all.
Since 1947, Harlow has been trusted by the NHS, pharmaceutical companies and the public sector to deliver exceptional print and digital service and enduring innovations