PET FOOD AND THE ENVIRONMENT
The pet food industry is responsible, efficient and at the forefront of technology. This means that it can minimise the use of resources while maximising safety standards.
The pet food industry constantly aims to meet its objectives in a manner which is responsible to society and the environment.
Concern for environmental and ethical issues has led to the development of various voluntary policies within the industry such as those outlined on the Ingredients page. PFMA also encourages the efficient use of energy (including reclamation) in the production of raw materials and packaging, and in pet food manufacturing and transportation.
The industry's use of by-products from the human food and agricultural industries prevents the need for, and the costs of, disposal. It reduces the price of meat for human consumption and reduces the demands on the human food larder.
PFMA members are skilled in converting these by-products into added-value pet foods which help to ensure proper nutrition and hence play a significant role in the health of the pet population.
Under the Environmental Protection Act - Prescribed Processes Regulations, pet food manufacturers have to register their factories with their local authority and meet certain comprehensive standards.
The PFMA supports:
The efficient use of energy, resources and water for the production of safe, palatable and nutritious pet food.
The minimisation of all waste that may arise from the manufacturing process, including packaging materials.
The responsible design, operation and maintenance of processes and plants to minimise adverse environmental impact on the local community and, in particular, to:
- minimise emissions of harmful material to the environment
- minimise objectionable odours
- improve the appearance of manufacturing sites and premises where possible by means of landscaping and maintenance of buildings.
The use and development of appropriate packaging, without loss of safety or technological efficiency. Thus, fewer demands will be made on irreplaceable natural resources and packaging can be disposed of in a way which causes minimum impact on the environment. Schemes for the reduction, re-use, recycling and incineration of waste to reclaim energy are particularly important.
The provision of labelling which is clear, unambiguous and not misleading to consumers about the environmental impact or otherwise of a particular product.
The industry recognises that responsibility to the environment is as central to good manufacturing practice as considerations of safety and quality.
PFMA members are informed about, and comply with, relevant national and local environmental controls. Accordingly, PFMA recognises that legislation to protect the environment should be based on sound scientific evidence.
