AP Yakult 05 08 Revised[1]

NATIONAL PACKAGING

COVENANT

ACTION PLAN FOR:-

YAKULT AUSTRALIA PTY LTD

ABN 97 055 486 443

AUGUST, 2005 – DECEMBER, 2008

1. TABLE OF CONTENTS 2

2. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 3 3. THE COMPANY 4 4. COMPANY BACKGROUND 5 5. NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION 6 6. ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY 7 7. PACKAGING AT YAKULT 8 8. PACKAGING STEWARDSHIP 9 9. ACTION PLAN 2004/2006 REVIEW 9 10. TABLE (A) ACTION PLAN (RESULTS)

2004/2006 10 11. TABLE (B) ACTION PLAN – 2005/2008 21 12. ACTION SUMMARY TABLE (C) 31 13. NOMINATED RESPONSIBLE PERSON 32

Yakult Australia Pty Ltd Page 2

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Yakult Australia Pty Ltd manufactures, markets and distributes fermented milk drinks throughout Australia and New Zealand. Yakult and Yakult Light are the only products produced by the Company. This document will report on the results of our Action Plan for the 2004/2005 as well as present our Action Plan for 2005/2008. Yakult Australia Pty Ltd as a signatory to the National Packaging Covenant views our commitment to this Action Plan, as a means of confirming and displaying our undertaking to the management and control of our product and associated packaging, particularly its impact on the environment. Yakult Australia Pty Ltd supports the Environment Code of Practice for packaging and undertakes to work in a co-operative manner with our customers and suppliers, encouraging them to play their part in the product and packaging stewardship for the product we produce. The person nominated as the contact for dealing with this plan is:- Mr Greg W Jerram Director – Human Resources Phone : (03) 9238 4712 2.1 SCOPE OF ACTION PLAN 2.1(a) TIME FRAME

August, 2005 to December, 2008

We propose that the annual review of the Yakult Action Plan be brought into line with our operating year which concludes in December. This will coincide with our international reporting requirement to our Parent Company Yakult Honsha in Tokyo, Japan. This change in reporting date will also facilitate ease of supplying and updating our base line data on a more accurate and reliable basis.

2.1(b) PLACE IN PACKAGING SUPPLY CHAIN

Brand Owner.

2.1(c) BRAND NAMES OWNED & MANUFACTURING LOCATION Yakult Light seven (7) pack – 65ml Yakult Original five(5) pack, ten (10) pack, – 65 ml.

Manufacturing Site:- 10 Monterey Road

Dandenong Vic 3175


1.2 RESOURCES AND PERSONNEL

Table (A) indicates key personnel based at Yakult Australia’s Head Office involved with Yakult’s commitment to the National Packaging Covenant.

TABLE A

Managing Director Overall approval of the company’s plan and

appointment of relevant company representatives.

QA / Laboratory Manager Responsible for product quality and liaison with parent company research and development activities.

Production Manager Management of production materials and finished product. Also overseas collection of waste material and raw material and finished product inventory.

Sales & Marketing Director Overall of distribution arrangements and approval of new packing design.

Manufacturing Director Selection and review of packaging finished and raw materials associated with product.

2. THE COMPANY

Yakult Australia Pty Ltd has been manufacturing, marketing and distributing Yakult from the Companies Head Office and manufacturing plant at Dandenong, Victoria since 1994. Yakult fermented milk drink is a probiotic product, meaning it contains live beneficial bacteria, which may help to restore a positive balance between the beneficial and potentially harmful bacteria in the digestive system. The bacteria found in Yakult is known as the Lactobacillus casei Shirota strain, and this particular strain is unique to Yakult. In addition to the company’s Head Office in Victoria, Branch Sales Offices are located in NSW, Qld, SA & WA. The company has a permanent member of the sales staff located in Launceston, Tasmania, however no branch office exists. Each of the Branch Sales Offices has a warehouse with cold storage facilities and they are able to store a limited number of pallets to service the route market, which would account for approximately 20% of the company’s sales. The other 80% is achieved through corporate sales through the major chain stores.


The company also has a Branch Office located in Auckland, New Zealand. The product from Australia is forwarded to New Zealand by airfreight. The company’s activities in New Zealand are focussed on Auckland and surrounding areas as well as Wellington and Christchurch. The Company is ISO 9001-2000 accredited and this certification has necessitated regular audit reviews by Company Management across all areas of the business. The latest of these reviews and our renewed accreditation occurred on 2nd March, 2007 for a further three (3) year period.

3. COMPANY BACKGROUND

Yakult Australia Pty Ltd commenced operation in Australia in January, 1994. The company is a fully owned subsidiary of Yakult Honsha, the parent company, which is based in Tokyo, Japan. On an international scale Yakult has operations in some 27 countries around the world and approximately 25 million bottles of Yakult are consumed on a daily basis. Yakult’s corporate philosophy is:- “To contribute to the health and happiness of people around the world through the pursuit of excellence in life sciences in general and our expertise in microbiological research in particular” Dr Minoru Shirota (1899 – 1982) a medical practitioner and microbiologist founded Yakult in the 1930’s. Dr Shirota’s objective was to identify a beneficial bacterium found in the human digestive system which would help patients affected by malnutrition as well as digestive and gastro disorders. The Lactobacillus Casei Shirota strain was named in his honour. After successful clinical trials during the 1930’s and further enhancement and development of the strain, Dr Shirota eventually formed the company Yakult Honsha in 1955. This was followed by the Yakult Research Institute in 1967. Both premises are located in Tokyo, Japan. The Australian Company was launched in January, 1994 and in the years that followed branch sales offices were opened in all states of Australia. Today the Australian operation employs around 140 people and bottle sales in excess of 150,000 bottles per day.


4. NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION

a) Yakult The ingredients used in production of Yakult are water, sugar, skim milk powder, glucose, flavouring and live Lactobacillus casei Shirota strain. The product is available in a five (5) pack and a ten (10) pack.

This product is fat and cholesterol free, low in sodium and has no artificial colours, flavours, preservatives or additives. The Glycaemic index for Yakult is 46 (low) meaning the product .is suitable for consumption by people with diabetes. Below is the nutrition information panel for Yakult. Servings per package

= 10

Servings per bottle = 1 (65ml)

Per 65ml Per 100 ml Energy 218kJ 335kJ Protein 0.9g 1.3g Fat – Total <0.1g <0.1g Fat – Saturated <0.1g <0.1g Carbohydrate – Total 11.9g 18.3g Carbohydrate – Sugars 11.6g 17.9g Sodium 10.1mg 15.6mg Cholesterol NIL NIL

b) Yakult Light Available in a five (5) pack Yakult Light is similar to Yakult however it contains 30% less energy and sugar. The ingredients used include, water, sugar, skim milk powder, polydexmose, glucose, flavouring, sweetener (955) and live Lactobacillus casei Shirota strain. The product is fat free, cholesterol free, low in sodium and has no artificial colours or preservatives. The nutrition information panel is detailed below.


Servings per package

= 5

Servings per bottle = 1 (65ml)

Per 65ml Per 100ml Energy 149kJ 229kJ Protein 0.9g 1.3g Fat – Total <0.1g <0.1g Fat – Saturated <0.1g <0.1g Carbohydrate – Total 9.0g 13.9g Carbohydrate – Sugars 7.1g 10.9g Sodium 10.1mg 15.6mg Cholesterol NIL NIL

5. ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY

Yakult sees itself as an environmentally responsible company committed to sound business practices. Environmental management is an area that needs to be monitored and developed by all responsible companies. Yakult has developed an environmental policy which states our goals and commitment in operating an effective environment management program. Under our environmental policy it is our intention to:-

1. Comply with all Federal, State and Local Government environment legislation.

2. Minimise the effects of our production and associated

packaging on the environment.

3. Regularly review potential environmental risks and develop suitable plans to address these issues as they occur.

4. Ensure manufacturing processes are operating as efficiently as

possible to maximise resources and reduce wastage.

5. Monitor waste levels and implement recycling procedures wherever possible.

6. Educate all company personnel as to their responsibilities in

contributing to the company’s environmental programme.

7. Encourage and acknowledge staff for identifying and suggesting ways to improve current business and manufacturing practices.


8. Work to establish and develop relationships with our suppliers

and employees to identify ways in which we can reduce and / or improve our packaging in all phases of manufacturing yet still protect our product.

By focussing on these principles Yakult believes we can build an organisation where all involved are conscious of there contributions and the impact each member can have on improving the environment.

6. PACKAGING AT YAKULT

The majority of our raw materials used in the production of “Yakult” are delivered in a range of packaging, which is dependent on storage and handling requirements.

We import the polystyrene pellets from Japan, which are used for the blow moulding process used to manufacture our 65ml bottles. This bottle is the only method used to pack and distribute our product.

The following types of packaging are used:-

PRODUCT

PACKAGING

Skim Milk Powder (bags) – combination plastic inner, paper outer Sugar (bags) - paper Polystyrene Resin (bags) – paper and plastic combined (inseparable) Shrink Wrap (various) (printed) – rolls on cardboard core Aluminium Foil (printed) – roll on cardboard core Cardboard Pallet Pads (dividers) - cardboard Pallets (Chep) – wooden (leased)

Plastic - reusable Labels (boxes) - cardboard Essence / Flavour metal tins container Printing Ink metal tins container Wooden Delivery Crates (from Japan)

Outer for aluminium foil (cardboard boxes) Outer for shrink wrap (cardboard boxes) Outer for machine parts Outer for essences (metal tins)



8. PACKAGING STEWARDSHIP

Yakult Australia has continually reviewed the packaging used in the delivery and presentation of our product. All states are required to report on waste product and statistics are presented to the executive group on a monthly basis to ensure these levels are continually reviewed and improvements and action plans suggested to the executive group. The company’s inclusion under the deposit container legislation in South Australia has made staff more conscious of the significant recycling costs and the company’s need to monitor how our packaging and that of our suppliers affects the environment. All paper, cardboard and metal containers which we receive from suppliers are being evaluated to ascertain what can be recycled, or if there is an alternate material available.

9. ACTION PLAN 2004/2006 REVIEW The results achieved for the two (2) years under review are shown in Table (A) headed Action Plan Results. Because of the need to bring this Action Plan up to date and realistically reflect where the company stands at present, this review has included our last full operating year, 2006. In regard to this I would refer you to our request under “2.1(a) Time Frame” as submitted in this plan.

10. TABLE (A) - ACTION PLAN RESULTS – 2004/2006

CATEGORY

ACTION

ACCOUNTABILITY

TARGET

RESULTS

DESIGN: Continue to evaluate the materials used in the production, packaging and distribution of Yakult. This will incorporate reviewing current suppliers however with consideration applying to global purchasing policy.

Manufacturing

December, 2005

Yakult has continued to evaluate all materials used in the production, packaging and distribution of Yakult. A major focus of this review was the film used to wrap all five (5) and ten (10) pack products. A local supplier of film wrap was evaluated during 2005 however the quality was found to be inferior and the company has continued to use the supply of film from Japan. The supply of this film from Japan has obvious benefits to Yakult Australia Pty Ltd because of our parent company’s global purchasing strength and quality standards.


ACTION PLAN RESULTS – 2004/2006

CATEGORY

ACTION

ACCOUNTABILITY

TARGET

RESULTS

DESIGN:

The impact of Company and consumer concern as to appropriate recycling process will continue. We will review at any opportunity our product design / packaging. This will include liaising with “Litter Australia”.

Manufacturing / Public Relations

Annual Report

December, 2006 (12 month review)

The company has implemented an educational component into their plant tours and external visits to highlight the company’s commitment to the National Packaging Covenant and our ongoing review to recycling activities. We have introduced and maintained a monthly consumer reporting system through our PR Department and ‘1800’ free call number to record any questions as recycling or packaging.



CATEGORY

ACTION

ACCOUNTABILITY

TARGET

RESULTS

PRODUCTION: Review current practice as to disposal of all waste product and material at the Company Head Office manufacturing site as well as Branch Offices in all states. In reviewing and analysing interstate termination if a “best practice” procedure can be implemented for all states.

Sales Marketing / Public

Relations / Manufacturing

December, 2006

A listing of all companies associated with providing services for the collection and/or disposal of waste product has been prepared and made available as part of our internal education programme. Wherever possible we have sought the services of specialist companies to meet our specific needs. A similar review has been conducted with all interstate branch offices with a view to determining whether a “best practice” approach could be adopted. However, at this stage we have decided that each branch office should continue to review and manage their own waste programme. A further review in November, 2006 has resolved this activity would be better co-ordinated from Head Office (VIC).



CATEGORY

ACTION

ACCOUNTABILITY

TARGET

RESULTS

DISTRIBUTION: In conjunction with all state sales managers determine if there are any practices which can be implemented to reduce the packaging distribution material despatched from Head Office.

Sales / Marketing /

Manufacturing

December, 2006

Distribution to the branches will continue to be reviewed to reduce waste and packaging needs. As part of this review one of the benefits we have identified and implemented has been the return of pallet pads (cardboard) which are placed between levels of stock transported to WA. These pads are now stored and returned to Head Office once a significant number has been built up. We are reviewing the same activity for the other branches however the outcome is dependent on pallet configuration. This practice has now also been implemented in New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia.



CATEGORY

ACTION

ACCOUNTABILITY

TARGET

RESULTS

DISTRIBUTION:

Evaluate the costing of utilizing a LP gas vehicle verses standard fuel over a twelve (12) month basis. What benefits / advantages are achieved? Are there environmental advantages

Human Resource / Sales

/ Marketing

July 2005

We purchased two (2) Ford Econovans for our fleet and fitted both vehicles with LP Gas to measure efficiencies and costs. While there were some identifiable savings as to fuel the actual performance of the vehicles we thought was not as good, particularly when country use was involved. Accordingly, and at least for the time being we will continue to purchase fuel powered vans.



CATEGORY

ACTION

ACCOUNTABILITY

TARGET

RESULTS

RESEARCH: Identify any practices which have been implemented with Yakult internationally which may have benefits to the Australian operation either materials, process or packaging

Manufacturing

Ongoing

Year end report

Contact with Yakult Honsha, our parent company, along with other Yakult global locations continues to be an ongoing arrangement, particularly with Australian Management members visiting the parent company throughout the operating year. In more recent times the practices which have been identified and implemented in Australia relate to Sales Division structure and staff training. Yakult Australia Pty Ltd will continue to use such overseas opportunities to review company practices which may provide benefits here at our Dandenong Manufacturing Plant and Head Office.



CATEGORY

ACTION

ACCOUNTABILITY

TARGET

RESULTS

DISPOSAL: Network with other like companies to explore practices as to handling waste materials and utilising recycling materials ie. Dandenong District and South Eastern Production Group.

Human Resources /

Manufacturing

Review as to progress

Ongoing activity

The company’s membership of the various employer groups and associations continues to provide a network facility where we can learn of and develop information as to recycling / waste control practice. We have also ensured that several of our key staff in the manufacturing division attend appropriate training programmes to ensure they are aware of Yakult’s obligation and their individual contribution to the National Packaging Covenant and the required action plan.



CATEGORY

ACTION

ACCOUNTABILITY

TARGET

RESULTS

MARKETING DEVELOPMENT

Review all current packaging and prepare a contact list as to suppliers and contact personnel. If they are participants to the Covenant, are there other practices / procedures we should consider?

Manufacturing/ Sales /

Marketing / Human Resources

Year end report December, 2005

The company’s Production Co-ordinator has prepared a list of current suppliers both in terms of packaging and raw materials (as well as the key individual contact). Those that we know who are parties to the NPC have been highlighted accordingly.

Document the likely review date of all new packaging material and use the opportunity to improve current material either as to quality or information provided.

Ongoing as opportunity

occurs

Currently we are working with several of the major packaging suppliers who provide our pack film wrap and finished pallet shrink wrap to provide a better more flexible wrap which will provide more stretch and greater coverage. Ultimately we would hope this means less shrink wrap will be required.



CATEGORY

ACTION

ACCOUNTABILITY

TARGET

RESULTS

EDUCATION: Incorporate our involvement as a participate in the National Packaging Covenant and include our commitment to reduce waste and improve the environment with all plant tours and educational talks

Public Relations / Human

Resources

December, 2006

Our Public Relations Department has included information as to our participation in the National Packaging Covenant in all external and internal briefings they provided to the public. The company’s environmental policy has now been incorporated in our ISO 9001-2000 manual.

Endeavour to have all Managers / Supervisors and senior staff participate in either external or internal training to ensure they are aware of the latest developments as to the covenant and best practices which are being pursued.

Public Relations / Human

Resources


The training and education for all Yakult employees is an ongoing commitment. General awareness of our participation as a signatory is highlighted through our company newsletter.



CATEGORY

ACTION

ACCOUNTABILITY

TARGET

RESULTS

LABELLING: Review all labelling in use and proposed to ensure current and new legislation / codes are reflected. Liaise with the appropriate authorities to ensure current information is available.

Examine the possibility of including consumer messages as to recycling on packaging.

Manufacturing / Sales /

Marketing / Public Relations


Both the PR Department and the Sales and Marketing team take the opportunity to review our labelling on each occasion new packaging film is ordered. The two most recent occasions took place when we introduced Yakult Light to the market place and when we highlighted our FINA sponsorship on the current packaging. We also took the opportunity at this time to review our Nutrition panel to enable conformity with other information we were providing to consumers. Our next review of film wrap will likely occur around September, 2007 and again at this time we will use the opportunity to ensure our compliances with all relevant legislation.



CATEGORY

ACTION

ACCOUNTABILITY

TARGET

RESULTS

NATIONAL PACKAGING COVENANT:

Continue to be an active member and contributor to covenant and monitor the status of current and new suppliers as signatories.

Manufacturing / Human

Resources


Yakult has continued to make all company personnel aware of our involvement as a signatory to the covenant and to consider their individual roles as a contributor to our success.


11 TABLE (B) – ACTION PLAN AUGUST 2005 – DECEMBER, 2008

11.1 CONSUMER PACKAGING

KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATOR

INFORMATION

RESPONSIBILITY

DATE

REPORTING

MEASURE KP1 (1) & (6) Individual Brand Owners Total weight of consumer packaging by material type sold P.A. into the Australian market and total weight of products packaged.

The base line for this data has been determined from Dec 2006 year end sales data

Production Manager and Manufacturing Director. Comparison data from Sales and Marketing Director.

Report annually in January for the previous year. (Jan 2008)

DATA BASELINE 2006 KPI (1)

(a) Tonnes of packaging material = 231.5.

(b) Tonnes of product sold = 4326.4.

(c) Ratio of product to packaging used = 18.7.

DATA BASELINE 2006 KPI (6)

(a) Tonnes of non-recyclable consumer packaging sold = 209.8.

(b) Tonnes of non-recyclable packaging as a percentage of total packaging sold = 7.2.

ACTION 1 During the review period (Jan – Dec 07) we will endeavour to detail this consumer packaging information and determine if there may be some computer system enhancements we can adopt to improve on the accuracy of the base data. Review with December, 2007 results. ACTION 2 To undertake a more detailed analysis as to the type of plastic being used as part of our packaging outer wrap. This will also include trying to obtain some standardisation as to the grade / resin used in the manufacture of our Yakult bottles and how this resin is rated as to recycling potential.


ACTION PLAN AUGUST 2005 – DECEMBER, 2008


INFORMATION

RESPONSIBILITY

DATE

REPORTING

MEASURE KPI (3) Improvements in Design, Manufacture, Marketing & Distribution

To continually review the opportunity of minimizing the impact of our packaging on the environment in Yakult’s case this will be impacted by the volume of and nature of the material used.

Production Manager, Sales & Marketing Director, Manufacturing Direction

Sept 2007

To review Oct 2007 if changes are implemented.

ACTION 3 Design

Yakult management, particularly the manufacturing team will review the packaging material which is used throughout the manufacturing plant on an annual basis. In addition where a particular batch of film or shrink wrap is coming up for replacement we will ensure the quality and nature of the product is fully examined to ascertain how it fits within our action plan review. At this stage the next review of film/shrink wrap is likely to take place in September, 2007. ACTION 4

Manufacture A full review will take place as to the relationship that currently exists with all waste disposal contractors, and a full analysis presented as to the disposal and use of company waste material. In conjunction with the manufacturing team this analysis should be reviewed to ensure the most effective manner of disposal or any new practical application has been fully explored. (Report at December, 2007) ACTION 5

Distribution Each states Sales Manager / Supervisor will be asked to submit a formal report as to what action is being taken in their respective state to minimize packaging / material waste and how is such disposal of in the branch. (June, 2007) It has also been agreed that through the company’s Public Relations Department the company’s commitment to recycling and waste management will be reinforced as part of the standard induction programme, or at any external presentation where this information can be incorporated. (Ongoing activity)




INFORMATION

RESPONSIBILITY

DATE

REPORTING

MEASURE KPI (4) Changes to protection, safety, hygiene, shelf life or supply chain considerations

To review the amount of packaging used both in terms of the Yakult bottle and the shrink wrap involved with a view to reducing the overall amount of packaging.

QA Manager, Production Manager National Sales Manager

Review at the end of the operating year. (Dec 2007)

Packaging information will be highlighted in benchmark data.

ACTION 6 Review the reporting of damages/exchanges of stock and the ratio compared to product manufactured. Analyse the reason/cause of such damage.




INFORMATION

RESPONSIBILITY

DATE

REPORTING

MEASURE KPI (16) Recycling Collection facilities for post consumer packaging generated on site.

The production team has made some changes to the collection facilities which are available on site. Presently we have recycling collection facilities for paper, tin and some non-filled bottles.

Production Manager, Director of Manufacturing Branch Managers / Supervisors

Review at end of operating year. (Dec 2007)

Refer to data reported in the IDAS Benchmarking. Report at January, 2008.

ACTION 7 We will also review what improvements can be implemented for post consumer packaging which is generated at our branch offices interstate. While no manufacturing is undertaken outside of Victoria, packaging waste is still an issue which should be addressed.




INFORMATION

RESPONSIBILITY

DATE

REPORTING

MEASURE KPI (21) Estimated tonnage of consumer packaging

(a) recycled (b) sent to land fill

To maintain an accurate record of all recycled and land fill product generated by Yakult.

Production Manager National Sales Manager

December, 2007

Benchmark data base figures. Estimate tonnage of consumer packaging sent for recycling and to landfill from onsite collection:- Consumer Packaging to recycling = 25.8 tonnes, percentage of t/waste 30.5%. Consumer Packaging to landfill = 58.8 tonnes, percentage of t/waste 69.5%.

ACTION 8 In conjunction with all interstate Branch Managers/Supervisors ensure that accurate records of recycling and land fill activities are maintained and improvements to current practices forwarded to Head Office.




INFORMATION

RESPONSIBILITY

DATE

REPORTING

MEASURE KPI (22) Formal adoption of ECoPP and development of systems for its implementation.

To ensure all Yakult personnel involved with the ECoPP are formally made aware of the code.

Director Human Resources Education Co-ordinator

December, 2007

Document the implementation of this education programme in the 2008 Action Plan Review.

ACTION 9 In consultation with our Public Relations Department, particularly our Education Co-ordinator, devise an education programme to promote this Code and highlight its significance with future packaging development. Also ensure the Code is incorporated into the Company Environmental Policy.




INFORMATION

RESPONSIBILITY

DATE

REPORTING

MEASURE KPI (26) Buy Recycled Purchasing Policy

The company has not made any significant approach to establishing a formal “buy recycled policy” to date. This will be reviewed in conjunction with key staff.

Senior Manager Finance/Admin Company Accountant Director Human Resources

December, 2007

Report on results in 2007 Action Plan Results.

ACTION 10 Research and develop a suitable “buy recycled” policy which can be incorporated in our Environmental Policy. ACTION 11 Obtain a buy recycled guide/manual from the two (2) major state Governments Victoria / NSW. ACTION 12 Identify what office products/materials are possibly able to be replaced with recycled goods.




INFORMATION

RESPONSIBILITY

DATE

REPORTING

MEASURE KPI (27) Baseline Performance Data

The year 2006 was the first year that baseline data was collected and the general observation of those involved was the “manual” method of collection could be improved.

Production Manager Company Accountant Assistant Company Accountant (I/T)

December, 2007

To be reported on when preparing 2007 Action Plan Results.

ACTION 13 By co-operation between Production and Administration staff, develop a reporting and recording system which will gather baseline data / information on a monthly basis for review.




INFORMATION

RESPONSIBILITY

DATE

REPORTING

MEASURE KPI (28) Annual Reporting against Action Plan

Clearly Yakult needs to improve the manner in which it reports on its actions and targets.

Management Team

December, 2007

It is proposed the results from the 2007 Action will be concluded and forwarded by 31st January, 2008.

ACTION 14 To assist in the preparation of future Action Plans and reporting of Action Plan Results we will consider seeking the professional services of an external consultant to refocus members of the Management Group and to ensure we are meeting our obligations under the National Packaging Covenant.





INFORMATION

RESPONSIBILITY

DATE

REPORTING

MEASURE KPI (29) Demonstrating continuous improvement and achievements.

The current Action Plan has been delayed in submission for a number of reasons however these situations required greater attention. The company is committed to annual reporting and the next report will be submitted by the end of January, 2008.

Director Human Resources

December, 2007

To be reported on and submitted by 31st January, 2008.

ACTION 15 Ensure the results of the activities addressed during the year of 2007 are reported on time. Incorporate the latest baseline data with this report. Evaluate the benefits of obtaining the services of a professional consult to assist with future Actions Plans. Contact has been made with the technical support help desk through Ms Di Dibley at the Australian Industry Group (AIG) to seek advice from Mr R Martin.

ACTION SUMMARY

TABLE C – SUMMARY OF ACTION POINTS AND TIMEFRAMES

Action Product Stewardship Categories

KPI Responsibility Completion Date

1. Consumer Packaging Data collection through IT facilities Production Manager Dec, 2007 2. Consumer Packaging Plastic shrink wrap and resin

analysis Production Manager Dec, 2007

3. Consumer Packaging Design

Ensure alternate packaging is considered when renewal occurs.

Sales & Marketing Director Production Manager

Sep, 2007

4. Manufacturing Disposal

Consultation with waste disposal contractors to maximize waste management and recycling.

Production Manager Director Human Resources

Dec, 2007

5. Disposal Recycling Formal communication from Branch Office as to recycling waste management.

Branch Manager / Supervisors Jun, 2007

6. Distribution Protection Analysis of damages/exchanges and impact on waste management.

National Sales Manager QA Manager Production Manager

Dec, 2007

7. Distribution recycling disposal

Through reviewing branch interstate with supplier and Head Office determine if post consumer packaging can be reduced.

Branch Managers / Supervisors Production Manager National Sales Manager

Dec, 2007

8. Distribution recycling disposal

Establish reporting procedures for Branch Managers/Supervisors to detail landfill and recycling quantities.

Production Manager National Sales Manager Branch Managers / Supervisors

Dec, 2007

9. Education, Design Develop a programme to promote ECoPP and incorporate in company product development / enhancement and environment policy.

Director Human Resources Education Co-ordinator

Dec, 2007

10. Recycling, Education Reprocessing

Develop a “buy recycled” policy and incorporate such in environmental policy.

Director Human Resources Snr Manager Finance Company Accountant

Dec, 2007


Obtain a copy of “buy recycled” guide from State Governments (NSW/VIC).


Dec, 2007


Review what products may be considered for replacement under “buy recycled” policy.


Dec, 2007

13. Design Research Develop a reporting and recording system to efficiently gather baseline data.

Production Manager Company Accountant Assist Accountant (IT)

Dec, 2007

14. Design Education Investigate the benefits of obtaining the services of an external consultant to assist with future Action Plans / Results.

Management Team Dec, 2007

15. Education Reprocessing

Through external assistance and “AIG” technical help improve timelines of reporting and clear demonstration of continuous

Director Human Resources Dec, 2007


improvement.


Nominated Responsible Person and Authorisation of the Action Plan

Mr Gregory W Jerram Director – Human Resources Yakult Australia Pty Ltd 10 Monterey Road Dandenong Victoria 3175 Australia Phone : +61 3 9238 4700 Fax : +61 3 9238 4799 [email protected] Authorisation Mr Toshiaki Hirayama Managing Director For : Yakult Australia Pty Ltd Signed: Date:


mailto:[email protected]

Documents

AP Yakult 05 08 Revised[1]