Issue link: http://palletcentral.uberflip.com/i/1311385
32 PalletCentral • November-December 2020 palletcentral.com calculator that estimates for every 10 wooden pallets that are recycled, just under 1 car is taken off the road. The USDA estimates that 357 million pallets are recycled every year. So, the exact number of cars that would be taken off the road is more than 34.2 million. Simply put, pallets can do what Project Gigaton is aiming to do in 13 years … in eight. Durable, Customized Supply Chain In conclusion, we would be remiss to point out the high standards and tools that are set and available in this industry. One tool to gauge any organization's carbon footprint impact based on pallet usage is found at naturespackaging.org where supply chain partner companies can assess their organizational carbon footprint on pallet usage. Also, it is good to note that both softwood and hardwood lumber are used in wooden pallets, which have been graded for structural performance and can be customized to specific sizes to for the end-product requirements. Lumber used to construct wood pallets is graded according to quality rules by the American Lumber Standards Committee, National Hardwood Lumber Association, and the Canadian Lumber Standards Accreditation Board, where grades are codified as to their performance and appearance characteristics. As mentioned earlier, one of the biggest needs for the supply chain is having a pallet that's truly customizable. With so many different products and shipment specifications out there, the standard 48x40 pallet is not a one-size-fits-all solution for the entire industry. As the industry's resource, we've developed proprietary software that helps pallet designers work directly with the supply chain to meet their very specific pallet needs. From a pallet's specifications to its design, PDS is the resource that delivers the supply chain everything they need to implement the most sustainable option in the industry. As we continue to focus on what's most important to our supply chain partners – sustainability, reusability, recyclability, strength, durability and customization – I believe the solution is right in front of us. It's humble, it's ubiquitous, and it carries nearly every object through the supply chain. Pallets. Annette Ferri is vice president of communications. She plays a senior role in leading the organization's communications with the members of NWPCA and the industry. She may be reached at 703.519.6104.