FOODSERVICE wholesaler 3663, of Downton, has scooped another environmental award.

It has become the first UK company within the transport, storage and communications sector to win ISO 14001 for its environmental management system.

Its previous awards include the 1997 Motor Transport Environmental Award, 2000 Nature of Industry Award, 2002 national winner of Vision in Business for the Environment of Scotland, and the Green Apple Awards in 1998, 2001 and 2002.

Chief executive Fred Barnes said: "Achieving this certification was a challenge and took a dedicated team to make it happen.

"It means that our customers can feel even more confident about using a delivery service that is kinder to the environment."

In 1995 the company formed an environmental committee and launched an environmental policy and mission statement.

Measures taken on board include recycling cardboard and plastic packaging material at 3663's 35 depots, adding eco-labelling symbols to packaging, reducing exhaust emissions on the company's fleet, using the best refrigerant gas and recycling vehicle parts.

The company also makes sure its oil and oil filters are disposed of correctly, to ensure rivers remain clean.

Mr Barnes said: "This certification came from our commitment over the last eight years to continually improve environmental performance in all areas of our business.

"We even adopt measures that exceed legal requirements and demonstrate a flair for innovation, such as using pencils made from recycled vending cups," Mr Barnes added.