ISO Tank Containers: The Sustainable Choice Over Flexibag Containers

ISO Tank Containers: A Sustainable Solution for Liquid Cargo Shipping

Flexibags, often promoted as a convenient alternative to ISO tank containers, raise several environmental concerns. Comprising polyethylene and polypropylene sleeves, a flexibag weighing over 40kg ends up in landfills after just one use, equating to more than 7,500 single-use shopping bags. In contrast, ISO tank containers, with a service life surpassing 20 years, are approximately 90% recyclable at end of life, promoting long-term sustainability.

Moreover, flexibags pose significant recycling challenges due to a combination of product residue remaining in the bag after use and their thin 0.25mm polyethylene films, unlike the more easily recyclable rigid plastics. The misleading claim that flexibags require no cleaning post-use is debunked by the necessity to drain and clean bags carrying liquids. Conversely, ISO tank containers undergo controlled and monitored cleaning, ensuring safety for handling premium and/or hazardous goods repeatedly.

Enhancing Environmental Responsibility in the Supply Chain with ISO Tank Containers

Responsibility for the environment throughout the supply chain is a critical consideration. ISO tank container operators retain responsibility for the overall environmental impact, ensuring a controlled and audited process from design to production up until end-of-life stage. In contrast, flexibags lack traceability, transferring the responsibility for recycling and disposal to consignees. 

Safety Concerns: Flexibags vs. ISO Tank Containers

Beyond environmental concerns, ITCO underscores the safety risks associated with flexibags. Next to not being allowed to carry hazardous substances, the removal and disposal of contaminated flexibags pose a hazard to destination handlers worldwide, lacking global procedures and controls. Conversely, ISO tank containers adhere to audited safety procedures, minimising risks and ensuring the well-being of everyone involved or impacted in their transportation.

ISO tanks minimize leakage risks and ensure standardized connections, streamlining loading and discharging processes. In contrast, flexibags may lead to spills and challenges during discharge due to the risk of breakage, especially when fully emptying them at the end of the discharge process.

Road Safety: ISO Tank Containers Leading the Way

Road safety is another crucial aspect where ISO tank containers outshine flexibags. Specialised training for drivers handling liquid cargoes in tank containers ensures stability and reduces risks, a standard lacking in conventional dry box trucking companies used for transporting flexibags. The potential for liquid surges affecting braking and stability of transport and box container makes flexibags less secure for both drivers and the public.

In Conclusion: The Case for ISO Tank Containers

In conclusion, the evidence presented by ITCO strongly favors ISO tank containers as the more sustainable, economical, and safer option for liquid cargo transportation.