While the introduction of greener packaging systems and recycling initiatives has been met with near-unanimous approval by manufacturers and consumers in recent years, there remains a significant number of questions about the best means to reduce waste and effectively cut the amount of virgin plastics being created annually.
Nevertheless, according to a recent study held by Interseroh Dienstleistungs GmbH, the use of Procyclen (a recycled plastic created by the company) prevents an average of 1002 kg of greenhouse gases per tonne being from emitted into the atmosphere, when compared to levels produced from the creation of virgin plastics made using crude oil. This represents a 56% reduction in harmful emissions.
Despite the ongoing development of greener materials, many supply chain experts continue to call for a multi-pronged approach to tackling climate change, advocating for both initiatives to innovate in the materials sector and wholesale changes to the supply chain and consumer behaviour.
In the case of changes to supply chain and consumer behaviour, a drive towards a circular economy—in which resource reuse and material regeneration are central—has been championed across the retail world with ever-increasing frequency in recent years, which growing examples of key UK retailers seeking to reduce their dependence on virgin plastics and non-recyclable packaging materials.
ASDA recently announced an increase to their refill options at their flagship sustainability store, offering returnable glass bottles on Coca-Cola Original Taste and Zero, to build on existing efforts to offer returnable packaging on cereals, pet food and teas.
If you’d like more information on how your business can reduce its plastic use and introduce greener systems into its operations, contact us today: 01922 472 400