Packaging developments in UK supermarkets
2020 is fast approaching, meaning we are getting closer to the EU’s proposed target of recycling at least 50% of waste from households. In the run up to this, there has been a drive to change and reduce the types of packaging used for many consumer products, alongside several campaigns to increase awareness around the importance of recycling and the impact waste has on the environment.
One of these is ‘recycle week’, organised by WRAP, which took place on 23rd -29th September 2019 with the aim of encouraging the public to change their recycling behaviour. As well as this, many big brands and supermarkets have pledged to change their packaging to more eco-friendly alternatives.
Amongst these supermarkets are Asda and Tesco. Most recently, Asda introduced recyclable cardboard steak packaging to replace the plastic trays that were previously used. According to Asda, this will save over 50 tonnes of plastic annually and is a step closer to achieving their target of making all their own-brand packaging 100% recyclable by 2025, whilst also making it easier for customers to buy the same groceries without having to worry about their plastic consumption.
Tesco has also promised to improve their own-brand packaging, but to also stop stocking brands who use too much non-recyclable packaging from next year. This is after they provided suppliers with a list of preferred materials, however the pressure is now increasing with greater public awareness around Britain’s plastic waste and with government plans to charge private companies more towards the UK’s recycling infrastructure in order to combat waste.
Over the last few years, the UK has made real progress in combating waste and in increasing public awareness around the issue. These are just two examples of UK companies making positive developments; however this will need to continue in order for the outcomes to make a real impact.
Having worked with packaging companies and supermarket chains across the country, keeping up to date with industry developments is essential. Having obtained UNI EN ISO 14001:2015 certification and, as the only one among the manufacturers of conveyor belts, EMAS validation (Eco-Management and Audit Scheme) we place great importance on our own environmental impact and continue to look at ways to improve and develop our practices. To find out more about what we do or to speak to a member of our team, call 01977 691 880 or email sales@chiorino.co.uk.