// Co-op to launch in-store recycling scheme for plastic bags and product wrapping
// The rollout follows a successful 50 store film collection trial last year
// It will become the first UK supermarket to have fully recyclable food packaging
Co-op has introduced a new “extensive” in-store recycling scheme for plastic bags and product wrapping in a bid to reduce plastic pollution.
The rollout follows a successful 50 store film collection trial last year which found that 86 per cent of shoppers were likely to use the service.
Co-op said the move means that by the end of July, it will become the first UK supermarket to have fully recyclable food packaging.
READ MORE: Co-op launches new pregnancy loss policy
Recycling units for soft plastics will launch in 1500 Co-op stores this month and will reach 2300 shops by November.
The initiative ensures that all Co-op’s own food packing is easily recyclable by establishing an accessible disposal route for materials which are unlikely to be collected by UK councils.
These include crisp packets, bread bags, single-use carrier bags and bags-for-life, lids from ready meals and yogurt pots, biscuit wrappers and pet-food pouches.
The in-store units will also accept packaging for food products purchased in shops run by other retailers.
“As we face into an environmental crisis, we know from our feedback that there is a universal appetite for change,” Co-op Food chief executive Jo Whitfield said.
“Which is why we are making it easier for thousands of households to recycle all of their plastic food packaging.
“This will not only prevent unnecessary waste but also reduce plastic pollution. By offering a simple and convenient solution to an everyday issue, we believe we can help communities to make small changes, that together will add up to a big difference for our environment.”
Click here to sign up to Retail Gazette‘s free daily email newsletter
