Walkers launches crisp packet recycling scheme
The manufacturer has partnered with recycling firm TerraCycle to allow consumers to send in their used crisp packets to be recycled, with all brands being accepted by the scheme.
Packets collected by TerraCycle are then cleaned and shredded, ready to be made into small plastic pellets that will be used to make everyday items such as outdoor furniture, trays, roofing and flooring.
To encourage the collection and return of crisp packets for recycling, Walkers is offering ‘charity points’ based on the number collected, which can be converted into donations for a charity of the consumer’s choosing.
Important step
Ian Ellington, general manager of Walkers’ parent company PepsiCo UK said the scheme was an important step towards the group’s ambition to make all of its packaging 100% recyclable, compostable or biodegradable by 2025.
“This is the first crisp packet recycling scheme in the UK and it will only work if everyone gets collecting and sending in, which is why we’ve made the scheme as simple as possible and free.”
Walkers brand ambassador Gary Lineker (pictured) will support the campaign and has voiced a video online explaining how the scheme works. It will also be promoted on Walkers crisp packets from January.
‘We must take action’
Commenting on the scheme, environment secretary Michael Gove said: “As the custodians of our planet, we must take action now to protect our oceans and wildlife from single-use plastic pollution.
“Walkers are setting a fine example with this new scheme, and I want to see other companies step-up, follow suit and reduce their environmental impact.”
Meanwhile, last week, McVitie’s and Jacob’s owner Pladis pledged to make all of its plastic packaging recyclable, reusable or compostable by 2025 as part of a range of sustainability measures to reduce its environmental impact.
