U.K. Supermarkets Use Too Much Packaging

July 7th, 2009 - Gerald "Gerry" Pugliese

SUPERMAGo to the store and buy something. Odds are it’s in a box and individually packaged, then it gets bagged in plastic. A lot of waste for just one box of cookies!

Luckily, more and more people are using those reusable shopping bags, but according to a new survey, in the U.K. excess packaging at the supermarket is a still a major problem.

Roughly 94% of respondents said they thought there was too much packaging and one-third of people to refused to buy a product because of all the packaging.

The study compared 27 everyday items, like bacon and ice cream, from six major supermarkets in the United Kingdom. The average weight of packaging—plastic or carton—came out to 392 grams, or 13.8 ounces.

Now, I’m not sure what those numbers mean, but the point the report makes is even though many U.K. supermarkets have attempted to reduce packaging and incorporate more recycled materials, experts say they can do more.

It’s simple. Improving packaging lowers cost to the consumer and helps the environment.

Via Food Navigator.

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New York Establishes Statewide Recycling Program for Plastic Bags

January 5th, 2009 - Gerald "Gerry" Pugliese

Governor David Paterson has signed a new law requiring all New York grocers and retailers that offer plastic shopping bags to provide collection bins for plastic bags and wraps.

New York City has already passed similar legislation.

Statistics show nationwide plastic bag recycling has increased 24% since 2006. New York’s new law, along with legislation passed in California, is expected to significantly reduce the amount of plastic waste headed to landfills.

Recycled plastic bags can be used to make consumer products, like shopping carts and new bags. So retailers across the nation have stepped up efforts to educate consumers and promote in-store recycling programs.

Now, to see how recycling works. RecycleBank breaks down the process step by step, from paper and metal to plastic and glass. It’s actually pretty cool!

Via ENN.

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