BAPL calls for plastic packaging taskforce

British Apples & Pears Limited (BAPL) has published a new report into potential ways to reduce plastic in the supply and sale of fresh produce.

The BAPL Report into the Current Position of Single-Use Plastic Packaging in the UK Top Fruit Sector summarises the current single-use plastics position of retailers, UK regulators and NGO campaigners.

Written by retail expert and food production specialist Claire Donovan, the report stresses the urgent need to create a cross-retailer/industry taskforce to find solutions for the sector.

This is one of seven key points set out in the report that would support future efforts towards minimising plastic pollution. Another is the need for the UK government to meet its commitment to consistent home/kerbside collection and recycling infrastructure.

“This is a complex, but important area of focus for UK apple and pear growers,” explains Ali Capper, executive chair of BAPL.

“We absolutely want to minimise plastic in the production and sale of British apples and pears, but we must fully consider the implications of proposed changes. We need to be especially mindful of keeping food waste to a minimum. We also need to ensure we’re not just moving environmental challenges from one part of the supply chain to another.

“This report is an important contribution to discussions, but most critical is that government, growers, NGOs and retailers come together now to work out the best possible solutions. That way the full implications and benefits of all approaches can be properly considered.”

Access the report here: Report into the Current Position of Single-Use Plastic Packaging in the UK Top Fruit Sector