Supermarket giant Woolworths has signalled its intent to reduce single-use plastic packaging in its stores, signing a partnership with US based recycling business, TerraCycle, that will come into effect by mid-2021.
TerraCycle’s website describes itself as an ‘innovative waste management company whose mission is to eliminate the idea of waste.’
Its initiative ‘Loop’ is a circular shopping platform that partners with brands and retailers to shift from a disposable to durable supply chain.
It works by providing a household with reusable containers in a large collapsible shopping bag, not dissimilar to an UberEats bag.
Products that can be purchased through the Loop platform include washing detergents, shampoo, juice and ice-cream – all of which come in single-use plastic packaging.
Once the product is finished and requires replenishing, it is placed in the shopping bag which is then picked up, cleaned, refilled and delivered. Consumers also have the choice of swapping containers at participating stores.
Woolworths general manager of quality, health and sustainability, Alex Holt said: “Our customers are increasingly telling us they want products that are good for them, and good for the planet.
We are pleased to be working with innovative partners like TerraCycle to lead the way in offering new and cutting-edge solutions to cut down on plastic waste,” added Holt.
