Paul Earnshaw, Tesco PLC’s senior packaging manager recently delivered an enlightening presentation to housewares members of BHETA (British Home Enhancement Trade Association). Discussing Tesco’s approach to sustainable packaging, Paul also invited attendees to consult with him on the latest scientific conclusions in relation to plastics, paper, cardboard, glass, metal, and other packaging materials.
Tesco’s strategy follows ‘the four R’s’ – remove packaging where possible, reduce it where impossible to remove entirely, reuse more, and recycle what is left. All packaging materials used by Tesco and its suppliers have been categorised as red, amber or green according to their sustainability or otherwise and Paul set out the targets and timelines now being used across all Tesco categories. The plan is to remove ‘reds’ from use, control the use of ‘ambers’ and give preference to the use of ‘greens’.
Paul also set out the latest thinking in terms of sustainability for all types of packaging materials; and for the designs and formats of packaging, stressing the need for ‘designing for recyclability’. The presentation included many insights into recycling techniques and processes, showing their impact and limitations on the afterlife of different kinds of packaging.
Will Jones, chief operating officer at BHETA commented: “This was a hugely informative event, not least because in addition to setting out Tesco’s guidelines with great clarity, it also set out the reasons why packaging is at the forefront of the sustainability debate. There are many changes already happening and still to come in terms of how products are packaged for sale and for transportation, and some of the choices are challenging, so Paul’s knowledge and insights were extremely useful.”
After Paul’s presentation, BHETA has followed up with a members’ survey on the issues around packaging. The association is now planning advisory sessions covering compliance and practicalities surrounding packaging.
For more information contact Nicola Adams, Member Services Manager on na@bheta.co.uk or 07946 078566.
Top: This month Tesco began rolling out soft plastic recycling points to 171 stores in the South West of England and Wales, with plans to roll out to all large stores nationwide. The scheme covers packaging that was not previously recycled, such as bread and fruit bags.
