ACS is calling on retailers to engage with their customers to help them recycle more and use less waste as part of Global Recycling Day.
Figures from the 2018 Local Shop Report show that 46% of independent retailers have introduced a voluntary charge for plastic bags, while 11% provide recycling bins for customers on site. Many retailers also arrange local litter picks and other activity to reduce waste in their community.
As part of its commitment to helping retailers recycle and reduce the waste in their business, ACS is taking part in an initiative aimed at improving on-the-go recycling options in the centre of Leeds, where recycling reward machines, 'bubble-blowing' bins, and recycling collection bikes have been rolled out over the last few months.
The 'Leeds by Example' campaign is aimed at providing consumers with a means of recycling plastic bottles, drinks cans, coffee cups, and other packaging from goods consumed while out on the streets or in public places. At present, only 42 per cent of local authorities provide on-the-go recycling facilities in the UK. Environmental charity Hubbub has brought together 23 major brands and other supporters including ACS for the six-month trial initiative which launched in October, which has new recycling facilities deployed for plastic, cans, and paper cups on the streets and in local offices, universities, shopping centres, and transport hubs. The results of the six-month trial will be shared with a view to rolling out the most successful elements of the campaign nationwide in the future.
We are also just a few days away from the start of the Great British Spring Clean (22nd March – 23rd April). Retailers who would like to get involved with the campaign can download a free Coca Cola European Partners ‘Guide to Hosting a Community Clean-Up’ by visiting the sustainability section of their website www.cokecustomerhub.co.uk.
