Co-op launches degradable carrier
Aim to reduce landfill waste
September 2 2002
The Co-op has launched the UK’s first 100 per cent degradable plastic carrier bag.
The new bags are as strong as non-degradable carriers and can still be reused. The move aims to reduce the number of plastic bags going into landfill sites.
From the date of manufacture, the plastic will start to degrade in about 18 months, with the whole process taking about three years. Standard bags take 100 years or longer to degrade.
The Co-op bags, supplied by Symphony Environmental, degrade completely to leave only carbon dioxide, water and a small amount of mineralisation compatible with soil.
Susan Bromley of the Co-operative Group said: “We are delighted to be the first British retailer to bring this bag to market. The Co-op degradable carrier bag is something our customers will clearly welcome as it will help to reduce the amount of waste going to landfill, reduce greenhouse gases and also help to reduce the amount of litter affecting wildlife and the countryside.”
Tom Robinson, head of retail at Symphony Environmental, said: “Our agreement with the Co-op is a significant first step in the introduction of degradable plastics to UK grocery consumers. The fact that the Co-op is pioneering the use of degradable carrier bags is testament to its genuine concern for the environment and its commitment to tackling the considerable problem of plastic waste.”
According to government figures, each person in the UK uses an average of 134 bags a year, equivalent to 323 bags a year for every household.
