Concerns have emerged over the recycling practices of major UK supermarkets, Tesco and Sainsbury’s.
- Investigations revealed that certain recyclable materials were not dealt with as expected by consumers.
- Tracking devices highlighted the distance travelled by waste, raising questions about the efficiency of recycling.
- Reports show a significant portion of waste was either incinerated or downcycled overseas.
- Campaigners argue that the initiative distracts from the critical issue of excess plastic production.
A recent investigation has raised questions about the integrity of recycling schemes operated by Tesco and Sainsbury’s. It was found that a substantial amount of plastic waste deposited at their collection points was not recycled in the manner customers were led to believe. Instead, much of it was transported overseas where it was ultimately burned or downcycled.
Using Apple tracking devices, 40 bundles of supposedly recyclable plastic were monitored as they travelled over 25,000 km. The exploration found that 70% of these materials were incinerated for energy recovery, rather than being recycled. This process predominantly took place outside of the UK, with a notable portion sent to Turkey.
Only a small fraction of the soft plastic waste was downcycled within the UK. Campaigners, including Everyday Plastic and the Environmental Investigation Agency, argue that such practices are not aligned with the recycling objectives set by these supermarkets. The campaigners assert that these practices essentially mislead the public into believing their waste is being responsibly managed.
A spokesperson for Sainsbury’s acknowledged that while most flexible plastic collected in-store is in good condition and can be recycled, some materials may be unsuitable for recycling due to contamination or damage. Tesco claimed the transportation of materials to Turkey was a supplier error and that they remain committed to improving their recycling processes.
Campaigners pointed out the broader issue that such take-back schemes divert attention from the root problem: excessive production of unnecessary plastic packaging. Alison Colclough, Research Director at Everyday Plastic, emphasised that these schemes are portrayed as solutions but fail to address the key problem of plastic overproduction.
The controversy surrounding these recycling schemes highlights the need for more effective waste management and reduced production of plastic.
