With the Plastic Packaging Tax being introduced at the start of April 2022, the countdown is on for businesses to reduce the quantity of virgin plastic currently being used.
Why is Plastic Packaging Tax being applied?
The plastic tax is being introduced to create higher demand for recycled content. An increase in recycled plastic material will accelerate the growth of the UK recycling industry. The plastic tax offers a financial incentive for businesses to invest in recycling with the aim to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
What you need to know
The tax is being applied at £200 per tonne or 20p per kilo to plastic packaging that contains less than 30% recycled content. Product packaging that has plastic as the heaviest component will be liable for the tax if the plastic is not over 30% recycled. All stock containing 30% or more recycled content is completely exempt from the tax.
We, of course, now have a range of plain polythene bags that contain 30% recycled material and are exempt from the tax
Find them here
What are the sustainable alternatives?
Water Activated Tape (WAT)
Water activated tape is quickly becoming the most popular form of carton sealing. It’s environmentally friendly and creates a superior bond to conventional non-recyclable plastic tapes. Both the reinforced and plain paper tape are recyclable and 100% sustainable.
Airwave/PaperWave
Our range of Airwave air pillow systems and films are high quality, reliable and offer a sustainable alternative to classic void fill products. We offer a variety of air pillows, including our acclaimed carbon neutral pillow, made with more than 53% recycled content and in support if the rainforest’s projects. We also supply paper air pillow (made from recycled paper) and compostable pillow film.
Paper Mailing Bags
Paper mailing bags are the eco-friendly alternative to plastic mailing bags and are made from 100% recyclable paper and adhesives.
Cardboard Void Fill
Void fill is an invaluable commodity in the packaging sector. However, traditional forms of void fill such as polystyrene foam peanuts and plastic bubble wrap can be incredibly hard to recycle. By choosing a cardboard shredder, you’re able to re-use your cardboard waste as void fill. This also has the added benefit of reducing the expense of your waste disposal.