We're announcing a number of measures to reduce plastic pollution - and also making a promise that, by no later than 2025, all of our own-brand plastic packaging will be reusable, recyclable or compostable.
We're proud to let you know that Morrisons is one of the signatories to WRAP’s UK Plastics PACT, an industry initiative which aims to transform the way businesses use plastic and prevent plastics polluting the environment. We've done lots already to cut plastic waste, and have a number of plans to make an even bigger difference.
Why are we taking action?
Our own research says that plastic reduction is now the third most important issue to Morrisons customers. Currently, 82% of the plastic by weight in the supermarket’s packaging is recyclable and to achieve the 100% target, we'll be collaborating with suppliers, other retailers, local authorities and WRAP.
"Reducing the damage caused by plastic is one of the most challenging issues society can address. Because we make most of the fresh food we sell, we’re in an important position to make changes to our packaging. Joining WRAP’s Plastic PACT also offers a special opportunity to work collaboratively to take this opportunity"
David Potts, Chief Executive of Morrisons
What we've already done
- We'll still serve you from the Morrisons Market Street Butcher and Fishmonger counter using our store containers - but you can now bring your own container if you'd prefer us to serve your meat and fish in this.
- Morrisons no longer buys plastic drinking straws
- Morrisons now only buys cotton buds with paper stems rather than plastic ones
- Morrisons no longer sells 5p single-use carrier bags
Since 2010, Morrisons has reduced the weight of packaging used across its Market Street counters by 50% (10,000 tonnes).
What we'll be doing to reduce plastic pollution
- Working through all of our own brand products to identify, reduce and remove any unnecessary plastic packaging.
- Trialling the effect of removing plastic packaging from fruit and vegetables in a number of stores - we'll look at how plastic packaging, which keeps food fresh, can be reduced without increasing food waste.
- Making more packaging recyclable - one of the first pieces of packaging to be replaced will be black plastic trays, used for fresh meat and fish. They'll be phased out by the end of 2019.
- Fitting drinking water fountains into new stores - we've already made water freely available in our cafés for customers who want to refill their water bottles.