Reconomy, a leader in the global circular economy sector, alongside its esteemed UK brand, Valpak, has introduced a comprehensive report in collaboration with Footprint Intelligence. This document aims to equip foodservice operators with the necessary insights to effectively navigate the impending mandatory takeback scheme, designed to enhance recycling rates for food and drink packaging, particularly cups, while simultaneously reducing waste and fostering a more circular economy.
In today’s marketplace, the urgency for sustainable practices in foodservice settings has reached a critical point. Research conducted for Wrap, a charity by Valpak, estimates that approximately 3.2 billion cups circulate annually in the UK. As a result, both consumers and businesses are increasingly motivated to take proactive steps to address this pressing issue.
Valpak has consistently led the charge in improving cup recycling efforts. In a strategic partnership with Costa Coffee established in 2018, they developed The National Cup Recycling Scheme, significantly expanding the collection and recycling of paper cups across the UK. This initiative swiftly attracted participation from prominent brands such as McDonald’s, Caffè Nero, Pret A Manger, Greggs, Burger King, Pure, and Lavazza Professional. As a result, it has evolved into the UK’s largest paper cup recycling scheme, uniting retailers with waste collectors to collaboratively devise solutions aimed at preventing paper cups from ending up in landfills or contributing to litter.
A substantial amount of work has been dedicated to ensuring that businesses possess the correct knowledge, infrastructure, and processes for implementing accessible and effective takeback systems.
The introduction of a mandatory takeback scheme presents an opportunity to build on these existing efforts. Valpak’s newly released report consolidates insights from industry and policy experts, as well as NGOs, to offer critical guidance for foodservice operators in anticipation of this transformative initiative, which aims to redefine the cup recycling landscape.
Hannah Osman, National Cup Recycling Manager at Valpak by Reconomy, stated: “We are delighted to launch this report which will serve as an invaluable guide to help foodservice operators divert even more material from landfill. Having overseen the UK’s largest paper cup recycling scheme and worked with major brands, we are keen to share and utilise our expertise to collaborate even further across the industry to boost recycling rates and create a more sustainable future for our communities.”
