In its push towards zero-waste shopping, Woolworths has committed to bringing TerraCycle’s global zero-waste reusable packaging solution, Loop, to Australia.
Loop is one of the first projects to kick off a long-term partnership agreement between Woolworths and TerraCycle in a commitment that aims to tackle plastic waste in Australia by finding solutions for ‘difficult to recycle’ packaging and products.
As a result of this partnership, Australian grocery shoppers will be able to receive products from their favourite brands in reusable containers, delivered right to their doors from mid-2021.
It allows customers to sustainably consume a variety of commonly used products such as washing detergent, shampoo, juice or ice-cream in customised, brand-specific, durable packaging that is delivered in a reusable shipping tote.
When finished with the product, the packaging is collected or can be dropped back in store, cleaned, refilled and reused – creating a revolutionary circular shopping system.
Woolworths general manager of quality, health and sustainability, Alex Holt said, “Our customers are increasingly telling us they want products that are good for them, and good for the planet.
“We are pleased to be working with innovative partners like TerraCycle to lead the way in offering new and cutting-edge solutions to cut down on plastic waste.
“Helping bring Loop to Australia is a further step in our long-term ambition to reduce our impact on the environment and support a circular economy.”
Loop has partnered with major brands and retailers including Procter & Gamble, Unilever, PepsiCo, and Nestlé to offer consumers a way to go from disposability to durability with their purchases.
Announced at the World Economic Forum in January and launched in May 2019 in New York and Paris, Loop aims to expand into markets in the UK, Canada, Germany, Japan and Australia to become a “truly global movement”.
Loop vice-president of global business development Anthony Rossi said, “Woolworths is the perfect partner to bring Loop to Australia, due to its operational scale and commitment to environmental sustainability.
“Together we will help eliminate the idea of waste and bring a better product experience to consumers.”
Launching the Loop partnership in Sydney recently, the Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews praised Woolworths.
Andrews said, “I congratulate Woolworths for showing the initiative to embrace a recycling solution that will significantly reduce its waste packaging. TerraCycle is a global leader in recycling innovation. This partnership with TerraCycle to roll out Loop nationally sets a great example for other businesses.
“It is vitally important that both governments and the private sector play their part in reducing waste and embracing recycling solutions. I look forward to other businesses adopting similar initiatives.”
Customers interested in the service can now register their interest to be involved in the initial Loop trial, while supplier partners looking to participate are encouraged to get in touch with their relevant business partner within Woolworths.
