Eliminating

PROBLEM
PLASTICS
Version 2 - August 2019
Overview why? First steps the eight to go WHAT’S NEXT? the future appendix

Overview

Problem plastics
Plastics appear everywhere in our Initially eight plastic items have been identified
to be eliminated before the end of 2020 where
daily lives, and we are using them technically possible. The UK Government recently
in all sorts of positive ways. announced that three of these items; plastic
straws, stirrers and cotton buds, are to be banned
However, this has led to an increase in plastic from April next year. The UK Plastics Pact is driving
waste which harms our environment. This is a forward this work by eliminating five other
big issue. problem plastics.
So what’s the solution? The UK Plastics Pact On top of the eight items highlighted as a priority
is blazing a trail. Its members are responsible for elimination, a further list of items are being
for 85% of plastic packaging sold through UK investigated. Members are required to develop
supermarkets and have pledged to take actions and adopt solutions to address the issues through
to eliminate problematic or unnecessary single- reuse, redesign and/or smarter recycling by 2025.
use packaging items by 2025.
However, unintended consequences must be
avoided. Specifically, substituting another material
should not create any additional environmental
impact and food waste should not increase as
a result of changes in packaging.

The UK Plastics Pact | ELIMINATING PROBLEM PLASTICS V2 1

Overview why? First steps the eight to go WHAT’S NEXT? the future appendix

Why?

appetite for change

Members of The UK Plastics It is also important to recognise the frustration
and confusion felt by consumers who want to
Pact acknowledge and share the make the right choices.
undeniable public appetite for
The public believes everyone – from consumers
change over the environmental to manufacturers and retailers – is responsible for
consequences of plastic waste. tackling plastic waste.

Helping consumers “to do the right thing” is a key

element of the Pact’s strategy.

The UK Plastics Pact | ELIMINATING PROBLEM PLASTICS V2 2

Overview why? First steps the eight to go WHAT’S NEXT? the future appendix

first steps

DEFINING ‘problematic and

unnecessary plastics’?
Top retailers, brands and other We all need to move away from a linear approach Pact members are striving to eliminate these
of take, make and dispose of plastic, towards a items by the end of 2020 where technically
businesses, determined to circular system where plastic is valued and never possible.
make ‘significant progress’ enters our natural environment.
There are some necessary exemptions and
in this area, joined The UK Plastic packaging can be problematic or for some items it will take longer. For example,
Plastics Pact. unnecessary: technological developments are required for
straws used in cartons, expanded polystyrene in
Their first trailblazing action was to sign up to four – If its use is avoidable or reusable options
non-food packaging, or polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
actionable and measurable targets, with Target 1 are available;
in pharmaceutical packaging. There are also social
being to “eliminate problematic or unnecessary – if it’s not recyclable or hampers the recycling
and medical reasons to consider, for example
single-use plastic packaging through redesign, process; or
the provision of plastic straws for those with a
innovation or alternative (reuse) delivery models – if it pollutes our environment. specific disability.
by 2025”.
An action group of UK Plastics Pact members
defined the term problematic or unnecessary
The UK Plastics Pact targets: as “Single-use plastic items where consumption
1. Eliminate problematic or unnecessary could be avoided through elimination, reuse or
single-use packaging through redesign, replacement and items that, post-consumption,
innovation or alternative (reuse) delivery commonly do not enter recycling and composting
models. systems, or where they do, are not recycled due to
their format, composition or size.”
2. 100% of plastic packaging to be
reusable, recyclable or compostable. This approach, of having a more circular system,
3. 70% of plastic packaging effectively recycled anticipated elements of the UK Government’s
or composted. recent ban on the the distribution and sale of
4. 30% average recycled content across plastic straws, drink stirrers and cotton buds in its
all plastic packaging. 2018 consultation; as well as the European Union’s
Single-Use Plastic Directive agreed in Spring 2019.

The UK Plastics Pact | ELIMINATING PROBLEM PLASTICS V2 3

Overview why? First steps the eight to go WHAT’S NEXT? the future appendix

The eight to go
The UK Plastics Pact has
identified the following plastic
items to be eliminated.
Disposable All polystyrene
This is because there are no practical options,
plastic cutlery packaging
such as better design or smarter recycling
systems, which can make them environmentally
acceptable.

*The scope of elimination for polystyrene packaging is Along with straws and stirrers, disposable plastic Polystyrene is not recycled in the UK. It is often
only household (post-consumer) material that is cutlery are frequently found littered on beaches. used for food takeaway containers and yoghurt
collected by local authorities. Some companies provide
take-back services for expanded polystyrene of Wherever possible reusable cutlery should be pots and to package white goods like microwaves.
consumer goods e.g. packaging removed and taken used, otherwise alternative materials adopted. Alternative materials can be used.*
back by the company for recycling at the point of
delivery. In this case, the material is out of scope for
elimination since it is not entering the household
recycling.

The UK Plastics Pact | ELIMINATING PROBLEM PLASTICS V2 4

Overview why? First steps the eight to go WHAT’S NEXT? the future appendix

The eight to go The distribution and sale of the

three items listed on this page
are to be banned from April 2020
following the UK Government’s
2018 consultation.

cotton buds with Plastic stirrers plastic straws

plastic stems

Cotton buds are often found during beach clean In many cases plastic stirrers could be substituted In most circumstances the use of a plastic
ups. While citizens need to play their part and not with an alternative material, or even a metal spoon straw is unnecessary and they don’t get recycled.
flush these down the toilet, there is no reason that that can be washed and reused. Alternative materials can be used. The recent
the plastic cannot be substituted with card or government ban will include exemptions to
other fibrous materials. ensure that those people with medical needs are
able to continue to access plastic straws.

The UK Plastics Pact | ELIMINATING PROBLEM PLASTICS V2 5

Overview why? First steps the eight to go WHAT’S NEXT? the future appendix

The eight to go
Oxo-degradables that PVC packaging Disposable plastic
break down to create plates and bowls
microplastics

Oxo-degradable plastics fragment into PVC is a plastic which is problematic when used for Disposable plastic plates and bowls are designed
microplastics which contribute to plastic pollution. and within packaging because it is not recyclable and to be used just once. They should be replaced with
This material is difficult for citizens to identify. also contaminates plastic which could otherwise reusable options.
We should explore reusable alternatives wherever be recycled. It can be found in various forms, such as
possible and otherwise consider compostable meat trays, plastic film around mushrooms or blister
or recyclable plastics. packs; there is little way for citizens to identify it.
Outside of packaging it has many valid applications,
for example for doors and windows. In these
situations it is often widely recycled.
The UK Plastics Pact | ELIMINATING PROBLEM PLASTICS V2 6
Overview why? First steps the eight to go WHAT’S NEXT? the future appendix

what next?

and that’s not all

To maintain momentum and These include drinks bottles, non-detectable black This means that if the reasons why an item is
plastic packaging which doesn’t get picked up in considered ‘problematic or unnecessary’ can be
underline this world-leading the recycling process, and a range of flexible overcome – or if the benefits of its use outweigh
initiative, more items and plastics and films in everyday use (see table in the impact – members may decide not to
materials are now being actively appendix for full list). eliminate it.
investigated. Members are For each of these items, Pact members will assess
required to develop and adopt whether the following actions can justify
continuing use:
solutions to address the issues
through reuse, redesign and/or – A
 voidable – can it be avoided in the context
smarter recycling by 2025. within which it is being used?

– Replacement with reusable or alternative

options

– Design – selecting the type of plastic, design

and manufacture to increase recyclability
(using recycled content where practicable)

– Investment in labelling, messaging and

collections/recycling infrastructure to boost
retrieval and recycling

The UK Plastics Pact | ELIMINATING PROBLEM PLASTICS V2 7

Overview why? First steps the eight to go WHAT’S NEXT? the future appendix

the future

a considered approach
The further list of items to be UK Plastics Pact members have started to address
the issue of problematic or unnecessary plastics
investigated will be kept under for example removing plastic packaging where
constant review by The UK it is not deemed necessary and redesigning
Plastics Pact to ensure the target packaging to be recyclable.
of eliminating problematic or A considered approach is critical in developing
unnecessary plastic packaging the evidence to ensure there are no unintended
consequences, and this evidence will be gathered
is met by 2025.
and published. Pact members will be reporting
progress against the specific items already
identified as part of Target 1. It will be the
responsibility of all Pact members to undertake
the actions that work for their businesses,
supported by WRAP.

The UK Plastics Pact | ELIMINATING PROBLEM PLASTICS V2 8

Overview why? First steps the eight to go WHAT’S NEXT? the future appendix

For the list of items on the following pages,

appendix members are developing and adopting

Items to be investigated solutions to address the issues through reuse,

redesign and/or smarter recycling by 2025

WHY THE ITEM IS CONSIDERED PROBLEMATIC

PLASTIC ITEM KEY ACTIONS FOR MEMBERS TO CONSIDER1
OR UNNECESSARY

Plastic bags, Avoidable. Avoid where possible.

including carrier
Limited film recycling. Encourage customers to avoid them.
bags and fresh
produce bags Motivate and educate citizens to recycle, including through on-pack
labelling and link to RecycleNow.com to help people find out where
to recycle them.

Plastic film In some cases film packaging could be avoided where food Trials and research to investigate when packaging is required,
packaging e.g. waste doesn’t increase as a result. whilst ensuring that food waste will not increase as a result.
crisps, fruit and
Film recycling in the UK is limited. Explore particular opportunities where providing loose produce
vegetable film
may help reduce food waste.
packaging
Expansion/development and promotion (including through on-
pack labelling) of film recycling, including through supermarket
collection points.

Multi-layer non- Not widely recycled. Redesign to be recyclable.

recyclable plastics
Invest in/improve non-mechanical recycling infrastructure.
e.g. pouches

Multi-pack rings for Potentially avoidable. Redesign where possible e.g. using glue.
canned drinks
Not currently recycled. Explore options to recycle with other plastic films.

1 Note that all actions are subject to avoiding unintended consequences,

e.g. increasing environmental impact through alternative choices and/or redesign

The UK Plastics Pact | ELIMINATING PROBLEM PLASTICS V2 9

Overview why? First steps the eight to go WHAT’S NEXT? the future appendix

appendix

Items to be investigated (CONT.)

WHY THE ITEM IS CONSIDERED PROBLEMATIC
PLASTIC ITEM KEY ACTIONS FOR MEMBERS TO CONSIDER1
OR UNNECESSARY

Multi-veg/fruit net In some cases could be avoided. Avoid where possible – offer loose options.
bags e.g. for citrus
Not currently recycled. Explore design options – recyclable or compostable materials.
and some
vegetables

Multi-buy bulk Not widely recycled. Reduce any excess packaging (e.g. head space) to be fit for purpose
(secondary) and remove any unnecessary layers of packaging.
Packaging sometimes excessive.
wrapping e.g.
Investigate innovative ways of selling multiples/larger packs to
multipack crisps
consumers that avoid additional packaging.
packaging and tins

PVC cling film PVC is a contaminant to the recycling process. Adoption of non-PVC cling film.
Encourage citizens to use re-usable options.

Bottle tops/caps Frequently not recycled as the public are unsure about what Redesign bottles to tether bottle tops to the bottle2.
to do with these items. These items can also be lost in the
Advise the public on replacing tops before recycling.
recycling process due to their small size.
Invest in recycling processes to collect loose bottle tops.
Item frequently littered.

1 Note that all actions are subject to avoiding unintended consequences,

e.g. increasing environmental impact through alternative choices and/or redesign
2 EU Directive

The UK Plastics Pact | ELIMINATING PROBLEM PLASTICS V2 10

Overview why? First steps the eight to go WHAT’S NEXT? the future appendix

appendix

Items to be investigated (CONT.)

WHY THE ITEM IS CONSIDERED PROBLEMATIC
PLASTIC ITEM KEY ACTIONS FOR MEMBERS TO CONSIDER1
OR UNNECESSARY

Single-use drinks Not always recycled, particularly away from home. Provide reuse options where appropriate.
bottles
Item frequently littered. Motivate and educate citizens to recycle (with caps attached),
including through on-pack labelling and link to RecycleNow.com
Potential for reuse/refill options in some circumstances.
to help people find out where to recycle them.

Non-recyclable Carbon black plastic is not detected for recycling by Brands and retailers are advised to move away from non-recyclable
coloured plastics equipment used in the sorting/recycling process. carbon black plastic into clear plastic, alternative colours or
(including carbon detectable black by the end of 2019.
black plastic e.g.
Recyclers are requested to adjust their equipment to ensure
some ready-meal
‘detectable colours’ are sorted for recycling by the end 2019.
trays, premium
meat trays,
some prepacked
fish trays)

Fruit and veg The use of plastic could be avoided in some instances Conduct trials and research to investigate alternatives, whilst
punnets/trays e.g. where food waste would not increase as a result. considering other environmental impacts, such as increased
grape, tomato, carbon and increased food waste as result of changes.
Not all are recycled.
mushroom etc.
Consider selling some items loose where this doesn’t create
food waste.
Invest in UK recycling for plastic PET trays.
Motivate and educate citizens to recycle, including through on-pack
labelling and link to RecycleNow.com to help people find out where
to recycle them.

1 Note that all actions are subject to avoiding unintended consequences,

e.g. increasing environmental impact through alternative choices and/or redesign

The UK Plastics Pact | ELIMINATING PROBLEM PLASTICS V2 11

Overview why? First steps the eight to go WHAT’S NEXT? the future appendix

appendix

Items to be investigated (CONT.)

WHY THE ITEM IS CONSIDERED PROBLEMATIC
PLASTIC ITEM KEY ACTIONS FOR MEMBERS TO CONSIDER1
OR UNNECESSARY

Internal plastic trays Sometimes avoidable. Avoid where possible or design to ensure they are recyclable.
e.g. trays for
Can be made from plastics that are not recyclable. Motivate and educate citizens to recycle, including through on-pack
premium biscuits
labelling and link to RecycleNow.com to help people find out where
to recycle them.

Disposable plastic Designed to be used just once. Explore re-usable alternatives.

cups
Often not recycled, particularly when used outside of the Improved recycling collections.
home due to lack of recycling collections.

Fruit/veg stickers Contaminates compost. Substitute materials, e.g. compostable.

Not recycled. Avoid where possible.

Plastic cup lids These lids are often made from a type of plastic which is not Redesign with a substitute polymer, e.g. Polypropylene.
(from hot beverage recyclable. They are also often not recycled by citizens.
Provision of recycling services, possibly included in coffee
cups)
cup recycling.
Explain and motivate citizens to recycle where appropriate.
Offer reuse alternatives.

1 Note that all actions are subject to avoiding unintended consequences,

e.g. increasing environmental impact through alternative choices and/or redesign

The UK Plastics Pact | ELIMINATING PROBLEM PLASTICS V2 12

Overview why? First steps the eight to go WHAT’S NEXT? the future appendix

appendix

Items to be investigated (CONT.)

WHY THE ITEM IS CONSIDERED PROBLEMATIC
PLASTIC ITEM KEY ACTIONS FOR MEMBERS TO CONSIDER1
OR UNNECESSARY

Plastic coffee pods Generally not recycled because of their small size Redesign. Possibly use compostable plastic.
and also because they contain coffee.
Develop recycling infrastructure.
Explore options for pod-less coffee machines.

Milk and salad Potentially avoidable. Avoid where possible and provide re-usable alternatives
dressing jiggers, e.g. jug of milk, sauce dispensers.
Often made from plastic that is not recycled and items
single serving pots
are too small to be detected in the recycling process to Consider substitute materials, including investigating
and sachets e.g.
get recycled. compostable alternatives.
used in on-the-go
salads, milk sticks, Advancements in recycling sorting processes to enable detection.
condiments,
cosmetics and
samples

Tear off tamper Not recycled. Redesign to remove them or use alternative materials e.g. paper.
evident strips on
containers

Teabags These can contain or be made from non-degradable plastic Redesign to use compostable materials.
and so contaminate compost when they are recycled with
Motivate and educate citizens to place tea bags in food waste/
food waste. Non-degradable plastic is sometimes used in
composting, including through on-pack labelling.
‘normal’ tea bags, as well as those made from fabric.

1 Note that all actions are subject to avoiding unintended consequences,

e.g. increasing environmental impact through alternative choices and/or redesign

The UK Plastics Pact | ELIMINATING PROBLEM PLASTICS V2 13

Thank you
WRAP’s vision is a world in which resources The UK Plastics Pact is led by WRAP with the
are used sustainably. support of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation.
wrap.org.uk/ukplasticspact
Our mission is to accelerate the move to a
The UK Plastics Pact was co-created by the [email protected]
Ellen MacArthur Foundation and WRAP to
sustainable resource-efficient economy through accelerate the transition to a circular economy
re-inventing how we design, produce and sell for plastics in the UK and is one of the Ellen
products; re-thinking how we use and consume MacArthur Foundation’s national and regional
products; and re-defining what is possible implementation initiatives around the world.
through reuse and recycling. The opinions expressed, and materials made
WRAP available, by WRAP or EMF or The UK Plastics
Second Floor Pact signatories do not necessarily reflect the
Blenheim Court views of the other parties who are not
19 George Street responsible for the same.
Banbury
Oxon OX16 5BH

wrap.org.uk
@WRAP_UK