ALDI is trialling a blister pack recycling scheme for its own-label medicines in what the retailer said is a UK supermarket first.
The retailer has partnered with TerraCycle for the initiative, which will look to encourage customers to recycle their empty medicine packets made from plastic and aluminium foil.
TerraCycle will convert the materials, which would otherwise be disposed of in general waste, into a recycled raw material which can then be used in the production of new products – such as nuts and bolts from the aluminium, or plastic waste bins, and outdoor furniture, Aldi explained.
The trial runs nationwide and will help Aldi assess customer demand for the recycling solution. Aldi customers can send their empty blister packs via any Royal Mail Post Office or postbox in an envelope with a Freepost shipping label, which can be accessed via the Aldi website.
Luke Emery, plastics and packaging director at Aldi UK, said, “We are committed to reducing our impact on the environment and continue to look for new ways to promote recycling wherever possible. We hope our customers will get involved in the trial and embrace this new way of recycling their empty blister packets.”
Julien Tremblin, general manager at TerraCycle Europe, commented, “The removal of pharmaceutical packaging from landfill and incineration remains a key focus. We are delighted to work with Aldi on this new medicine blister pack recycling scheme, which will enable the creation of a more circular plastic packaging chain.”
