Spar takes on challenge to use less plastic

The world is facing an ongoing plastic crisis, with the World Economic Forum warning that single-use plastic consumption is expected to increase from 460 million tons in 2029 to about 1.2 billion tons by 2060.

So the Spar Group’s commitment to phasing out harmful plastics and its efforts to reduce the contribution of non-recycled multi-layered materials in oceans and landfills is timely.

In a statement released by the group on 28 February, it emphasised its deliberate approach to design for circularity and its commitment to designing packaging that is reusable or recyclable and contains recycled content.

“In 2023 alone, the Spar Group has recycled 19 000 tons of cardboard and plastic through reverse logistics operations.

“All carrier bags are now made from 100% recycled materials, with a minimum of 70% post-consumer waste, and are 100% recyclable, diverting about 4 000 tons of plastic waste from landfills a year. These numbers represent a 40% drop in the carbon footprint of their production,” read the statement.

Reports suggest that the Johannesburg, Tshwane and Cape Town metros have less than 10 years of useful landfill life remaining. The group’s sustainability executive, Kevin O’Brien said: “In fact, in April last year, an EWN story reported that the majority of SA’s metro landfills are left with a one to two-year lifespan at most. This is a huge concern that needs to be tackled head-on if we are to curb environmental degradation.”

Further commenting on the steps taken by the group to advance its sustainable packaging O’Brien said: “We’re actively pursuing responsible packaging, sustainable product design and eco-conscious processes that prioritise the well-being of our planet.

“We’re also highly deliberate in the development of eco-friendly initiatives and alternatives, including the utilisation of responsibly sourced raw materials, all of which make a difference in the elimination of problematic plastic,” said O’Brien.