Crisp packet recycling scheme launched after backlash for Walkers

WALKERS HAS won the backing of Environment Secretary Michael Gove as it launches a crisp packet recycling scheme in response to a public campaign against plastic waste.

Campaigners had called on consumers to post the non-recyclable crisp bags back to the manufacturer and celebrate their environmentally-conscious act on social media.

Now Walkers is launching a free scheme, which it describes as a nationwide first, to recycle the packets of any crisp brand in response to the backlash.

Snackers will be asked to send their bags to recycling firm TerraCycle, which will shred them into plastic pellets to be used in everyday items, like outdoor furniture and trays.

Mr Gove said: “As the custodians of our planet, we must take action now to protect our oceans and wildlife from single-use plastic pollution.

“Walkers are setting a fine example with this new scheme, and I want to see other companies step-up, follow suit and reduce their environmental impact.”

As the campaign gained traction, Royal Mail had to ask customers not to post anything that is not correctly packaged after the petition against Walkers’ plastic waste soared past 300,000. Consumers took selfies of themselves posting empty crisp packets addressed to Walkers.

In the first instance, Walkers is asking customers to collect a batch of packets and drop them off at a collection points manned by volunteers – but with only 191 participating collection points around the UK this could be a long journey.