ACS (the Association of Convenience Stores) is supporting a new campaign set to pilot new ways to improve recycling rates of food and drink packaging on-the-go.
#LeedsByExample is a campaign launched by environmental behaviour change charity Hubbub and recycling compliance scheme Ecosurety. The campaign aims to improve recycling rates through a unique partnership of large businesses, new ground-breaking technology and engaging communications activities.
The scheme will be piloted in Leeds City Centre from September 2018, running in conjunction with Leeds City Council. Results from the trial will be shared openly with the aim of inspiring a national roll-out of the most successful elements.
ACS chief executive James Lowman said: “Improving recycling rates and making responsible environmental choices are a top priority for convenience retailers, with stores already playing their part in reducing the amount of plastic bags handed out through a nationwide voluntary charging scheme. We are contributing time and money to the #LeedsByExample pilot, because we want to explore the most effective ways of tackling the waste generated by food-to-go packaging, coffee cups and plastic bottles.”
The food-to-go industry is worth £17.4bn a year and this is projected to increase to over £23bn by 2022. Recent research by ReCoup found that only 42% of local authorities provide on-the-go recycling facilities.
#LeedsByExample aims to improve recycling on the street, in local offices, shopping centres, universities and transport hubs.
For further information on the initiative and to get involved, visit http://www.hubbub.org.uk/join-leeds-by-example-collaboration/
