Packaging waste recently joined the group, and textiles is earmarked for future legislation. But at Valpak, we are helping an array of businesses to implement voluntary compliance in areas ranging from Zero Waste to Landfill to cotton production. So what initiatives are available for those looking to ‘go beyond’?


Zero Waste to Landfill When it comes to costs, Zero Waste To Landfill (ZWTL) is a no-brainer – less waste means fewer collections and lower bills. And, with Landfill Tax set to increase to £126.15 by 2025/26, avoiding sending waste to landfill makes even more financial sense.


To achieve ZWTL, organisations need to be certified. Many certification bodies offer tiered systems, such as gold or silver levels, but Valpak certification makes a clear distinction – we believe genuine ZWTL involves the diversion of all eligible waste from landfill. For businesses where ZWTL isn’t feasible due to logistical challenges, such as those in remote locations, we suggest Zero Waste Avoidance to Landfill instead.


Monitoring and data management ZWTL relies on a clear audit trail, but the effectiveness of any initiative can only be gauged by comparing a baseline against improvements. Valpak’s packaging database is the largest in the UK. It is used to inform government policy as well as helping us to model the impact of design changes for businesses. So, when it comes to tools for recording and analysing data, we appreciate the complexity and understand the need for a streamlined approach.


For those aiming to set goals for a more sustainable supply chain, prepare for upcoming legislation or report to stakeholders, collecting and centralising data is the first step. For example, our Rio platform sets a baseline for all aspects of environmental impact, from carbon footprint to waste management. From here, it is possible to track progression across the whole organisation.


Employee engagement The success of any sustainability initiative rests with the engagement of stakeholders. When the goal is to improve recycling in the workplace, the key often lies with employees, so finding a way to incentivise them can make a real difference.


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One proven technique uses rewards to encourage people. The Bower app, which is free to download, rewards users with cash, coupons and donations to charity. Bower reports that 48% of users recycle more packaging thanks to its app. Valpak’s recycle-more bank locator is a key feature of the site, helping householders to find local recycling facilities.


Textiles With an estimated £140m worth of textiles sent to UK landfills each year, it is not surprising that textiles waste has been under the spotlight. The EU has voted in favour of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) legislation, and from the end of this month, schemes must be set up for the separate collection of textiles. While we do not yet have this legislation in the UK, many brands are working with partners to address the key issues.


Reconomy is home to a number of companies that engage with the textiles supply chain. To bring their expertise together, we formed Redress, which combines horizon scanning, data management, environmental compliance, omni-channel takeback and repair services.


Product takeback France already has an EPR scheme in place for textiles, as well as for a range of products such as furniture and DIY equipment. In coming years, we can expect to see similar schemes developing around the world, along with a call for greater producer involvement.


But there is no need to wait for government intervention. Even before vape takeback became law, Valpak’s takeback scheme was providing an innovative solution to a problematic hazardous item; the National Cup Recycling Scheme has brought together high street brands to recycle 204 million cups since April 2018.


These initiatives reduce waste, ensure that it is recycled responsibly, and engage customers and staff. And our experience shows there really is no product or waste that cannot be managed more responsibly. Businesses may need guidance around design or logistics, but with the systems in place, we can manage any waste effectively and responsibly.


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