NEWS EXTRA


THE WAR ON PLASTIC: RETAILERS NEED TO “STEP UP”


The UK Government taking a serious look at plastic distribution, as the damage to our environment continues to grow. Kiran Grewal speaks to businesses who have made positive changes to their models and finds out how becoming more eco-friendly has increased opportunity.


very real threat to our environment and marine life, DIY and home improvement businesses have been taking steps to reduce their waste and promote a positive message of environmental responsibility across the sector. Environment secretary Michael Gove spoke out this week condemning the use of single-use plastic and will be launching a consultation of the government’s plan to ban the distribution and sale of plastic straws, drink stirrers and cotton buds from England. Mr Gove said: “Our precious oceans and wildlife within need urgent protection from the devastation throw-away plastic items can cause. I commend retailers, bars and restaurants that have already


T 8 DIY WEEK 26 OCTOBER 2018


he issue of single- use plastic waste is fast becoming a prominent topic in the industry and, as the material poses a


committed to removing plastic straws and stirrers, but we recognise we need to do more.”


Hug Rug UK marketing and communications manager Chris Green said: “It is no longer enough to simply reduce and recycle to protect the environment. What is needed is


sustainability; meeting


the needs of the present without compromising the future. “Our two Yorkshire-based mills manufacture over 80% of our products using recycled materials and sustainable manufacturing methods wherever possible. We use cleaner/greener electricity sourced from wind, solar and hydro pumps and we are proud to be a zero to landfill company.


“In 2008 we launched Hug Rug, our range of eco-friendly indoor barrier mats. The award-winning mats are made using recycled materials, including recycled cotton in our super-soft absorbent cotton face, recycled plastic bottles


to create a tough membrane that bonds everything together, recycled plastic


and we re-use water throughout the manufacturing process.”


“It is estimated that by 2050 there will be more plastic in the ocean than sea life.”


Consumers have expressed that they are more likely to support a company with proper waste management, and one that


is


devoted to protecting the planet and its environment. “Since launching Hug Rug, we have received a fabulous response from our customers – not only within the UK but across the world – who have bought into the product


to create non-slip backing


and what we are trying to do as a manufacturer,” said Mr Green. “Feedback from customers has been that they, themselves, are keen to be supporting businesses that are doing their bit for the environment, and I believe, with all the latest news surrounding the desire


single-use plastics, to support products


like ours is becoming more and more evident. Being manufactured using recycled materials is a unique selling point that sets Hug Rug apart from our competitors. This helps us when selling into our trade customers, whilst this also helps those customers when they sell to the end consumer. The sales figures over the years show how successful the product and the brand have become and are key for the business going forward.”


Every day customers will always like the idea of being environmentally conscious, as long as they don’t have to give up quality and convenience, so


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