Pepsico-owned Walkers Crisps are to launch the UK's first nationwide crisp packet recycling scheme. Any brand of crisp packets, not just Walkers, will be accepted.
Walkers had been in talks about the scheme since the beginning of the year, and from December, consumers will be able to post used bags - in envelopes, for free - directly to a recycling company, TerraCycle.
Consumers will also be able to drop off their packets at one of hundreds of 'public access collection points' around the country.
Crisp packets, while technically recyclable, have not until this point been separated or collected for this purpose.
The packets will be cleaned, shredded and turned into small pellets which will be converted into plastic items such as benches, watering cans, and plant pots.
Walkers added that its long-term ambition is to make all of its packaging 100% recyclable, compostable or biodegradable by 2025. The company is funnelling 'significant' resources into developing the technology and infrastructure to make this happen.
