Tesco Begins Zero-Waste Packaging Trial in England

Tesco has announced it will begin trialling its zero-waste shopping service in 10 selected stores in the East of England.

The trial aims to increase use of recyclable plastic packaging, and comes after a year-long online pilot which allowed customers to return packaging from their doorstep.

The trial will allow customers to buy household goods in reusable packaging, which can be returned to the store to be recycled and used again.

The trial will apply to 88 popular goods, including Persil washing up powder, Carex handwash and Tetley Tea teabags.

However, versions of these products which utilise single-use packaging will continue to be available for purchase at the 10 stores.

Consumer expert Kate Hardcastle told the BBC in response to the scheme, “For many years, the independent small businesses have been leading the way on reducing single-waste plastic, but we know bigger retailers can bring an economy of scale to the consumer, which will help with more affordable prices and more access.

“The best outcome for our environment is if small and big retailers can all trade successfully with far greater ethical packaging and products on sale.”