MIGROS
Retail co-operative finally starts plastics collection in Switzerland
 The collection bag is available in three sizes – 17 l, 35 l and 60 l, and cost CHF 0.90, 1.70 and 2.50, respectively (Photo: Migros) |
Almost a year later than originally planned, Migros (Zurich / Switzerland; www.migros.ch), Switzerland’s largest retailer with sales of CHF 29.82 bn (EUR 27.2 bn) in 2020, has started collecting plastic packaging in Central Switzerland (see Plasteurope.com of 30.06.2020). Since 3 May, consumers have been able to purchase collection bags for returning their plastics waste to one of more than 40 Migros outlets in the region.
The free, separate collections for PET beverage bottles will, however, remain; PET containers and bottles are not to be returned in the bags. Additionally, Migros is accepting all plastic packaging, including carry bags, stretch, shrink and cling film, yoghurt pots, trays and containers for dairy products, detergents, and cleaning agents.
The Swiss waste associations with which the retail co-op is working on this project welcomed the intention of Migros to use the recyclate in its packaging in the future. The associations were also convinced by the Migros plan to transport the collected materials, without additional journeys, by using reverse logistics.
The free, separate collections for PET beverage bottles will, however, remain; PET containers and bottles are not to be returned in the bags. Additionally, Migros is accepting all plastic packaging, including carry bags, stretch, shrink and cling film, yoghurt pots, trays and containers for dairy products, detergents, and cleaning agents.
The Swiss waste associations with which the retail co-op is working on this project welcomed the intention of Migros to use the recyclate in its packaging in the future. The associations were also convinced by the Migros plan to transport the collected materials, without additional journeys, by using reverse logistics.
Facilities for recycling 38,000 t/y
The collected material is taken by Inno Recycling (Eschlikon / Switzerland; www.innorecycling.ch) and sent for sorting. Inno Plastics (Eschlikon; www.innoplastics.ch) then further processes the sorted material and produces regranulate from it. The sister companies have so far operated plants for the recycling of 38,000 t/y of plastics, from which, among other things, 16,000 t of regranulate is produced every year.
Shortly after being announced, the project had initially been postponed indefinitely around mid-2020. Swiss media reported that Migros had been too late in seeking concessions from the cantons and municipalities, which until now have had a monopoly on municipal waste.
Migros’ commitment to reduce plastics usage and waste is focused on avoidance, reuse and recycling. For instance, “Aproz” mineral water or “Potz” detergent from Mibelle are already offered in bottles made of recycled materials. Additionally, Migros is expanding its unpackaged range and introducing reusable packaging and more filling stations at its outlets.
Shortly after being announced, the project had initially been postponed indefinitely around mid-2020. Swiss media reported that Migros had been too late in seeking concessions from the cantons and municipalities, which until now have had a monopoly on municipal waste.
Migros’ commitment to reduce plastics usage and waste is focused on avoidance, reuse and recycling. For instance, “Aproz” mineral water or “Potz” detergent from Mibelle are already offered in bottles made of recycled materials. Additionally, Migros is expanding its unpackaged range and introducing reusable packaging and more filling stations at its outlets.
13.05.2021 Plasteurope.com [247622-0]
Published on 13.05.2021
German version of this article...