Spar Group’s Green Initiatives: Making progress in tackling plastic waste

SOUTH AFRICA – Spar Group, a JSE-listed retailer, is taking proactive steps to mitigate the environmental impact of plastic packaging materials.

Committed to phasing out harmful plastics, the group’s efforts are poised to make a substantial contribution to reducing non-recycled multi-layered materials in oceans and landfills.

With a clear focus on circularity, Spar Group is dedicated to designing packaging that prioritizes reusability, recyclability, and recycled content.

In the past year alone, the group recycled a remarkable 19,000 tonnes of cardboard and plastic through reverse logistics operations, marking a significant reduction in its carbon footprint.

Kevin O’Brien, Sustainability Executive at Spar Group, emphasizes the company’s commitment to responsible packaging, sustainable product design, and eco-conscious processes.

“We’re actively pursuing responsible packaging, sustainable product design and eco-conscious processes that prioritize the well-being of our planet,” said O’Brien.

“We’re also highly deliberate in the development of eco-friendly initiatives and alternatives, including the utilization of responsibly sourced raw materials, all of which makes a difference in the elimination of problematic plastic.”

This includes the strategic utilization of responsibly sourced raw materials and the development of eco-friendly initiatives to eliminate problematic plastics.

Significant progress has already been achieved, with Spar-branded 2L fresh milk cartons now being 100% recyclable and crafted from 87% renewably sourced materials.

These cartons also serve as educational tools, informing shoppers about the circular economy and the importance of recycling.

The recent decision to replace colored lids with white lids on Spar fresh milk plastic bottles, aimed at facilitating recycling and aligning with circular economy principles, has earned the group prestigious recognition, including the Platinum Design Award.

Furthermore, Spar Group is repurposing brown plastic bottles into reusable shopping bags, supporting sustainability efforts and empowering local communities.

Collaborative initiatives with partners like Supercart have led to the creation of trolleys made from recycled milk bottles, diverting more waste from landfills.

As a founding member of the SA Plastics Pact, Spar Group is actively involved in initiatives aimed at creating a circular economy in South Africa.

O’Brien emphasizes that while recycling is essential, it alone will not solve the plastic waste crisis. Achieving ambitious targets will require tough decisions and substantial investments, but Spar Group is committed to leading the way towards a more sustainable future.

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