Co-op removes plastic from Christmas wrapping

Co-op has announced the launch of its plastic free Christmas wrapping paper range.

The retailer has removed the plastic film from around the rolls of Christmas wrap which it said has “saved almost a million pieces of plastic” as it continues its commitment to removing unnecessary plastic from its packaging and products.

Research by GWP Group* shows consumers in the UK will use 227,000 miles of wrapping paper each year and that over 1032 miles of this will end up in waste bins.

Co-op’s new look Christmas wrapping paper is fully recyclable and the retailer said it provides a “sustainable alternative to combat the huge amount of waste”.

All ribbons changed to a cellulose based plastic free material and bag handles and cracker contents were changed to paper or a more sustainable option.

Co-op has also developed new packaging for its premium range, ‘Irresistible Chocolate boxes’, which have had all plastic packaging removed, and now features a new cardboard tray.

Simon Robinson, product developer at Co-op, said: “Last year we made great strides to reduce our use of plastic in our Christmas range, and this year we have gone above and beyond, with plans to launch the most sustainable gifting range in 2022. We’re looking forward to a Christmas that will hopefully be a little more normal and the gift of giving will be back in full swing.”