EUROPE. Gebr. Heinemann has reported a -70% reduction in the number of single-use plastic bags used last year at stores participating in a pilot sustainability project.
The retailer has partnered with marine conservation organisation OceanCare in an initiative to reduce its plastic waste, which has a harmful effect on the environment.
Gebr. Heinemann introduced a fee of 30 cents on all single-use plastic, paper and ZIP bags across its 14 German and Austrian duty free sites. All proceeds generated from the campaign are invested in OceanCare projects.
This led to the dramatic reduction in the number of disposable bags used in 2017, from a total of around 8.8 million in 2016 to 2.5 million last year.
By contrast, the number of customers using reusable bags increased by around +350% in 2017 compared to the previous year (from almost 21,400 to almost 96,700 bags). A total yearly donation of €142,000 was made to OceanCare.
“Ecology and economy are not mutually exclusive, they are two sides of the same coin. We see responsibility for the environment as our duty,” said Gebr. Heinemann Co-Owner Claus Heinemann.
“We are delighted that our joint initiative with OceanCare allows us to contribute to the strengthening of our passengers’ awareness of the issue of environmental protection.
“However, while we are pleased with our success we are not yet satisfied. We are treating our ‘plastic bag project’ exactly as all other areas within our business: our modus operandi is to move forward, be creative and proactive, and keep looking for further improvements. We will not only work hard to further improve our services, but also for a continued reduction of plastic bags, change to alternative materials and support of a change in consumer behaviour.”
Following the pilot phase in Germany and Austria, the campaign is being extended to additional Heinemann Duty Free sites in 2018. The 30 cents fee for single-use bags has been implemented in Bratislava, Slovakia and Ljubljana, Slovenia this month.
As reported, Gebr. Heinemann teamed up with bag manufacturer LOQI to introduce an eco-friendly alternative to plastic bags, priced at €4.90. Reusable bags made from 50% recyclable materials are also available for €2.
OceanCare recently presented its ‘I Care’ campaign at a United Nations campaign, with Claus Heinemann taking part in the campaign film. It can be viewed above.
