DS Smith says it has removed over 270 million pieces of plastic in the UK, reaching the figure ahead of schedule.
The packaging firm says it has removed 274m pieces of plastic, working with the likes of FMCG brands and retailers such as Premier Foods and Europe Snacks. It has hit this mark 16 months ahead of schedule.
DS Smith collaborated with Europe Snacks on a packing project to reduce its CO2 emissions, resulting in a drop in its carbon footprint by 23%. It also collaborated with Premier Foods on its Aquaman wow display, replacing plastic rivets with recycled brown inner liners.
As a result, the display is now 100% recyclable and over 200g lighter, DS Smith said.
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As of May 2024, DS Smith has replaced over 1.2 billion pieces of plastic across its international markets, as it looks to make its practices more environmentally friendly.
The UK leads the way, having replaced over 274 million pieces of plastic alone.
DS Smith UK managing director, Paul Clarke, said: “But it is important to note that if our customers are to remove plastics at scale and at pace, they need the right regulatory framework around them. What we need are stronger, harmonised regulations that level the playing field, to help businesses move away from plastic.”
