252 tonnes of plastic saved annually through making the change

This week will see Tesco replace the plastic tubs its laundry detergent pods are sold in with new recyclable cardboard packaging.

The move into card will save 252 tonnes of plastic annually, and over four million pieces of plastic across eight lines. The box contains more than 90% recycled cardboard, and is FSC certified, with a thin plastic liner inside to protect the pods. When empty, the cardboard box can be put in the normal household recycle bin.

Over 24 million people in the UK regularly buy laundry products, with more than 38% already opting for pods – compared to 28% choosing powder detergent and 34% preferring liquid or gel.

Tesco is also launching bigger packs of pods for families that offer even better value. The range will consist of three products, bio, non-bio and scented, priced at £5.50 for 40 washes.

Tesco Group Quality Director Sarah Bradbury said:“Customers are focused on getting great value right now, but we know that they still want to choose products that use less or no plastic in their packaging. This is one of many changes we’re making to reduce unnecessary plastic from products right across our stores.”

This move comes as part of Tesco’s 4Rs packaging strategy to tackle the impact of plastic waste. This means Tesco removes plastic where it can, reduces where it can’t, looks at ways to reuse more and recycle what’s left.

Since the launch of the 4Rs strategy in August 2019, Tesco has removed 1.8bn pieces of plastic and reduced packaging by more than 10,000 tonnes.

Fruit juices, crisps and cheese are among many products that are all now being produced using less plastic.