Wilko facemask recycling scheme set to reclaim 400k masks by end of 2021
Estimates predict that an incredible 400K facemasks could be recycled by the end of the wilko #reclaimthemask scheme, which is equivalent to 966kg of single-use plastic.
Early this year, the scheme was introduced to supply shoppers with a safe and innovative way to recycle their single-use face masks. The scheme has proven very successful since launching in April; and has since been until the end of 2021. Although facemasks are no longer compulsory in certain places, plenty of masks are still being worn & becoming pollutants in the environment. Wilko customers can continue to recycle their used facemasks at the 150 participating stores up and down the country. Customers can even use the Scan2Recycle QR on the box to see the recycling process in action.
The good news doesn't stop there; the #ReclaimTheMask scheme has been Shortlisted for 'Best Environmental and Sustainability Campaign' after being recognised by The Corporate Engagement Awards!
Disposable masks are made primarily from polypropylene plastic and are commonly sent directly to landfills, incineration or become pollution in our waterways. The combined materials, metal nose clips & elastic ears make them a complicated item to recycle. Still, innovative recyclers ReWorked www.reworked.com (part of MyGroup www.mygroupltd.com ) can fully recycle the masks as well as other PPE and even lateral flow tests.
Once collected in-store and sent to MyGroup, the PPE waste is quarantined for 72 hours before being shredded. The shredded facemasks are mixed with other recycled plastics, heated to 200C+ and pressed into solid recycled plastic boards.
These 100% recycled plastic boards are used as building materials, made into shelters, and some even become children's furniture and donated to schools across the UK.
"It's a relief to see how many single-use facemasks the #ReclaimTheMask scheme has diverted from landfill and the ocean. These masks are so often polluting the natural environment, but hopefully, due to the scheme's exposure, the public is more aware of how to dispose of their masks. Nothing should come at the cost of the planet. Although PPE is essential, it's great to see people supporting safe & innovative ways to recycle these typically hard to recycle plastics". - Shona Stephenson, ReWorked
ReWorked together with Scan2Recycle are partnered with Wilko on the scheme to ensure face masks are safely recycled, saving tons of plastic pollution from ending up in landfill or incineration.
Since the pandemic began, there has been an intense increase in PPE pollution, but thanks to the collaborative effort from these brands and the public, millions of single-use face masks have been diverted from polluting the environment.