Ekoplaza, a Dutch organic supermarket chain, are promoting responsible consumption and production in food retail. Leading by example, they have created the world’s first plastic-free supermarket aisle.
Tonnes of plastic
It has been estimated that 8.3 billion tonnes of plastic have been produced as of 2017. The United Nations have warned that if current trends continue, on average there will be 12 billion tonnes of plastic waste entering our landfills and natural environment by 2050.
Leading by example
In collaboration with A Plastic Planet, Ekoplaza are leading by example in the supermarket industry when it comes to reducing waste. It came to their attention that one of the biggest contributors to plastic waste is excess food packaging – 40% of all plastic created is used on packaging alone. With only 9% of this being recycled; it became evident that the only way to tackle this problem is to go to the source.
Revealing the truth
Ekoplaza decided to create a plastic-free supermarket aisle. They are hoping to educate customers and companies in their respective industries by revealing the truth of the simplicity of plastic-free production and consumption. Their products are repackaged using bio-materials, as well as traditional materials including glass, metal and cardboard, thus disproving the common misconception that we can’t live without plastic in food and drink.
This story shows how Ekoplaza supports Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, specifically Target 12.5: “By 2030, substantially reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling and reuse.”
Ekoplaza is a Dutch chain of organic food supermarkets. They have 74 stores and in February 2018, they made headlines around the world for launching the world’s first plastic-free supermarket aisle. Ekoplaza aims to encourage everyone to enjoy a healthy, organic lifestyle.