The movement to reduce plastic use, including hard-to-decompose foam materials, is becoming a significant concern for many, as it impacts the environment in the long term. Nowadays, we can see that stores, restaurants, and coffee shops are increasingly turning to alternative materials such as plates, bowls, cups, and paper straws.

Recently, Tesco Lotus has also joined the movement by announcing a complete ban on all foam packaging starting from July 1, 2019. They are collaborating with SCG to recycle various types of packaging, such as used paper packaging collected from stores, which will be sent to Tesco Lotus's distribution centers for further recycling by SCG.

Ms. Salila Sihapan, Chairperson of Corporate Affairs at Tesco Lotus, stated that as a retail operator with over 2,000 branches nationwide, Tesco Lotus recognizes its role in alleviating waste problems and environmental impacts. The announcement to cease the use of all types of foam food packaging in all Tesco Lotus branches from July 1, 2019, is part of an initiative to reduce environmental impacts caused by various types of packaging, coinciding with World Environment Day on June 5. The policy aims to create sustainable, wide-ranging changes through collaboration with various sectors and comprehensive operations throughout the entire lifecycle, from packaging design, production, consumption, re-entry into the system, to recycling processes.

Waste Reduction Project Launched on World Environment Day Under the 3R Strategy:

Redesign: Designing packaging to reduce resource use
Thermoform trays made from 100% recyclable materials are being used instead of old plastic trays and films for meat and ready-to-eat fruit products. The use of thermoform trays helps reduce plastic usage by over 400 tons per year, equivalent to 26.6 million 600ml plastic bottles compared to the old plastic trays previously used. Additionally, thermoform trays are hygienic and help maintain product freshness, further reducing food waste.
Green Corner: Selling safe, environmentally friendly food packaging from the Fest brand by SCG allows customers to access alternative packaging and change their behavior away from using foam boxes or packaging made from non-recyclable materials, available at all Tesco Lotus hypermarkets nationwide.


Reduce: Reducing single-use packaging

Furthermore, Tesco Lotus will gradually transform its branches into plastic bag-free stores, starting with five express stores located near universities. In July, three more plastic bag-free stores will open on Koh Chang. Additionally, on the 4th of every month, all 2,000 Tesco Lotus branches nationwide will refrain from providing plastic bags. To assist customers who do not bring their own bags, Tesco Lotus offers a variety of reusable bags and designs starting at just 39 baht. Moreover, Tesco Lotus continues to reward customers with 50 Clubcard points every day when they refuse plastic bags.
Bring Your Own Containers policy allows customers to bring their own containers for food instead of using single-use packaging, which has been expanded to salad bars and bakery sections in all large branches. Staff are ready to assist in weighing empty containers and deducting their weight. Additionally, in express branches and food courts, customers can bring their personal cups for soft drinks, tea, coffee, and herbal water, receiving 50 Clubcard points for bringing their own containers.


Recover & Recycle: Reintroducing used packaging into a closed system for recycling
Plastic bottle and can recycling machines allow customers to return unused packaging for further recycling. Tesco Lotus plans to install additional recycling machines in the future, increasing from the current 10 machines. Customers who deposit plastic bottles and cans will receive 25 Clubcard points. Tesco Lotus has partnered with SCG to recycle plastic bottles into reusable bags, aiming to create a closed-loop system for packaging.