People purchasing washing-up liquid are being advised to change their buying habits next year in a move to mitigate the devastating effects on the world’s oceans. Typically, washing-up liquid is sold in plastic bottles, with UK households consuming millions of them annually.
However, according to Ecover, a significant portion of these bottles are not recycled, with less than half being collected and a mere 7% actually being recycled. Alarmingly, 12.7 million tonnes of plastic bottles end up in the ocean each year, causing immense harm to marine ecosystems.
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Ecover is now urging consumers to opt for refills instead of purchasing new plastic bottles of washing-up liquid. Ecover stated: “In 2016, less than half of all plastic bottles were collected for recycling and only 7% of those were turned into new bottles.”
“The resulting impact on waterways and marine life is, to put it bluntly, horrifying – with an estimated 12.7 million tonnes ending up in oceans each year.”
“Why melt a bottle to make a bottle, when you’ve already got a bottle? Does seem kinda crazy when you say it out loud. But where to start with that reusable plastic bottle? ” “Be it washing-up liquid, laundry detergent or loo cleaner, you can refill it at one of over 700 Ecover refill stations. Find them at your local health food store, zero waste shop or some bigger supermarkets.”, reports the Express.
Consumers preferring Fairy liquid also have an eco-friendly alternative available.
Fairy has introduced a refill carton available on Ocado for £4.50, enabling thrifty eco-conscious shoppers to top-up their standard Fairy liquid bottles ‘more than twice. ‘ The brand claims: “Fairy Max Power antibacterial washing up liquid refill carton allows you to refill your 370ml upside-down bottle more than twice and helps you to save up to 85% of the plastic. The refill is recyclable.”
They add: “The Max Power bottle with no flip cap gives you Fairy’s ultimately convenient cleaning experience. It helps you get out of the kitchen faster by making washing dishes fast and easy.”