Awesome Eco Change: Introduction
Welcome to this week’s Awesome Eco Change update, where we bring you the best in sustainability news! While mainstream media loves focusing on the negatives, we’re here to highlight the positives that often get overlooked. Research shows that we naturally gravitate toward bad news due to our evolutionary instincts. But today, let’s flip that narrative and dive into the inspiring efforts to make real change.
In this edition, we explore three fantastic initiatives that are making waves. M&S’s ambitious plastic reduction, EasyJet’s innovative steps towards decarbonising aviation, and Patagonia’s commitment to forest protection. Read on to discover how these trailblazers are shaping a greener future!
M&S Removes Millions of Pieces of Plastic Packaging
M&S has taken a significant step toward reducing plastic waste, removing more than two million additional pieces of plastic packaging from its stores.
This effort includes cutting out plastic cutlery, sandwich bags, and other single-use items. This aligns with the company’s broader sustainability goals.
By switching to paper-based alternatives and encouraging reusable options, M&S is significantly reducing the environmental impact of its packaging materials.
M&S Food’s head of packaging Karen Graley said:
“Reducing plastic packaging is a top priority for M&S. We’re committed to doing the right thing by reducing plastic at scale and finding new ways to package produce. This has helped us remove more than 80 million units of plastic from our supply chain.”
This initiative is part of M&S’s plan to achieve 100% reusable, recyclable, or compostable packaging by 2025, demonstrating their commitment to sustainability. It also serves as a powerful example for other retailers to follow suit, showcasing that positive change is not only possible but achievable on a large scale.
EasyJet Partners with Jet Zero for Aviation Sustainability
In an exciting partnership with Jet Zero, EasyJet is embracing new technology that could revolutionise the aviation industry.
EasyJet’s collaboration aims to develop blended wing aircraft that will dramatically cut carbon emissions in air travel. The partnership aligns with growing consumer demand, as new research shows that 62% of Brits believe technological innovation is key to decarbonising aviation.
These next-generation aircraft promise to reduce fuel consumption by at least 30%, thanks to their unique design that integrates the wings with the body of the plane. Johan Lundgren, Managing Director of EasyJet, said:
“We believe in a future where flying doesn’t have to come at a high environmental cost. This partnership is a big step towards making sustainable aviation a reality.”
This collaboration highlights how technological advancements can pave the way for more eco-friendly transportation, offering hope for a future where air travel contributes far less to climate change.
Patagonia’s Commitment to Protect Endangered Forests
Patagonia has taken bold action to protect endangered forests by committing to sustainable packaging solutions in partnership with Canopy, a non-profit environmental organisation.
This partnership aims to eliminate materials sourced from ancient and endangered forests from their packaging supply chain by 2025, transitioning to sustainable alternatives like recycled fibres and agricultural residues.
Patagonia’s mission aligns with Canopy’s “Pack4Good” initiative, which aims to save forests critical for biodiversity and climate resilience. Jennifer Patrick, packaging & branding director at Patagonia, said:
“As part of our goal to build the best product and constantly improve everything we do, we are taking steps to review and develop new, more-responsible packaging materials in partnership with Canopy.”
This move shows how businesses can take responsibility for their environmental footprint beyond their products, sending a clear message to the industry that sustainable practices are a must.
Awesome Eco Change: Wrap Up
These three stories reflect how businesses across different sectors are making awesome eco changes that inspire and drive forward sustainability. Whether it’s M&S reducing plastic waste, EasyJet revolutionising air travel, or Patagonia protecting our forests, each effort contributes to a brighter, greener future.
We encourage the Play It Green community to embrace our three step solution to climate change. Reducing footprints, repairing the planet by planting more trees, mangroves, and sea kelp, creating employment and raising funds for those in need. Let’s create a circle of positive change together, sending ripples of inspiration around the world.
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