Friday 14 May 2021

GSK commits to producing a billion recyclable toothpaste tubes by 2025

GSK Consumer Healthcare (GSKCH) has announced its commitment to produce more than a billion toothpaste tubes that are recyclable by 2025 as part of its ongoing sustainability journey.

It is partnering with two global packaging suppliers to launch the fully recyclable toothpaste tubes across its specialist and science-based oral health brands, which includes Sensodyne, parodontax and Aquafresh.

Its first partnership with Albea, one of the world's largest tube manufacturers, will see GSKCH switch its toothpaste tubes from aluminium barrier laminates to the patented Greenleaf laminate while the second partnership with EPL Global will produce tubes in Platina laminate.

Both laminates have passed recycling-readiness tests set by the US-based Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) and Europe's RecyClass.

GSKCH is also collaborating with retailers and dental healthcare professionals to drive the growth of more sustainable options in oral care products globally.

Earlier this year, the company launched its first sustainable toothbrush 'Dr. Best' in Germany, made from sustainably-cultivated bamboo, with a biodegradable handle and the brush features plastic-free packaging made from recycled cardboard.

Its sustainability initiatives support GSK's new company-wide commitment to achieve a net zero impact on climate and a positive impact on nature by 2030.

Sarah McDonald, VP Sustainability, GSKCH said: “We are fighting every day to help eradicate preventable oral health problems and to provide people with better, more sustainable oral care solutions that don’t compromise on quality.

“We have made the commitment that 100% of our product packaging will be recyclable or reusable, where quality and safety permits, by 2025. This is just one part of our ongoing sustainability journey, in which we are working to address the environmental and societal barriers to everyday health.”