UK coffee pod recycling service reaches major milestone

UK coffee pod recycling service reaches major milestone credit Podback
Sustainability

Podback, the UK’s coffee pod recycling initiative, has achieved a significant milestone by installing its 200th local authority drop-off point. This expansion includes new facilities at three of Bristol's Household Reuse and Recycling Centres (HRRCs): St Philip’s, Hartcliffe Way, and Avonmouth.

The collaboration with Bristol Waste Company aims to enhance recycling accessibility for residents. At these centres, individuals can deposit used aluminium and plastic coffee pods into clearly marked containers without the need for special Podback bags. To streamline the process, users are encouraged to separate aluminium and plastic pods at home before visiting the centres.

(L-R) Will French, Podback Head of Operations, Richard Williams Managing Director for Bristol Waste, and Sarah Burns, Sustainability and Engagement Manager for Bristol Waste. Photo credit: Podback

This initiative is part of Podback's broader strategy to provide convenient recycling options. In addition to local authority sites, Podback has established partnerships with major retailers. A nationwide rollout in over 400 Morrisons supermarkets is nearing completion, and a collaboration with Asda has facilitated the return of more than 44,000 bags through the Asda toYou parcel service.

Through Podback, collected coffee pods are processed within the UK. The coffee grounds undergo anaerobic digestion to produce renewable energy and soil improver, while the aluminium and plastic materials are recycled into new products such as drink cans and packaging materials.

Podback Executive Director Rick Hindley says: The installation of our 200th local authority recycling centre service is a significant milestone in the expansion of Podback’s nationwide drop-off network. We have an active pipeline of authorities interested in adding Podback to their HWRCs, and these new partnerships with local authorities are key to our strategy of providing coffee-lovers with convenient local options for dropping off their pods as part of their regular routine.

Residents can locate their nearest recycling point and obtain free recycling bags by using Podback's online Recycle Checker and interactive map.

Latest Packaging News

Heidelberg Group advances bakery automation with Bradman Lake equipment
Supplier News

Heidelberg Group advances bakery automation with Bradman Lake equipment

Heidelberg Group has taken a significant step towards automation and efficiency in its bakery...
Little Town Dairy adds YPS shrink wrapper to their big renovation project
Supplier News

Little Town Dairy adds YPS shrink wrapper to their big renovation project

A new automated shrink wrapping line has become the latest addition to a thorough renovation of...
Labelexpo Global Series to rebrand as LOUPE from 2026
Events

Labelexpo Global Series to rebrand as LOUPE from 2026

A new era for Labelexpo begins today with the launch of LOUPE, a major rebrand reflecting the...
One month to go: London Packaging Week returns to Excel London
Events

One month to go: London Packaging Week returns to Excel London

From global brands to London’s creative community, thousands will gather at Excel on 15–16 October...
John Lewis highlights EPR packaging levy in increased first-half losses
Business

John Lewis highlights EPR packaging levy in increased first-half losses

The John Lewis Partnership has reported that its losses for the first half of the year nearly...