Single Use Plastic Policy

To have all packaging material used in the shipment of Antrica Products have zero plastic content by the end of 2020. This includes so-called biodegradable plastics called OXO recyclable plastics. These plastics biodegrade into micro-plastics only and then cease, leaving micro-plastics in the environment. This is particularly harmful to marine life who digest these micro plastics.

Our aim is to have all materials fully comply with the following 3 definitions:

1. Recyclable: The ability to reuse the material if needed and remake new packaging material. For example, paper or cardboard can be recycled to make new packing materials.
2. Biodegradable: The ability for the material to degrade over a year or less thus reducing its landfill volume. This only refers to the breakdown of the material but does not take into account what the material may put into the earth. OXO degradable plastic can be considered Biodegradable but this still leaves an unwanted residue (Micro-plastics/ petroleum by-products)
3. Compostable: Is one step further than biodegradable as the material puts nutrients back in the soil which have a positive effect (like plant matter)

Antrica want all our packaging to meet all 3 of the above definitions by end of 2020 and not just one or two. This means all our future packaging can be recycled and or composted making this the best we can achieve during 2020.

Throughout 2021 and beyond we will strive to improve the materials we use as technology develops to further reduce harmful effects of our packaging.

What packing materials are we attempting to replace with Compostable alternatives:

• Cardboard or paper boxes /envelopes of any type will not contain any plastic.
• Plastic Packing tape to be replaced by Water Activated reinforced paper tape.
• Plastic Air Pillows to replace bubble wrap where possible. Plastic air pillows replaced by potato or other starch-based pillows. 
• Bubble Wrap: Where required, this will be paper or starch-based alternatives.
• Expanded foam either solid or soft to be replaced by pulp moulded packing or cardboard inserts.
• Documents Enclosed wallets for despatch notes and airway bills/ commercial invoices to be replaced by self-adhesive shipping labels or paper-based document enclosed wallets with no plastic content.
• Labels of any type on boxes will be paper rather than coated foil. (Equipment will continue to use foil/plastic labels as these remain with the product for life and need to be robust)
• Strapping tape: Reduce to zero usage or replace with compostable alternatives.
  Plastic bags will be removed altogether, and if replaced, will be in a paper-based or starch-based material.

We will be clearly marking all materials used in packaging so customers are fully aware they can recycle or compost any Antrica packaging.