We have some exciting news!

Here at the Ucluelet Co-op, we are excited to share that we have joined the Canada Plastics Pact (CPP), together with Federated Co-operatives Limited and over 160 local Co-ops across Western Canada.

At Co-op, we are committed to ensuring the sustainability of our communities for generations to come. Signing this Pact signals our commitment to reducing our use of plastic packaging materials and doing our part to protect the environment. At the end of the day, it’s the right thing to do.

While this partnership may be new, the transition to new packaging materials at the Ucluelet Co-op has been happening for some time. These changes have included switching to non-plastic, compostable straws, stir sticks, cutlery and take-out containers. Additionally, we have eliminated plastic rings from our private label canned beverages and are providing customers with the option to use paper bags and reusable totes.

The Canada Plastics Pact focuses on bringing businesses, government and other key players together to create a circular economy for plastics in which plastic stays in the economy and out of the environment. The CPP has set clear, actionable targets for 2025:

• Take measures to eliminate problematic or unnecessary plastic packaging.

• 100% of plastic packaging is designed to be reusable, recyclable or compostable.

• 50% of plastic packaging is effectively recycled or composted

• 30% recycled content across all plastic packaging

• Joining the CPP means your Ucluelet Co-op is committed to achieving these targets.

“Successfully tackling plastic pollution isn’t something one individual or organization can do on their own. It will take collaboration. Together with FCL, we are excited to work with the Canada Plastics Pact and their members to find environmentally friendly alternatives to the packaging we currently use”

- Laurie Gehrke, General Manager

While much progress has been made to reduce plastic use at Co-op, more work is needed. Customers can continue to expect changes to in-store packaging as we work to address these challenges and build sustainable communities together!

Thank you, Ukee!
Stay safe.