ALL Co-op stores across Northumberland are set to take part in a major new recycling scheme.

The supermarket chain is to be the first in the UK to have fully recyclable food packaging by the end of July, while recycling units for soft plastics are set to appear in 1,500 Co-op stores also by the end of the month.

This figure is set to increase to 2,3000 by November, with the aim of the scheme designed to help dispose materials such as crisp packets and single use carrier bags bags that otherwise likely would not be recycled.

“As we face into an environmental crisis, we know from our feedback that there is a universal appetite for change," said Jo Whitfield, Co-op Food CEO.

"Which is why we are making it easier for thousands of households to recycle all of their plastic food packaging.

"This will not only prevent unnecessary waste but also reduce plastic pollution. By offering a simple and convenient solution to an everyday issue, we believe we can help communities to make small changes, that together will add up to a big difference for our environment.”

The supermarket giant believes that went the scheme is fully introduced later this year, they will be able to recycle 300 tonnes of plastic bags and wrapping from food items every year.

News of the scheme being rolled out follows on from a positive 50 store trial last year that resulted in 86% of shoppers in their stores becoming likely to use the scheme.

“There’s no doubt that unnecessary plastic needs to be reduced; including bags and wrapping which is a fifth of all consumer plastic packaging," added Helen Bird, Strategic Technical Manager from the Waste & Resources Action Programme.

"However, where it is necessary it is urgent to design it for recycling and ensure recycling systems are in place. It’s great to see the roll out of collections across Co-op’s stores significantly contributing to the goal of The UK Plastics Pact for all plastic packaging to be recyclable by 2025.

"Not only is the Co-op ensuring that the service is widely promoted, it is processing the material within the UK, demonstrating how we can build back better for the economy and environment.”

The new project will also be supported by a nationwide marketing campaign including a new TV advert that debuted on screens last week.

In May the business also revealed its ten-point climate plan that hopes to make it net zero for both its direct and indirect carbon emissions by 2040.