Did you know that Boots, in partnership with MyGroup, operate a nation-wide blister pack recycling scheme? More than 7 tons was collected in stores in 2024. You can take your empty packs into the store to be recycled. If you are part of their advantage card scheme, they also operate a reward system for recycling via an app. Could you help others in your congregation recycle their blister packs too?
One way to do this is through a church collection point.
Some churches, including Craiglockhart Parish Church, collect empty blister packs in the church and then take to a local participating store. Here’s how it works:
- Volunteers put out a collection bin on Sunday mornings and at other church events. The bin is clearly marked with ‘Empty Blister Packs Only’. The bin is lined with a bag that can be used to transport the empty packs and then returned.
- The bin is checked every week and is emptied roughly twice a month depending on when it is full.
- They take a bag at a time to a local boots store to be emptied into an in-store recycling box. (They have found the staff to be helpful is assisting with this). They do not participate in the reward points and therefore do not need to scan each item on an app.
- It is very important to communicate to the congregation that blister packs must be empty. (Old prescriptions can be taken by individuals to a local pharmacy for safe disposal.)
To explore the details and find participating stores click here.
Some Superdrug pharmacy stores may also have blister pack recycling boxes, click here for more information.
If you think your congregation would have a very large quantity to recycle, it might be worth discussing with your local store before starting collection to make sure they are happy to take bigger volumes.
There are many other ways your church can take practical action. If you have any ideas or stories from your church get in touch to let us know.
Thank you to Craiglockhart Parish Church for sharing this with us.
