Dissertation on packaging waste at McDonald's in Finland reveals low percentage in recycling

Aug 22, 2006. /Lesprom Network/. In her academic dissertation at the Lappeenranta University of Technology in Finland, researcher Teija Aarnio has examined the packaging waste created at McDonald's outlets in Finland during a 12-month period, Esmerk reported. According to the study, only one third of the packaging waste of fast food chains is recycled, while only 7% of the waste is unsuitable for recycling. The highest recycling percentage is achieved in corrugated board. According to Aarnio, most of the packaging waste is lost because the waste system does not support recycling. Fast food outlets could recycle more, but often they have not been given directions on where to deliver the recycled waste. Fast food outlets are perceived as belonging to the restaurant sector although the products are packed as in the food industry. Recycling practices should be nationally uniform. According to Aarnio, fast food chains could reduce the amount of packaging waste by packing hamburgers in wrappers instead of paperboard containers. The chains could also give up dose packaging of ketchup and salad dressings. Standardizing packaging would reduce waste by 16%. Customers will learn to recycle if waste disposal and waste collection is organized.