Tackling Plastic Waste: How Retailers Can Make a Real Difference
In recent years, the alarming prediction that by 2050 there could be more plastic in the ocean than fish is no longer just a shock headline — it has become a pressing reality. There are now between 75 and 199 million tonnes of plastic floating in our oceans and marine environments [1]. At the same time, zero-waste shops and plastic-free initiatives are flourishing across the UK, offering consumers a way to reduce their footprint and retailers an opportunity to lead the sustainability movement.
Why the Plastic Problem Affects Everyone
While figures such as “8 million pieces of plastic entering our oceans each day” have long raised awareness, newer studies paint an even more complex picture. It’s estimated that around 1 to 1.7 million tonnes of plastic waste enter the ocean every year [2]. This growing issue is not just environmental — it’s commercial.
UK consumers are increasingly conscious of their buying habits and the impact of packaging. Research from 2025 shows that a majority of shoppers now actively seek out reusable or refill options, demonstrating a clear cultural shift towards sustainability [3].
For retailers, this shift is a huge opportunity. Offering refillable or package-free products not only attracts eco-aware customers but also builds loyalty and long-term trust.
The Rise of Zero-Waste and Refill Retail
Zero-waste stores and refill stations are becoming a familiar sight in towns and cities across the country. Instead of filling shopping trolleys with single-use bottles, cartons and packaging, customers bring their own containers to refill essential items such as cereals, pasta, herbs, oils, shampoo and cleaning products.
According to recent research, promoting reusable packaging and refill options can drastically reduce plastic waste from the retail supply chain [4]. For independent retailers, this approach adds a modern, ethical dimension to their offering — and positions them as part of the solution to plastic pollution rather than the problem.
By providing an engaging, sustainable shopping experience, stores can attract new customers who are looking for convenience that aligns with their values.
How CSY Retail Supports Zero-Waste Retailing
At CSY Retail Systems, we’re committed to supporting retailers who want to reduce waste and modernise their stores. Our latest weighing-scale feature is designed specifically for refill and zero-waste retailing.
The process is straightforward:
The customer weighs their empty container.
A label is printed showing the container’s tare weight.
They fill it with their chosen product.
When re-weighed, the scale automatically deducts the tare, ensuring they pay only for the product’s weight.
It’s simple, accurate and efficient — and ideal for farm shops, delis, refill stores or organic grocers.
Because CSY already provides weighing and point-of-sale technology to sectors such as butchers, food halls and garden centres, we understand how to adapt systems for practical retail needs. Our technology integrates seamlessly with your existing setup, helping you provide a smooth experience both in-store and at the checkout.
If you’re planning to introduce refill stations or want to explore how zero-waste options could work for your store, our team can offer a free demonstration and tailored advice.
What Retailers Can Do to Help Prevent Plastic Pollution
Every small step makes a big difference. Whether you’re a local shop or a national retailer, here are a few easy ways to contribute:
Encourage reusable items: Replace disposable cups in staff areas with mugs or glasses.
Promote refill culture: Encourage customers to bring their own bags, jars and bottles.
Choose sustainable alternatives: Offer compostable or paper straws and recyclable packaging.
Educate customers: Share key facts — such as that 11 million tonnes of plastic enter our oceans every year [5].
Support clean-up initiatives: In 2024, plastic litter on UK beaches rose by 9.5% compared to the previous year [6]. Promoting awareness can help reverse this trend.
Lead by example: Introduce your friends, family or local community to refill shopping. Word-of-mouth remains one of the most effective ways to inspire change.
By embracing these actions, retailers not only reduce their environmental impact but also meet growing consumer demand for greener choices — strengthening their brand and driving repeat visits.
The Business Case for Zero-Waste Retailing
Zero-waste retail isn’t just good for the planet — it makes business sense. Refill services drive repeat visits, increase dwell time, and encourage higher-value purchases. Customers who pop in for refills often browse additional items, leading to larger average basket sizes.
By integrating CSY’s weighing-scale solutions and retail technology, you can streamline operations, track refill product performance, and offer customers a convenient, sustainable experience — all while doing your part to reduce single-use plastics.
The future of retail is refillable. Let’s make it happen together.
References
[1] Condor Ferries: 100+ Plastic in the Ocean Statistics & Facts 2025
[2] Our World in Data: How Much Plastic Waste Ends Up in the Ocean
[3] City to Sea: Attitudes and Behaviours Towards Reuse in the UK 2025
[4] WWF: Plastic Pollution — Facts and Information
[5] Surfers Against Sewage: Plastic Pollution Facts & Figures
[6] The Guardian: Single-Use Plastic Waste on UK Beaches Up 9.5% in 2024