Colgate and Watson Launch Hong Kong’s First Toothpaste Tube Recyclable Program

HONG KONG: In an effort to combat the mounting global issue of plastic waste, Colgate and Watsons have launched Hong Kong’s first toothpaste tube recyclable take-back program. Announced on October 17, 2024, the initiative, named “Small Acts – Big Smiles,” seeks to promote environmental sustainability by encouraging consumers to recycle used toothpaste tubes of any brand at nearly 180 Watsons stores across Hong Kong.

This groundbreaking program is the first of its kind in the region and builds upon Colgate’s 2019 development of a recyclable toothpaste tube made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), one of the most widely recycled plastics globally.

Tackling Plastic Waste through Consumer Engagement

Plastic waste continues to be a significant environmental challenge, with billions of toothpaste tubes contributing to landfills every year. Colgate’s SVP of Customer Development, Asia Pacific, Meenakshisundaram Chandrasekar, highlighted the urgency of addressing the issue: “Plastic waste mismanagement is a major challenge for our generation, and we are all part of it.”

Despite creating a recyclable tube, Colgate is aware that the solution requires more than just innovation. Chandrasekar emphasized the need for collective action, saying, “It is essential that we as a society embrace more mindful recycling habits to make these innovations more impactful.” Through the new program, Colgate and Watsons hope to instill recycling as a regular practice among consumers, sparking meaningful societal change.

Watsons’ Ongoing Commitment to Sustainability

Watsons Hong Kong, known as the city’s top recycling retailer, has a longstanding history of promoting sustainability through its extensive store network. Since 2015, Watsons has led numerous recycling campaigns, with Managing Director Samuel Lee underscoring the importance of collaboration: “Over the past decade, we have implemented numerous recycling initiatives and actively partnered with business partners and recycling organizations.”

Lee added that Watsons has already recycled 1.2 million empty bottles in the last four years, contributing to significant reductions in plastic waste. “We are thrilled to collaborate with Colgate to extend our recycling efforts to toothpaste tubes of any brands,” Lee said, noting that customer engagement is key to success. Watsons will offer reward incentives to encourage consumer participation, such as HK$10 Colgate vouchers and double MoneyBack points for purchases of Colgate’s recyclable toothpaste tubes.

Supporting the Circular Economy: Transforming Tubes into Useful Products

The initiative goes beyond just collection. Once the used tubes are deposited at Watsons stores, they will be sorted into recyclable and non-recyclable categories. The recyclable tubes will be handed over to Colgate’s green partners, The Loops and Gaau1Up, which specialize in transforming plastic waste into products through injection molding technology. Non-recyclable tubes, meanwhile, will be repurposed into building materials.

The upcycled materials will be used to create stationery items, which will be distributed to underprivileged children through the Hong Kong Young Dentist Federation. This is part of Colgate’s “Bright Smiles, Bright Futures” program, which not only provides oral health education and free dental screenings but also aims to teach children about the importance of sustainability. Workshops will be organized to raise awareness about plastic waste challenges and inspire young people to take small but meaningful steps toward a greener future.

Incentives to Boost Consumer Participation

To encourage widespread participation, Watsons has made it simple for customers to get involved. Collection stations are now available at nearly 180 stores across Hong Kong. Consumers who bring in used toothpaste tubes will receive a HK$10 Colgate voucher, which can be redeemed when purchasing HK$99 or more of Colgate products. Additionally, MoneyBack members purchasing Colgate’s recyclable toothpaste tubes will earn double points, further incentivizing eco-friendly choices.

This take-back program, running until March 31, 2025, represents a collaborative effort to reduce plastic waste and promote sustainable habits among Hong Kong’s consumers. Chandrasekar remains optimistic about the potential impact: “Through the ‘Small Acts – Big Smiles’ program, we strive to influence positive behaviors and make meaningful societal change.”

The program signals an important step forward for environmental sustainability in Hong Kong, aligning with global efforts to reduce plastic waste and build a greener future.