Colgate and Watsons Hong Kong have joined forces to launch a new recycling initiative targeting toothpaste tubes.

This programme, known as the "Small Act, Big Smiles" initiative, aims to encourage the public to recycle used tubes and reduce plastic waste.

The collaboration between the two companies focuses on making it easier for consumers to dispose of their toothpaste tubes responsibly and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Tackling plastic waste through collaboration

Plastic waste has long been a pressing issue, particularly with single-use products such as toothpaste tubes. Colgate first introduced a recyclable toothpaste tube in 2019, made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), a widely recycled plastic.

In this new initiative with Watsons Hong Kong, the goal is to increase public awareness of recycling habits and make it easier for individuals to participate. Consumers can now drop off used tubes, regardless of brand, at 180 Watsons stores across Hong Kong.

Meenakshisundaram Chandrasekar, Colgate’s SVP of Customer Development in Asia Pacific, emphasised the importance of recycling in tackling plastic waste, stating that while innovations like recyclable tubes are helpful, their true impact depends on consumer behaviour.

“It is essential that we as a society embrace more mindful recycling habits to make these innovations more impactful," he said.

Incentivising recycling participation

To encourage consumer participation, Watsons is offering incentives for recycling. Members of the Watsons MoneyBack programme who purchase Colgate’s recyclable toothpaste tubes will receive double points.

Furthermore, customers returning any brand’s toothpaste tube for recycling will be rewarded with a HK$10 Colgate voucher, redeemable on purchases of Colgate products. This approach aims to make recycling more accessible and appealing to everyday consumers.

Samuel Lee, Managing Director of Watsons Hong Kong, highlighted the company’s commitment to sustainability, stating that over the past four years, Watsons has successfully recycled over 1.2 million empty bottles.

This new partnership with Colgate seeks to build on those efforts by expanding the scope to include toothpaste tubes.

Upcycling for customers

The programme doesn’t end with recycling. Collected tubes will be sorted into recyclable and non-recyclable categories. Recyclable tubes will be processed by Colgate’s partners, The Loops and Gaau1Up, who will transform them into new products using injection moulding technology.

Non-recyclable tubes will be repurposed into building materials, ensuring minimal waste.

As part of the programme’s broader impact, Colgate will distribute upcycled stationery items made from the recycled tubes to underprivileged children through the Hong Kong Young Dentist Federation.