Too much plastic

[The Bull]

Firstly apologies if this topic doesn't belong in this Discussion area, I wasn't sure where exactly is should reside.

It relates to a resent delivery I took from a homebrew supply company, one which I have used many times in the past and one which I rate very highly. I was taken aback by the introduction of increased packaging. At a time when most companies are making strives to reduce plastics this was a step in the wrong direction.

Multiple items in the order are now double packed. Example, the DME, hop pellets, yeast all already come in their own packaging but now these are again individually sealed in a clear soft plastic; soft plastics are now not taken by recycling companies either.

I really like the supplier and I know their answer will be along the lines of "we want to ensure products arrive to you fresh and sealed" but I think sealing an already packaged item in more plastic is overkill.

I plan to provide feedback as think it's important to let companies know but rather than one lone voice I was wondering if any others had thoughts, opinions on this.

[Simon_]

I'd agree with you in general but I did like seeing my yeast arriving chilled when it's been in the high 20's.

[Qs]

I've had a bottle of star san burst and leak all over my stuff so I'm happy to have things packed a bit more carefully.

[molc]

I think all the liquids need the extra level of packing, as others have pointed out. If they get damaged in transit, they go everywhere and ruin the whole order.

Anything else, agreed 100% though.

[willk]

I plan to provide feedback as think it's important to let companies know but rather than one lone voice I was wondering if any others had thoughts, opinions on this.

I think very few companies will voluntarily increase packaging/costs without reason. I'd suggest that they were having issues with spoiled orders.  As online homebrew shops appear to be the only viable model in Ireland, shipping is a fact of life.  Perhaps a tick box at the checkout stage for reduced plastic packaging and automatic waiving of right to return damaged in transit product?  Or a tick box for organic gluten free vegan packaging with a small surcharge of say, 1 euro?  Most of the homebrewers I know would walk to the county line to save a buck, so I'd not hold my breath waiting for a big uptake on that one...

[Ryan]

It could be a requirement in the t&c from the delivery companies if they know liquids are being shipped.  extra protection on liquids helps prevent entire orders getting damaged from first hand experience.

[The Bull]

Thanks all for taking the time to read/provide feedback. I can see the point regarding the liquid spoiling an entire order. I'll provide my feedback and see how it goes. Perhaps next time you're on their site you'll see a fancy new tick box relating to packaging

Thanks again