Sturdiness and durability are probably two qualities that are universally regarded as essential when it comes to a vacuum cleaner. So, you might think a cardboard one would be a nonstarter. But not so.
Loughborough University design student Jake Tyler created a vacuum cleaner body from a vacuum cleaner box for his final year project. Manufacturer Vax was so impressed with the design that it will produce a limited number for sale under the label ‘Vax ev’. The company explains: “The corrugated cardboard panels that form the body of the Vax ev are easily replaced if damaged and cost just a tenth of the price of an equivalent plastic panel. They are multi-purpose too, beginning their life as part of the retail box the vacuum cleaner is sold in... They have a flame retardant coating and are fully customisable – with just a few felt tip pens you can turn your vacuum cleaner into a unique work of art!”
Just be sure not to hoover in the rain...
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How will the government and DMOs address the challenges of including glass in DRS while ensuring a level playing field across the UK?
There's no easy solution to include glass in the DRS while maintaining a level playing field. Potential approaches include a phased introduction of glass, potentially with higher deposits to reflect its logistical challenges. The government and DMOs could incentivise innovation in glass packaging design and subsidise dedicated return points for glass-handling. Exemptions for smaller businesses unable to handle glass might also be necessary. Any successful solution will likely blend several approaches. It must address the differing priorities of devolved administrations, balance environmental benefits with logistical and cost implications, and be supported by robust consumer education campaigns emphasizing the importance of glass recycling.