James Cropper Paper produces plastic-free poppy
The company supported this year’s Remembrance commemorations with an eco-friendly solution
Shining a spotlight on the industry
Monday, 13 Nov 2023 12:04 GMT
[L to R] Dan Ford, Dave Cornell, James Pownell, Richard Bracewell, Joe Tallon, and Mike Dent
Paper production company, James Cropper, supported this year’s Poppy Appeal with the first-ever plastic-free poppy.
The poppy is made from a blend of renewable fibres from responsible sources, 50% of which stems from James Cropper’s CupCycling facility.
The design is part of The Royal British Legion’s (RBL) commitment to reducing single-use plastic and being less impactful to the environment.
The new poppy, which was worn over the last few weeks including Remembrance Weekend, features the same iconic design and leaf which can be secured to a person’s clothing in a number of ways.
This year’s Remembrance events were overshadowed in many instances by comments from former foreign secretary Suella Braverman and the protests and clashes that stemmed from the Israel/Palestine-related marches.
Due to the hostility of certain groups and the current negative connotations of war, the image of the poppy has recently been impacted for certain UK residents who wish for the symbol to reflect its origins.
Other organisations involved in the project
include Sewtec and University College London
The RBL says the poppy was created as a symbol of Remembrance and hope for a peaceful future in the aftermath of the First World War.
Richard Bracewell, managing director at James Cropper Paper Products, says: “Although we are involved each year, we never take for granted what this symbol means to so many families and the country. Everyone at James Cropper is very proud of our long-standing involvement in the production of this British icon, worn the world over as a symbol of respect and remembrance.”
Bracewell adds: “This year’s appeal marks 45 years of our partnership with the Royal British Legion, which we are incredibly proud of. Back in 1978, the RBL contacted us looking for a colour-fast and biodegradable paper alternative to the fabric poppy.
“Even back then, the request was ahead of its time because RBL wanted to make certain that going forward the global symbol of remembrance could be easily recycled in parts.”
To celebrate the launch of the Poppy Appeal James Cropper worked with paper designer Sarah-Louise Matthews to create a 3ft interpretation of the paper poppy which was installed at the James Cropper Kendal mill.
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