Starling Bank has taken a significant step in sustainability by becoming the first UK bank to introduce Mastercard debit cards made from recycled plastic.
In the UK, over 97 million debit cards are currently in use, with the majority made from virgin PVC. Starling’s initiative to offer recycled PVC (rPVC) cards aims to lessen the reliance on newly produced plastic. Each kilogram of rPVC utilized is expected to substitute an equivalent amount of new PVC, leading to a reduction of two kilograms of CO2 emissions for every kilogram of material used. Notably, only 25% of the card comprises unavoidable non-recycled components, such as the chip and magnetic stripe.
Current customers will receive the recycled card upon the expiration of their existing one, while new customers will be issued the card when they join the bank. The rPVC utilized is sourced from Mastercard’s Sustainable Materials Directory, which identifies sustainable materials and vendors for card production.
Paul Trueman, Senior Vice President of Product Advancement, Cyber & Intelligence at Mastercard, remarked, “We are enabling banks like Starling to provide eco-friendly card options for consumers. It’s not only beneficial for the environment, but also advantageous for businesses while addressing evolving consumer preferences.”
Earlier this month, Starling Bank, alongside 14 other rapidly growing tech firms, joined the ‘Tech Zero Taskforce’ to address climate challenges. Additionally, the bank commenced a tree-planting initiative last year to further enhance forest conservation.
Starling Bank’s CEO and founder, Anne Boden, stated, “Environmental concerns resonate with our customers, so launching a recycled plastic debit card was a natural choice. This innovative card maintains the same technical quality and functionality, allowing customers to progress towards sustainable living. We take pride in being a branchless, paperless institution powered by renewable energy, and the introduction of these new recycled cards enhances our commitment.”