The Coca-Cola Company [KO:US] in Canada has unveiled plans to launch 100% recycled plastic bottles for all its 500ml sparkling beverages by early 2024, as reported by ESG Today on October 27. This initiative signifies a significant step as Coca-Cola aims to eliminate the use of virgin PET plastic in its 500ml sparkling bottles throughout Canada, excluding caps and labels. This move is expected to have a substantial impact on environmental conservation. The company estimates that transitioning to 100% recycled plastic bottles will save 7.6 million pounds (3.5 million kilograms) of new plastic in 2024 alone, leading to a reduction of nearly 7,000 tons of CO2 emissions annually. Earlier in October, Coca-Cola also introduced fully recycled PET bottles for its flagship Coca-Cola brand in pack sizes of 250ml and 750ml across various markets in India.

Coca-Cola’s latest initiative aligns with its commitment to the World Without Waste goal, aiming to produce bottles with 50% recycled content by 2030, a significant increase from the current level of approximately 25%. Additionally, the company has set an ambitious target to make 100% of its packaging recyclable globally by 2025. Presently, Coca-Cola offers at least one brand in packaging made entirely from 100% recycled PET material in over 40 markets worldwide. Kurt Ritter, Vice President of Coca-Cola North America, emphasized that this shift to 100% recycled plastic will not only benefit the environment but also enhance the supply of high-quality, food-grade recycled plastic in Canada, contributing to a sustainable future.

Sources:

Coca-Cola Launches 100% Recycled Plastic Bottles in Canada

https://www.coca-colacompany.com/media-center/coca-cola-launches-100-rpet-bottles-across-canada

https://www.livemint.com/companies/news/cocacola-india-launches-recycled-pet-bottles-to-reduce-plastic-waste-and-environmental-impact-11696426809799.html