Nestlé announced a series of specific actions to make 100 per cent of its packaging recyclable or reusable by 2025, with a particular focus on avoiding plastic-waste.
Nestlé CEO Mark Schneider said, “Our broader vision and action plan outline our commitment and specific approach to addressing the plastics packaging waste issue. While we are committed to pursuing recycling options where feasible, we know that 100 per cent recyclability is not enough to successfully tackle the plastics waste crisis. We need to push the boundaries and do more. We are determined to look at every option to solve this complex challenge and embrace multiple solutions that can have an impact now.”
He added, “We believe in the value of recyclable and compostable paper-based materials and biodegradable polymers, in particular where recycling infrastructure does not exist. Collective action is vital, which is why we are also engaging consumers, business partners and all of our Nestlé colleagues to play their part. You can count on us to be a leader in this space!”
In December 2018, Nestlé announced the creation of Institute of Packaging Sciences to evaluate and develop various sustainable packaging materials and to collaborate with industrial partners to develop new packaging materials and solutions.
In February 2019, Nestlé will begin to eliminate all plastic straws from its products, using alternative materials like paper as well as innovative designs to reduce littering.
In this year, Nestlé will also start rolling out paper packaging for Nesquik, Yes! snack bar, and smarties. Milo will introduce paper-based pouches in 2020. Nestlé Waters will increase the recycled PET content in its bottles by 2025.
Nestlé Institute of Packaging Sciences is exploring new paper-based materials and biodegradable/compostable polymers that are also recyclable, among other alternatives. This could become a valuable option in places where recycling infrastructure does not yet exist and will not be available for some time. Nestlé also initiated a collaboration with PureCycle Technologies to produce food-grade recycled Polypropylene (PP).
Moreover, Nestlé has a longer-term ambition to stop plastic leakage into the environment across its global operations. This will help avoid further accumulation of plastics in nature and achieve plastic neutrality.
All 4,200 Nestlé facilities worldwide are committed to eliminating single-use plastic items that cannot be recycled. These items will be replaced by materials that can easily be recycled or reused.
Nestlé employees in all locations worldwide and at all levels will dedicate their volunteering days to the removal of litter and participate in clean-up activities on World Ocean Day on June 8, 2019. Nestlé is particularly dedicated to accelerating action in tackling the plastic waste issue and report on the Company’s progress publicly.
