Global waste is a significant issue that needs immediate and substantial action to prevent it from increasing by 70% by 2050, according to the World Bank. Tetra Pak, the carton packaging giant, has pledged nearly €30 million to projects worldwide in 2022, with plans to invest up to €40 million annually in the upcoming years to increase the collection and recycling of beverage cartons.
The company is a supporter of the industry ambition, led by the Alliance for Beverage Cartons and the Environment (ACE), to increase the collection for recycling rate of beverage cartons to 90% and achieve a recycling rate of 70% in the European Union by 2030. Their goals also include meeting the national recyclability criteria for its packages in all countries where it operates and fulfilling the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s Global Commitment, a common vision of a circular economy for plastics.
According to Markus Pfanner, Tetra Pak’s Vice President of Sustainability Operations, a system-wide action and cooperation supported by a regulatory framework are required to move from a linear ‘take-make-waste’ model to a more connected circular economy. He emphasized that no individual or entity can drive this alone, and it requires scientists, policymakers, recyclers, industry players, and citizens to work together.
Christine Levêque, Tetra Pak’s Vice President of Collection and Recycling, stated that designing out waste and pollution, keeping products and materials in use, and regenerating natural systems are the three principles guiding their circularity agenda. She emphasized the importance of innovation and a clear drive to change the status quo in keeping quality materials in circulation and minimizing the use of new ones. Their experts worldwide are collaborating every day with recyclers, local authorities, and food and beverage manufacturers to drive the transformation needed to scale up the collection and recycling.
In conclusion, Tetra Pak’s initiatives reflect the need for collective action to support a circular economy. By being committed to reducing waste through collaboration, innovation, and transformative steps, they are taking significant strides towards building a sustainable future.
