Nestlé aiming for 100 percent recyclable or reusable packaging by 2025

The company focuses on three core areas: eliminating non-recyclable plastics; encouraging the use of plastics that allow better recycling rates; and eliminating or changing complex combinations of packaging materials.

Recognizing the need for developing a circular economy, Nestlé stated that it is committed to:

• Playing an active role in the development of well-functioning collection, sorting and recycling schemes across the countries where it operates;
• Working with value chain partners and industry associations to explore different packaging options to reduce plastic usage, facilitate recycling and develop new approaches to eliminate plastic waste;
• Labeling plastic product packaging with recycling information to help consumers dispose of it in the right way; and
• Promoting a market for recycled plastics by continuing to increase the proportion of recycled plastics in its packaging.

Nestlé’s vision is that none of its packaging, including plastics, ends up in landfill or as litter. Nestlé believes that there is an urgent need to minimize the impact of packaging on the environment. Nestlé CEO Mark Schneider explained: ‘Plastic waste is one of the biggest sustainability issues the world is facing today. Tackling it requires a collective approach. We are committed to finding improved solutions to reduce, reuse and recycle. Our ambition is to achieve 100 percent recyclable or reusable packaging by 2025.’

Preventing packaging material ending up as waste, including in seas, oceans and waterways, is one of the key reasons behind Nestlé’s pledge.

Stefano Agostini, CEO at Nestlé UK & Ireland, added: ‘Nestlé is making a clear announcement today on the future of its packaging. Around the world, we will be throwing our efforts behind making all of our packaging either recyclable or reusable by 2025. Packaging is fundamental to our business and crucial in delivering safe, high quality food to our consumers as well as reducing food waste. What today’s announcement recognizes is that we need to do more to address the sustainability of the packaging we use.

‘I am positive that, with a renewed focus and a clear aim for the future, we will make a difference for the planet that truly reflects Nestlé’s purpose to enhance quality of life and contribute to a healthier future.’