In a notable stride towards its commitment to sustainability, Nestlé has successfully reduced the use of virgin plastic packaging by an impressive 10.5% since 2018. The global food giant is on course to achieve an even more ambitious goal – cutting the use of this material by a third before the conclusion of 2025. Nestlé’s concerted efforts are part of a broader global commitment to tackle plastic waste, and its recent achievements have been highlighted in the latest report from the Ellen MacArthur Foundation.
This substantial reduction in virgin plastic usage has substantial environmental benefits. In 2022 alone, Nestlé managed to decrease the weight of its total product packaging by a staggering 200,000 tonnes, leading to a significant reduction of 280,000 tonnes in greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, the company successfully reduced its packaging pieces by an impressive 14 billion in the same year.
Antonia Wanner, Nestlé’s head of ESG strategy and deployment, emphasized the company’s ongoing pursuit of innovative packaging solutions. Nestlé’s in-house experts and scientists are actively involved in developing the next generation of packaging materials while concurrently redesigning existing packaging with a focus on circular economy principles. Wanner highlighted Nestlé’s multifaceted approach, stating, “In addition, we promote better infrastructure systems for waste management, advocate for harmonized regulation, and encourage behavioral change.”
Apart from reducing virgin plastic usage, Nestlé is equally committed to increasing the use of recycled plastics in its packaging. As of the end of 2022, 7.7% of the company’s plastic packaging was made from recycled content, with a targeted increase to nearly 30% by the close of 2025. The commitment to recycling is exemplified by Nestlé’s water business in the UK, which has transitioned its entire Buxton natural mineral water range to 100% recycled PET.
Nestlé’s approach extends beyond internal initiatives; it actively supports governments in developing infrastructure for waste recycling. The company advocates for a Global Plastics Treaty and well-designed extended producer responsibility and deposit return systems. Nestlé has participated in 220 initiatives globally, partnering to create efficient collection, sorting, and recycling schemes in Europe, Africa, Asia, and Latin America. These initiatives underscore Nestlé’s dedication to leading the way in sustainable practices and contributing to global efforts in combating plastic waste.