The Coca-Cola Company has announced updated environmental goals, with a strong focus on sustainable packaging. The company aims to significantly reduce packaging waste and increase the use of recycled materials by 2035.
A key target is to integrate 35%-40% recycled materials into its primary packaging—plastic, glass, and aluminum—while increasing the use of recycled plastic to 30%-35% globally. Coca-Cola also plans to collect and recycle 70%-75% of the bottles and cans it introduces annually.
“Our packaging strategy is designed to drive measurable impact by prioritizing recycling and reducing waste,” said Bea Perez, Executive Vice President and Global Chief Communications, Sustainability & Strategic Partnerships Officer.
Design and Recycling Focus
Coca-Cola is committed to ensuring nearly all of its primary consumer packaging is recyclable, with over 95% already meeting this standard. Efforts to incorporate recycled content aim to reduce emissions and dependence on virgin plastic. Innovations such as lightweighting packaging materials are also part of the plan.
The company recognizes that achieving its recycling goals requires robust infrastructure and supportive policies. Coca-Cola is advocating for well-designed collection systems globally, which it says are among the most efficient ways to improve recycling rates.
Refillable Packaging and Collaboration
In markets with existing infrastructure, Coca-Cola plans to expand the use of refillable packaging, further contributing to waste reduction efforts. Through collaboration with governments, industry peers, and local partners, the company aims to strengthen collection systems and invest in new recycling technologies.
“We are committed to working with stakeholders to develop effective solutions for packaging waste,” Perez added.
The updated goals, part of Coca-Cola’s broader sustainability strategy, emphasize the company’s focus on innovation and collaboration to address global packaging challenges. Regular reporting will track progress toward achieving these targets by 2035.