On this Global Recycling Day, Nestlé East and Southern Africa Region (ESAR) is excited to announce that nearly all its packaging is now made from recyclable materials. The company’s strong commitment to a waste-free future is evident through its focus on designing packaging that is specifically intended for recycling (D4R). As an active member of the Polyolefin Responsibility Organisation (Polyco), a non-profit industry organization in South Africa, Nestlé remains resolute in its efforts to reduce plastic waste and create packaging that is recyclable, addressing the growing concerns surrounding plastic pollution. Nestlé’s goal is to have 100% of its packaging be recyclable or reusable, and to date, they have achieved 90% of that target.
Nestlé embraces the theme of #RecyclingHeroes which recognizes and applauds people, places and activities that showcase how recycling contributes to an environmentally stable planet and a greener future for all. Their recycling efforts are guided by three pillars: Rethink, Reduce, and Repurpose. These principles provide a practical roadmap for Nestlé to transform their operations and adopt more sustainable methods of production. By encouraging a shift in mindset, reducing waste, and finding new uses for materials, Nestlé is actively working towards a more sustainable future.
These three pillars guarantee that packaging, such as the innovative material utilized in Nestlé Nespray sachets, can seamlessly enter the recycling process, effectively reducing the amount of waste destined for landfills. The adoption of Designed for Recycling (D4R) materials has already led to a reduction of 78 tonnes of packaging waste per year, showcasing the substantial influence that purposeful design can have.
The South African Plastic Pact’s 2023 report highlights significant progress in waste management, with a reduction of 42 million problematic plastic items since 2020. This positive trend is supported by a thriving recycling industry that not only reduces pollution but also creates employment opportunities for reclaimers across the country. Nestlé has played a part in this momentum by actively reducing plastic usage, recognizing the increasing importance of sustainability.
In 2023, Nestlé achieved a 50% reduction in the amount of plastic used for pallet wrapping in its South African factories. This was made possible by implementing new shrink film technology that maintains strength and tear resistance while using less material. As a result, Nestlé successfully reduced plastic packaging by 115 tonnes on an annual basis. Nestlé has demonstrated its commitment to recycling by ensuring that several of its brands are now 100% Designed for Recycling. These brands include KitKat®, BarOne®, Tex®, Aero®, NESCAFÉ®, Nespray®, Klim®, and Milo®. These products, known for their delicious flavours and unique textures, have been designed with recycling in mind, furthering Nestlé’s dedication to sustainable practices.
NESCAFÉ in South Africa is actively working towards making nearly 100% of its packaging designed for recycling by the end of 2025. In addition to recycling, there are numerous practical ways for consumers to repurpose NESCAFÉ jars. These jars can be utilized to store various dry goods, serve as planters to enhance garden decor, be wrapped and used for thoughtful gift packaging, and even serve as decorative storage for stationery. By encouraging creative reuse, NESCAFÉ aims to extend the lifespan of its packaging and promote sustainable practices among consumers.
Nestlé is actively working towards reducing its reliance on virgin plastic, as it significantly contributes to environmental degradation. As of 2024, Nestlé has already achieved a 25% reduction in the use of virgin plastic. In 2023, the company successfully integrated 30% recycled plastic into all shrink film used in its packaging, resulting in an annual reduction of 190 tonnes of virgin plastic. These initiatives are part of Nestlé’s commitment to reduce virgin plastic consumption by 33% by 2025, aligning with its broader vision of environmental stewardship.
It is crucial to acknowledge the role of corporations in the global effort to reduce plastic pollution and work towards a more sustainable future. Nestlé’s initiatives serve as a powerful reminder that large-scale businesses have both the responsibility and the capability to lead by example. The company’s ongoing actions to minimize plastic waste, enhance recyclability, and design packaging for a circular economy reflect a long-term commitment to sustainability that goes beyond mere profitability.
Nestlé’s leadership in this area demonstrates that achieving plastic neutrality is not only possible but also attainable if companies prioritize sustainability as a fundamental part of their operations. As Mark Helfrich (Packaging Engineering Manager – Nestlé ESAR) aptly says “Plastic neutrality is not a choice—it is a necessity. We have the opportunity and responsibility to drive lasting change, and each step we take brings us closer to a world where waste is minimized and resources are preserved for future generations.”
Nestlé’s unwavering dedication to plastic neutrality provides hope that a future without waste is possible through innovation, collaboration, and determination. Their commitment also establishes a higher benchmark for corporate environmental responsibility, inspiring other companies to follow suit and contribute to a more sustainable world.
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Author: Khwezi Nkwintya from Nestle South Africa on behalf of Nestle South Africa.
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