Coca-Cola is committed to sustainability by reducing energy use, waste, and packaging while improving efficiency across its value chain. The company aims to cut carbon emissions by 25% and achieve water neutrality by returning 100% of the water used in its beverages and production to nature.

In Southern Africa, Coca-Cola improved water efficiency by 22% between 2010 and 2014, replenishing 446 million liters of water in 2014. All facilities have completed source water protection plans to ensure water sustainability.

The company prioritizes recyclable and returnable packaging. In South Africa, returnable glass and PET bottles are reused until damaged, then recycled. In 2016, 57% of non-returnable PET bottles were collected and recycled. Coca-Cola is also investing in packaging innovations, including lightweight designs and plant-based materials like PlantBottle, which contains up to 30% plant-based components.

To promote recycling, Coca-Cola supports comprehensive collection programs, favoring curbside recycling over forced deposit systems to ensure consumer convenience and broader waste recovery. The company’s ultimate goal is to develop PET plastic entirely from local bio-waste, further advancing its environmental responsibility.
SOURCE: COCA-COLA.COM