(News Trust of India) : In a daring move towards sustainability, beverage titan Coca-Cola has launched on a mission to build a bottle completely from paper, a big milestone in its pursuit of a ‘World Without Waste’. “Our aim is to create a paper bottle that replicates the recyclability of normal paper, and this prototype signifies our beginning entrance into this endeavor. The potential of a paper-based container stretches far beyond conventional packaging rules, and we firmly think that paper-based solutions have a crucial role in creating the packaging landscape,” commented Stijn Franssen, EMEA R&D Packaging Innovation Manager at Coca-Cola, spearheading the campaign.
Unveiling the blueprint for its initial paper bottle, Coca-Cola acknowledged its work with Paboco, a leading advocate for paper-based packaging, albeit with a caveat of residual plastic inclusion. Yet, in a clarifying blog post, the business revealed the prototype’s composition: a paper shell housing a plastic cap and interior lining. While emphasizing the usage of “100% recycled plastic for both the cap and liner, thereby ensuring recyclability post-use,” the brand highlighted its commitment to eliminating the need for plastic liners in upcoming generations.
The shadow of increasing plastic pollution looms big on a worldwide scale, regarded as a crucial environmental hazard, with an estimated 8 million tons of plastic garbage penetrating maritime ecosystems from coastal regions annually, as reported by National Geographic. The implications of plastic trash resonate sadly through the natural world, taking the lives of various animals, ranging from avian to aquatic. Nearly 700 species, including those teetering on the edge of extinction, face the weight of plastic pollution. In light of this ecological need, Coca-Cola promotes the paper bottle as a pioneering and sustainable packaging alternative. Moreover, the changeover needs severe adherence to established food safety and quality standards, requiring extensive testing processes on the prototype.
“Deliberations extend to customer attitudes regarding the paper bottle. Considerations such as market viability, recycling infrastructure, and customer acceptance are essential features under consideration. Comprehensive evaluation from all sides is vital to optimize the bottle’s utility and attractiveness,” confirmed the Innovation Manager, embodying the brand’s comprehensive approach towards innovation and sustainability.
