Nairobi – As the world commemorates World Environment Day, Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA) in Kenya proudly announces its continuing dedication to creating a sustainable future by taking significant steps to combat plastic pollution. With a steadfast commitment to reducing its environmental impact, the company has adopted the initiative created by The Coca-Cola Company (TCCC) to build a World Without Waste by actively promoting a responsible culture of proper waste segregation, collection, and recycling across Kenya.

Under the theme of this year’s World Environment Day, #BeatPlasticPollution, CCBA in Kenya aims to highlight several of the key initiatives that the company has been implementing over the last few years and raise a call to action to other companies, manufacturers, community members and individuals to play their part to #BeatPlasticPollution. These initiatives include:

Promoting extended producer responsibility: CCBA in Kenya has been the largest voluntary member of PETCO (now PAKPRO) since 2018, the first Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO) in Kenya. CCBA in Kenya believes it is important for companies to take responsibility for post-consumer packaging that goes out in market and urges all manufacturers and brand owners to take on this responsibility. Together, through the vehicle of the PRO, we can #BeatPlasticPollution by joining resources to support the effective segregation, collection, and recycling of packaging.

Contributing to the circular economy: The circular economy aims to minimise waste and maximise the value of resources. PET bottles are highly recyclable and have post-consumer value globally. For this to be successful, segregation, collection and recycling systems need to be in place and CCBA in Kenya has been working with various partners to foster a culture of proper segregation and collection.

Product packaging design: Key to ensuring high rates of collection and recycling is product design. CCBA in Kenya has been working with PET recyclers to understand how to make products more recyclable and significant changes to product design have been made. Some of these include the Sprite bottle going clear from green, the neck sleeve from Dasani and light weighting various bottes to reduce plastic going into market. There is continuous research and development conducted on all products to improve on product packaging design.

Partnerships: CCBA in Kenya has been actively collaborating with various partners to #BeatPlasticPollution which include HORECA partners, residential estates and community partners. The partnerships have focused on investing in recycling infrastructure, supporting waste collection initiatives, and promoting the value of recycling, by setting up segregation and collection points across the country.

Waste Management Support: The post-consumer PET value chain can create economic benefits to the various waste managers who collect and sell post-consumer PET, especially women and youth groups. CCBA in Kenya has worked with several waste management groups to improve waste collection practices and grow their business. Through these partnerships, CCBA in Kenya has provided training on waste management and business skills, provided equipment to support PET collection and provided Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and promoted safe waste management practices.

Public Awareness and Education: CCBA in Kenya believes in the power of education and awareness to drive positive behavioral change. Educating consumers about responsible waste management, the importance of recycling, and the benefits of reducing plastic pollution through its platforms and messaging carried on its packaging, CCBA empowers individuals, communities, and businesses to make more informed choices that contribute to a cleaner and greener environment.

CCBA in Kenya invites its consumers, stakeholders, and partners to join hands in the journey towards a World Without Waste. The company firmly believes that by working together, it can achieve significant progress in tackling plastic pollution and preserving our planet for future generations.

“As a leading beverage company, we understand our responsibility to protect and preserve the environment,” said John Mwendwa, the Public Affairs, Communication and Sustainability Director at CCBA in Kenya. “We are fully committed to reducing plastic waste, promoting recycling, and encouraging sustainable practices throughout our operations. By embracing innovation, collaboration, and education, we aim to create a positive and lasting impact on the environment, making Kenya a cleaner and more sustainable place for all.”

*Update* On December 2, 2024, The Coca-Cola Company announced updated voluntary environmental goals. Read more here: The Coca-Cola Company Evolves Voluntary Environmental Goals