1. Packaging: Adjusting Expectations
Coca-Cola has softened some of its initial packaging targets, reflecting the difficulties in implementation:
- Percentage of recycled materials: Instead of reaching 50% by 2030, the company has adjusted down 35%-40% by 2035.
- Collection and recycling: Target for 100% collection and recycling of bottles and cans adjusted downward 70%-75% by 2035.
- Reusable packaging: Eliminates previous target of using 25% reusable packaging by 2030. Instead, Coca-Cola commits to Invest in reusable packaging in areas where the infrastructure is ready.
The company continues to focus on designing recyclable packaging and increasing the use of recycled content in its products. At the same time, Coca-Cola is committed to working with local partners to improve collection systems and invest in recycling infrastructure.
2. Water: Update on recovery commitment
In the water sector, Coca-Cola continues to implement initiatives to return water used in products back to nature and communities. Specific targets are updated as follows:
- Refund more than 100% of water usage in products globally, a commitment Coca-Cola has been making since 2015.
- Set a new goal of repayment 100% of total water at over 200 high-risk locations in 2035, instead of 175 locations by 2030.
These efforts show that the company is not only focused on global goals but also on areas that are at high risk of water resources.
3. Climate: Reshaping the Path
Coca-Cola has made significant changes to its climate goals, moving from an absolute emissions reduction commitment to an approach consistent with a 1,5°C pathway:
- Old target: Reduce 25% absolute emissions by 2030 compared to 2015 levels.
- New goal: Set Scope 1, 2 and 3 emission reduction pathways consistent with the 1,5°C target by 2035, using a 2019 baseline.
While no longer focusing on absolute emissions, Coca-Cola remains committed to investing and collaborating to reduce emissions across its entire supply chain.
4. Agriculture: No more specific goals but continue to make efforts
One of the most notable changes is that Coca-Cola eliminate agricultural targets previously required sourcing 100% of priority agricultural ingredients according to the company's Sustainable Agriculture Principles.
However, Coca-Cola affirms that it will continue to cooperate with suppliers and stakeholders to:
- Reduce water usage in agricultural production.
- Prevent deforestation and conservation of high-risk areas.
- Go to farmer's life and communities dependent on agricultural supply chains.
The company emphasizes that, while it no longer has an official target, it still maintains sustainability programs to achieve positive impact.
Statement from Coca-Cola leadership
Bea Perez, Executive Vice President and Director of Communications, Sustainability & Global Strategic Partnerships, shared:
“Increasingly complex environmental challenges require us to drive more efficient resource allocation and work closely with our partners. These updated targets are a step forward in our long journey towards sustainable development and shared value for our communities.”
Conclusion: Adjusting to Suit Reality
By updating its environmental targets to 2035, Coca-Cola is adapting to the complex realities of global sustainability challenges. While there are some mitigations, the company remains committed to taking practical actions to improve the environment, reduce climate impact, and ensure sustainable resource sourcing.
Coca-Cola continues to demonstrate that flexibility and adaptability are key elements in the journey to achieving long-term sustainability goals.