The Coca-Cola Company has announced new environmental targets that reflect its ongoing commitment to sustainability. With an eye toward 2035, the company aims to drive progress in three key areas: water security, sustainable packaging, and climate action. These updated goals mark a continuation of Coca-Cola’s commitment to integrating sustainability across its global operations and supply chain, focusing on resource efficiency and environmental stewardship.
Water Security: Leading Global Replenishment Efforts
Since 2015, Coca-Cola has achieved a remarkable milestone, replenishing more than 100% of the water used in its products globally. Now, the company is taking this commitment a step further by focusing on specific replenishment efforts in over 200 high-risk water locations. These regions, which account for nearly one-third of Coca-Cola’s global operations, were identified through detailed risk assessments and will be prioritized for replenishment efforts moving forward.
Coca-Cola’s commitment to water security includes a reassessment of its facility risk profiles every five years to ensure that its resource management strategies are aligned with evolving water security needs. The company aims to strengthen local water sources through innovative partnerships and investments in water conservation, providing sustainable access to clean water for communities in high-risk areas.
Sustainable Packaging: Reducing Waste Through Innovation
As part of its ongoing sustainability agenda, Coca-Cola is setting ambitious goals to make its packaging more sustainable. By 2035, the company plans to incorporate 35%-40% recycled materials into its primary packaging and achieve a collection rate of 70%-75% for its global packaging waste. With over 95% of Coca-Cola’s packaging already recyclable, the company continues to innovate to address the remaining non-recyclable materials.
In addition to enhancing recycling, Coca-Cola is focused on improving collection systems worldwide. The company plans to invest in refillable packaging solutions and advocate for better collection infrastructure, particularly in markets where waste management systems are less developed. Through these efforts, Coca-Cola aims to create a circular economy for its packaging, reducing waste and encouraging the reuse of materials.
Climate Commitment: Tackling Emissions Across the Value Chain
Coca-Cola has set ambitious climate targets aligned with the global goal of limiting temperature rise to 1.5°C. The company is committed to reducing Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions across its entire value chain by 2035, which includes direct emissions from operations, emissions from energy consumption, and emissions embedded in supply chain activities.
Coca-Cola’s climate strategy focuses on integrating sustainability into its acquisitions and expanding its energy-efficient practices. To achieve these targets, the company will leverage innovation in operations, promote the use of renewable energy, and collaborate with partners to reduce emissions across the entire value chain.
Post-2035: Continued Focus on Sustainability
Looking beyond 2035, Coca-Cola has signaled that while it will discontinue formal agricultural goals, it will continue its sustainable sourcing practices. These efforts will focus on preserving natural resources, preventing deforestation, and supporting agricultural communities worldwide.
Coca-Cola’s sustainability journey will remain dynamic, with the company pledging to provide annual progress reports and adjust its strategies as market conditions and stakeholder expectations evolve. The company recognizes that collaboration, targeted investments, and well-designed policies are essential for creating long-term, shared value for society.
Conclusion
Coca-Cola’s updated environmental goals reflect a bold vision for a sustainable future. With a focus on water security, sustainable packaging, and climate action, the company is taking important steps toward reducing its environmental footprint and contributing to global sustainability efforts. By working collaboratively with stakeholders, investing in innovative solutions, and adapting to evolving challenges, Coca-Cola aims to build resilience and create lasting positive impact across its operations and beyond.
References:
- Coca-Cola’s Annual Sustainability Report
- Coca-Cola’s Press Release on Updated Environmental Goals
- Global Water Security and Sustainable Packaging Initiatives
