Coca-Cola's Recycling Initiative at UK Olympics

Coca-Cola has announced the success of its "closed loop" recycling trial at the Paris Olympics, describing it as a significant precursor to the UK's upcoming deposit return scheme (DRS) set to launch in 2027. As a long-time partner of the Olympic Games, Coca-Cola implemented various sustainable practices, including the installation of 700 refillable drink fountains and the use of returnable glass and plastic bottles made from recycled materials. This initiative aligns with the company's "World Without Waste" goal, which aims to collect and recycle a bottle or can for every one sold by 2030. The Olympic and Paralympic Games provided a unique platform for testing packaging waste solutions, with Coca-Cola planning to apply insights gained in Paris to other closed-loop models, such as Ireland's new DRS. While the UK DRS will differ from the Paris model, where venues collected containers, Coca-Cola supports exploring various systems to improve collection rates, which have stagnated in the UK. The company previously trialed a cup deposit system at the Euros, where spectators paid a fee for reusable cups that were refunded upon return. Wouter Vermeulen, Coca-Cola's vice president for sustainability in Europe, highlighted the environmental impact of packaging, noting that it contributes to 30% of greenhouse gas emissions. Circular Economy Minister Mary Creagh emphasized the government's commitment to a zero-waste economy, while Jim Bligh from the Food and Drink Federation welcomed the government's plans for a DRS, stressing the importance of a cohesive approach across the UK.