Coca-Cola Introduces 100% Recycled PET Bottles in Malaysia

Coca-Cola Malaysia has achieved a significant milestone in sustainable packaging by introducing 100% recycled plastic PET bottles for the first time in the country.

This eco-friendly initiative includes Coca-Cola Original Taste and Coca-Cola Zero Sugar 500ml bottles and is part of the company's global strategy to incorporate at least 50% recycled content in its packaging by 2030. The move aligns with Coca-Cola's commitment to building a circular economy, emphasizing the importance of collaboration to address plastic waste challenges.

Coca-Cola's efforts to promote sustainability in Malaysia have involved strategic partnerships aimed at enhancing closed-loop circular packaging. In October, the company hosted the "Our Future, Our Choice" sustainability forum in collaboration with the American Malaysian Chamber of Commerce, addressing the role of post-consumer packaging in advancing the circular economy. The forum included key stakeholders such as the Minister of Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change and the Malaysian Recycling Alliance.

Kirsten van Zandwijk, Director of Sustainability and Partnerships at Coca-Cola Company (Asean and South Pacific), emphasized the urgency of addressing the plastic waste challenge in Malaysia. The introduction of 100% recycled plastic bottles aligns with the brand philosophy of "Dari Botol Jadi Botol," emphasizing that every bottle has a second life. The company aims to expand collection and recycling programs while engaging Malaysians in recycling initiatives.

The launch event in Kuala Lumpur featured a panel discussion led by Coca-Cola Bottlers Malaysia's public affairs, communications, and sustainability director, Khairul Anwar Ab Gahani, and Coca-Cola Malaysia's PACS Frontline Manager, Wan Ahmad Syazwan Mohamed. They highlighted Coca-Cola's commitment to sustainable packaging, focusing on improving post-consumer packaging collection and moving towards a circular economy.

Wan Ahmad noted that recycled PET bottles have received positive responses in other countries, especially among environmentally conscious consumers, particularly those belonging to Gen Z or younger demographics. Khairul Anwar emphasized Coca-Cola's dedication to using recycled materials, contributing significantly to Malaysia's environmental goals and reducing reliance on virgin resources.

The 100% recycled PET bottles maintain high quality and adhere to Coca-Cola's global standards for food-grade, recycled plastic bottle packaging. The bottles are processed and manufactured locally in the Coca-Cola bottling plant at Bandar Enstek in Negri Sembilan, underlining their Malaysian origin.

Coca-Cola's commitment to sustainability extends beyond the launch of recycled PET bottles. The company initiated its Recycle Me! campaign for the second consecutive year, promoting awareness and action regarding plastic segregation and recycling. In collaboration with Aeon Malaysia, Hiroyuki Industries, and Trash4Cash, the campaign encourages consumers to collect PET bottles for cash rewards, reinforcing the value of recycling. Participants can easily scan the QR code on smart recycle bins for a seamless experience.

This sustainable packaging initiative marks a crucial step for Coca-Cola Malaysia in reducing carbon emissions, achieving environmental goals, and contributing to a more sustainable future. The company's dedication to circularity and recycling reflects its commitment to creating lasting contributions towards environmental conservation in Malaysia.