We want to build a shared future where packaging gets a new life

By: Trademagazin editor Date: 2023. 09. 06. 11:14

Managing packaging waste is a global problem, which can only be solved if we all work together, from large companies to individual consumers. Our magazine has interviewed Judit Szalóky Tóth, public affairs, communications and sustainability manager of Coca-Cola Magyarország, and vice president of the Green Chapter of the Hungarian Marketing Association.

– Which sustainability trends are the most important for the industry in meeting consumer needs?

Judit Szalóky Tóth
public affairs, communications
and sustainability manager
Coca-Cola Magyarország

– A large proportion of Hungarian consumers, nearly 40% are eco-active, which is more than the European average. Today approximately six out of ten consumers are trying to buy products packaged and produced in an environmentally friendly way.

– Working for a circular economy is a priority for the industry. What steps is Coca-Cola taking in this direction?

– We are working to create a sustainable future, where our packaging materials get a new life. Our sustainable packaging strategy is about systemic change – from the design and manufacture of bottles and cans to recycling and reuse. Under global commitments made in Coca-Cola’s World Without Waste programme in 2018, all of our primary beverage packaging will be 100% recyclable by 2025.

– What results has Coca-Cola achieved in quantifying, measuring and reporting targets?

– Recently the KeelClip solution has replaced the shrink film in our 4– and 6-pack multipacks with 100% recyclable cardboard, reducing our plastic use by around 230 tonnes per year. Since 2010 we have cut plastic use in PET bottle production by 20%, and we use 170 tonnes less aluminium per year for the can packaging we manufacture in our factories.