27 January 2023

90 Minutes to Close the Loop, Episode 8

Episode 8 of our web series covered how brands drive change in the value chain, what targets do they set to contribute towards achieving the 90% target of glass collection for recycling and what are the factors driving brands in the consumer good sector.

Extended Producer Responsibility is only a part of how brands get involved in the collection and recycling of packaging. How do brands drive change in the value chain? What targets do they set to contribute towards achieving the 90% target of glass collection for recycling? What are the factors driving brands in the consumer good sector?

Brands play a significant role in glass collection and recycling through the concept of extended producer responsibility (EPR). EPR is a policy approach that holds producers responsible for the end-of-life management of their products, including collection, transportation, and recycling or disposal. This shift in responsibility encourages companies to design products that are more easily recyclable and to invest in the infrastructure necessary for collection and recycling.

In practice, this can take the form of companies financing or operating their own collection and recycling programs, or contributing to government-run programs through fees or other means. Brands can also encourage recycling by clearly labeling their products with recycling information and by educating consumers on the importance of recycling and proper disposal methods. Overall, brands play an important role in promoting and implementing glass recycling through extended producer responsibility.

The presentations and panel discussion was thought-provoking and informative.  Tina Robertsson, Director Sustainable Performance Absolut Vodka, The Absolut Company, and Tim Moerman, Sustainability & ESG Director, AB InBev Europe shared their unique perspectives and insights on the role of brands in the value chain, delving into the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in their respective fields.

You can find their presentations below.

And if you missed the episode, you can watch it here: