From:Packaging News

Pernod Ricard is to ban single-use plastic and use 100% recyclable, compostable, reusable or bio-based packaging by 2025.

The global drinks giant has launched it 2030 Sustainability & Responsibility roadmap as part of the group’s strategic ‘Transform & Accelerate’ plan.

With more than 300 brands in the group, 99% of the packaging used by Pernod is glass, with some plastic outers, plastic bag in boxes, and some miniatures in travel retail.

The roadmap sets out eight ambitious and concrete 2030 targets supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Additionally, by 2030 the Group will pilot five new circular ways of distributing wine & spirits and help increase recycling rates in its top 10 largest markets with low recycling levels.

The company is also reducing bottle weight – the Absolut brand’s clear glass bottle now have a 43% recycled content rate.

Vanessa Wright, group VP sustainability and responsibility, told Packaging News that a survey showed that in the next 10 years consumers believe that they are going to be putting more emphasis on packaging than on price.

“If that’s the way things are moving then I think it’s a very clear indication as a business how we need to make sure that we are taking into consideration consumer concerns.”

She added that addressing the secondary corrugated was ‘clearly’ part of the sustainability targets of the group.

“POS [Point of Sale] items such as plastic ice buckets or beer mats are hugely wasteful and expensive to produce. We are trying to centralize POS buying and eliminate them from our business.”

Additionally, she said Pernod Ricard was ‘totally supportive’ of a DRS scheme if it helps improve recycling.

“We know that our customers have now come to expect our brands to be responsible and respectful of the environment – values that have been at the very heart of our business since its inception. These 2030 commitments provide us with a focused framework across our business in helping to address some of the biggest sustainability issues, so consumers can enjoy our products in a convivial and sustainable way.”