Pepsi and Mineré Introduce Thailand's First 100% rPET Bottles via ENVICCO Recyclate

In a significant step towards sustainable packaging solutions, ALPLA and PTT Global Chemical jointly launched a state-of-the-art recycling facility in Thailand's Rayong province last September, operating under the banner of ENVICCO Limited. This pioneering facility has achieved a remarkable annual production capacity of 15,000 tons of recycled high-density polyethylene (rHDPE) and 30,000 tons of recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET). Of particular note, the rPET produced, referred to as InnoEco, has recently earned certification from the U.S. FDA.

Building on this transformative endeavor, Pepsi and Mineré have seamlessly incorporated ENVICCO's post-consumer recycled material into their plastic bottles. This integration has been accompanied by high-visibility campaigns aimed at raising awareness about the importance of collection and recycling. The overarching goal is to educate the Thai population about sustainable packaging solutions.

In a collaborative effort to promote sustainability, Suntory PepsiCo Beverage Thailand and the PMCU in Bangkok launched the "Fizzy Consciousness to Change the World" campaign. Simultaneously, Nestlé, 7-Eleven, and PTT Global Chemical's YOUTURN waste management platform have introduced a new slogan for Mineré: "Bottle made from Bottles."

Bernd Wachter, the Corporate Director of Circular Economy & Recycling Asia at ALPLA, emphasized the significance of investing in the circular economy. He stated that the environment, economy, and society derive benefits from the careful and efficient recycling of used plastics, which results in the creation of sustainable, affordable, and innovative products, along with the generation of new jobs.

Wachter further underscores the central role of raising awareness in promoting the circular economy. Increased consumer engagement contributes to higher collection rates, waste reduction, and a consistent supply of materials for recycling—a vital component of the sustainability journey.

Natthanun Sirirak, Managing Director at ENVICCO, elaborates on the remarkable achievement, highlighting that their materials exclusively comprise plastics sourced in Thailand. Through cutting-edge recycling technology, ENVICCO successfully restores value to used plastics. ENVICCO stands as one of Asia's largest mechanical recycling operations, boasting stringent adherence to quality, safety, and efficiency standards that enable the production of food-grade PCR material.

In a noteworthy packaging transformation, NEUE Water has taken steps to enhance its luxury artesian mineral water product, collaborating with Berry to execute a comprehensive redesign. The redesigned bottle boasts a flat body crafted entirely from 100% recycled PET, exemplifying durability for repeated reuse.

Henkel, a leading player in the industry, heralded the arrival of spring with a fresh design for its Pril Limited Edition dishwashing liquid brand. Significantly, this product contains 100% recycled plastic, with 50% of the material sourced from Germany's 'yellow bag' collection system—a testament to the brand's commitment to sustainability.

These initiatives collectively demonstrate a strong commitment to sustainability and the circular economy. By leveraging advanced recycling technology and consumer engagement, stakeholders are working together to create a more sustainable and environmentally responsible future.