Tetra Pak promotes recycling and the circular economy with sustainable packaging.

Recycling has become a vital topic on the global environmental agenda, and in this context, the role of companies and their relationship with consumers is fundamental. Tetra Pak, known for its Tetra Brik® packaging, has adopted a collaborative approach by working closely with recycling companies, waste managers, and local authorities. This joint effort not only allows packages to have a second life but also promotes the integration of their recycled materials into key sectors, contributing to a more circular economy. When citizens deposit Tetra Brik® containers in the yellow bin, it initiates a process that transforms these materials into valuable resources. At recycling plants, the packages, which are mostly made of cardboard, plastic, and a small proportion of aluminum, go through a hydropulper. This process involves mixing and agitating the containers with water to separate the paper fibers from the polyethylene and aluminum. The paper fibers are pressed and transformed into rolls that will later be used in a variety of products, while the polyethylene and aluminum are processed to create granulate, a fully recycled material. The polyal granulate obtained from this process has become a key resource for manufacturing innovative products. Companies like Keter have leveraged this raw material to develop attractive designer pots available in stores like Leroy Merlin. Similarly, CM Plastik has specialized in creating outdoor furniture, while other innovative firms, such as Nagami, use 3D printing to produce custom furniture from polyal granulate. These types of initiatives not only demonstrate the versatility of recycled material but also highlight the importance of seeking sustainable alternatives in manufacturing. In 2023, more than 112,000 tons of Tetra Brik® packaging were recycled in Spain, evidencing a significant advancement in recycling efforts. To continue improving these results, Tetra Pak has invested over two million euros in the country, increasing the recycling capacity of polyal from 3,000 to 10,000 tons annually. According to Chakib Kara, General Director of Tetra Pak Iberia, the company aims to reach 30,000 tons annually by the end of 2025, a figure that corresponds to the total polyal generated by used packaging in Spain. Tetra Pak's commitment to sustainability extends beyond recycling. Over the past ten years, the company has invested 100 million euros in improving the environmental design of its packaging. These investments focus on reducing plastic use and developing alternative materials that optimize the recyclability of their products. This strategy aims not only to mitigate environmental impact from the design phase but also to ensure that products are more planet-friendly. The results of these initiatives demonstrate that it is possible to transform waste into valuable resources. Tetra Pak is at the forefront of this transformation, showing that sustainability can be an integral part of the business model. The company is not only concerned about the lifecycle of its products but is also driving a shift towards a more sustainable future. By giving a second life to recycled materials, Tetra Pak is contributing to a circular economy that benefits both companies and consumers. This approach not only reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfills but also promotes innovation in the use of recycled materials, opening new opportunities for industries seeking sustainable alternatives. At a time when concern for the environment has never been higher, the ability of companies like Tetra Pak to lead the way towards a more sustainable future is crucial. Joint efforts among companies, consumers, and authorities can make a significant difference in the fight against climate change and environmental degradation. The responsibility of each of us is key in this process. By properly recycling our Tetra Brik® containers, we are not only contributing to a more efficient recycling cycle but also supporting initiatives that seek to transform our waste into resources that benefit society as a whole. Collaboration and commitment are essential to advancing towards a more sustainable world, and in this regard, Tetra Pak's role and its focus on the circular economy are examples to follow.