Earth5R

Water and Beverages Industry

Earth5R© Partnership case study: Driving plastic recovery for a leading European water brand

ABOUT THE COMPANY

This European beverage company, primarily known for its premium water, sought to address its supply chain footprint by launching a large-scale plastic recovery and recycling program. Due to growing regulatory demands and consumer scrutiny over their carbon footprint, the company teamed up with Earth5R to create a holistic, community-led solution.

THE PROBLEM STATEMENT

The beverage industry’s over-reliance on plastic packaging was becoming an alarming issue as European regulators began enforcing stricter waste management policies. The company also faced challenges in aligning its plastic waste recovery efforts with community engagement and circular economy principles. In addition, they also needed a structured reporting mechanism for its ESG goals.

EARTH5R’S INTERVENTION & SOLUTION

Earth5R launched its advanced plastic recovery and recycling platform which helped the company design and implement a large-scale plastic credit program. Key actions included:

  1. Plastic Recovery and Recycling Initiatives: Earth5R organized a scalable plastic recovery initiative across local communities in Mithi River area at Mumbai, enabling the company to recover plastic waste generated from its products. The project also involved the local community in its efforts by developing a supply chain with local recycling facilities to ensure proper disposal and repurposing of plastic waste.
  2. Plastic Credit System: Earth5R collaborated with a Europe-based blockchain company and introduced a plastic credit model which allowed the company to offset its carbon footprint. For every kilogram of plastic waste collected, the company earned plastic credits, which were incorporated into its ESG reporting. This enhanced its transparency and accountability.
  3. Community Livelihood and Circular Economy: The project was designed around the principles of the circular economy.  It also created jobs in local communities by employing residents in the plastic collection and sorting process. This livelihood-driven approach reduced waste while strengthening the local economy.    

 

Learn more about Earth5R’s sustainability impact and community engagement programs.

OUTCOMES

  1. Plastic Recovery at Scale: Through Earth5R’s intervention, the beverage company successfully recovered 2,500 tons of plastic waste within the first year. They significantly reduced their environmental footprint and met the regulatory requirements in Europe.
  2. Plastic Credits for ESG Reporting: The company used the plastic credit system to transparently report its plastic recovery efforts while improving its ESG performance and boosting investor confidence. This also resulted in a 30% improvement in its sustainability ratings.
  3. Empowering Local Communities: This plastic recovery program provided employment opportunities to over 1,200 individuals, engaging them into a circular economy that contributed to long-term social and environmental benefits.
  4. Carbon Dioxide Reduction: The program is estimated to have prevented approximately 4,200 metric tons of Carbon Dioxide emissions annually by preventing plastic waste from reaching landfills and getting incinerated.
  5. Regulatory Compliance: The program successfully aligned with EU regulations, such as the Single-Use Plastics Directive. It helped the company avoid fines that can range from €100,000 to €1 million for non-compliance.
  6. Brand Reputation: Surveys showed a 15% rise in consumer loyalty and positive brand perception among environment-conscious consumers, translating to an estimated €10 million hike in revenue.

THE ROAD AHEAD

The beverage company plans to expand its plastic credit and recovery program across multiple regions, using Earth5R’s platform to create an even greater environmental and social impact. With Earth5R’s continued support, the company is ready to achieve its goal of full plastic neutrality by 2028.

By utilising Earth5R’s community-focused circular economy model, the company not only addresses its plastic waste problem but also enhances its role as a sustainability leader in the global beverage industry.

About Earth5R Platform

Earth5R is an ESG and CSR “Action” platform that initiates large-scale plastic recovery and recycling programs while integrating community livelihoods into circular economy frameworks. With transparent data management and reporting, Earth5R ensures businesses meet their sustainability goals while creating lasting social impact. 

Earth5R’s work has contributed to offsetting over 954,000 tons of Carbon Dioxide emissions, planting 87,000 trees, and engaging 1.3 million citizens worldwide. By using their advanced technology and its award-winning app, Earth5R enables individuals, governments, and businesses to collaborate and build sustainable and resilient communities.