Water and Beverages Industry

EARTH5R© PARTNERSHIP CASE STUDY: DRIVING PLASTIC RECOVERY FOR A LEADING EUROPEAN WATER BRAND

ABOUT THE COMPANY

This European beverage company, renowned for its premium water, sought to address its supply chain footprint by initiating a large-scale plastic recovery and recycling program. Faced with growing regulatory demands and consumer scrutiny over carbon footprint, the company partnered with Earth5R to create a holistic, community-driven solution.

THE PROBLEM STATEMENT

The beverage industry’s reliance on plastic packaging was becoming a growing concern as European regulators began enforcing stricter waste management policies. Additionally, the company faced challenges in aligning its plastic waste recovery efforts with community engagement and circular economy principles, while also needing a structured reporting mechanism for its ESG goals.

EARTH5R’S INTERVENTION & SOLUTION

Earth5R deployed its advanced plastic recovery and recycling platform, helping the company design and implement a large-scale plastic credit program. Key actions included:

• Plastic Recovery and Recycling Initiatives: Earth5R organized large-scale plastic recovery efforts across local communities in Mithi River area at Mumbai, enabling the company to recover plastic waste generated from its products. The program was integrated by developing supply chain with local recycling facilities to ensure proper disposal and repurposing of plastic waste.
• Plastic Credit System: Earth5R partnered with a Europe based blockchain company and introduced a plastic credit model, allowing the company to offset its caron footprint. For every kilogram of plastic collected, the company earned plastic credits, which were incorporated into its ESG reporting, enhancing its transparency and accountability.
• Community Livelihood and Circular Economy: The program was designed around the principles of the circular economy, creating jobs in local communities by employing residents in the plastic collection and sorting process. This livelihood-driven approach not only reduced waste but also strengthened the local economy.

OUTCOMES

• Plastic Recovery at Scale: Through Earth5R’s intervention, the company successfully recovered 2,500 tons of plastic waste within the first year, significantly reducing its environmental footprint and meeting regulatory requirements in Europe.
• Plastic Credits for ESG Reporting: The company leveraged the plastic credit system to transparently report its plastic recovery efforts, improving its ESG performance and boosting investor confidence. This also led to a 30% improvement in its sustainability ratings.
• Empowering Local Communities: The plastic recovery program provided employment opportunities to over 1,200 individuals, integrating them into a circular economy that contributed to long-term social and environmental benefits.
• CO2 Reduction: The program is estimated to have prevented approximately 4,200 metric tons of CO2 emissions annually by diverting plastic waste from landfills and incineration.
• Regulatory Compliance: Successfully aligned with EU regulations, such as the Single-Use Plastics Directive, helping to avoid fines that can range from €100,000 to €1 million for non-compliance.
• Brand Reputation: Surveys showed a 15% increase in consumer loyalty and positive brand perception among eco-conscious consumers, translating to an estimated €10 million increase in revenue.