The Australian Government will support a Planet Ark-led national, industry-wide recycling scheme for coffee capsules as part of the $20 million National Product Stewardship Investment Fund.
The project led by Planet Ark, and developed in partnership with Nespresso and Woolworths Group, aims to raise recycling rates, reduce organic material in landfill and increase access to collection points for the waste stream of coffee capsules.
Nespresso will bring its experience of running its own coffee capsule recycling programme in Australia, while Woolworths will work with the partners to evaluate how to make in-store capsule collection feasible, as well as the transport of the waste to recycling facilities.
The initiative is already supported by Vittoria, Ginders Coffee and Kruger ANZ.
“We are keen to work with other manufacturers so that all consumers buying capsules will have access to recycling. This is why we partnered with Planet Ark’s consortium, to make this a reality,” said Nespresso general manager Jean-Marc Dragoli.
Planet Ark CEO Paul Klymenko said the organisation was thrilled to be leading the development.
“It will accelerate the expansion of an industry-led product stewardship scheme for coffee capsules,” said Klymenko.
“This will enable Australians to enjoy their home-made espresso, knowing the product’s end-of-life is being managed responsibly.”
Woolworths 360 director Laurie Kozlovic said the business was proud to be working with Planet Ark to develop the initiative.
“We want to make sustainable choices easier for our customers and we look forward to offering them a convenient place to drop off their used coffee pods, knowing they’ll be saved from landfill and have a second life in a new product,” he said.
The funding is provided as part of the broader $167 million Investment Plan and National Waste Policy Action Plan introduced by the federal government to increase Australia’s recycling rates, tackle plastic waste and litter and halve food waste by 2030.
“Australians love their coffee, and this new product stewardship scheme for coffee capsules will reduce waste going to landfill, lift recycling rates and help consumers make a practical, positive difference for the environment,” said assistant minister for Waste Reduction and Environmental Management Trevor Evans.
In October, Planet Ark and APCO launched the Check It! Before you Chuck It initiative to educate Australians about sustainable packaging and inspire positive recycling behaviours.
