MMSM and our stakeholders are committed to moving toward a circular economy. But what is a circular economy? This is where products and packaging are designed so resources can be reused and reinvested in new products.
How is this different from recycling? Rather than having to find recycling solutions after a product is designed and brought to market, the recovery and material reuse is part of the design and manufacturing process of the product from the very beginning.
Watch this video by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation that goes into more detail about the circular economy.
Many of our stewards are dedicated to developing smartly designed packaging that can be reused, recycled, and refurbished. Some also offer take-back programs for their products after use. Here are some examples of what our stewards are doing to move from a linear economy to a circular economy.
Danone
Danone has partnered with the Ellen MacArthur Foundation to embed principles of circular economy both inside and outside the company. Through this partnership, the Ellen MacArthur Foundation will transition Danone’s brands toward a circular economy.
Evian, one of Danone’s brands is committed to become a full circular brand by 2025, having all of their plastic bottles made from recycled plastic.
Unilever
The company has also partnered with the Ellen MacArthur Foundation on a strategic partnership to unlock economic opportunities along its supply chain, focused on circular economy. The partnership will focus on streamlining packaging and manufacturing material streams, so it becomes a source of value creation within the business and stakeholder community.
Nestle Waters
The Nestle Group will aim to make 100% of its packaging recyclable or reusable by 2025. The company will focus on three areas: eliminate non-recyclable plastics, encourage the use of plastics that allow improved recycling rates, and eliminate or change complex combinations of packaging materials.