This archive report was first published on 27 June 2021.
Coca-Cola has made a major move towards sustainability in Kenya by introducing a new clear PET plastic bottle for its Sprite brand.
The clear PET plastic bottle is a significant shift from the iconic green bottle that has been the identity of Sprite since its launch in 1960.
This change is in line with Coca-Cola's World Without Waste vision, which aims to collect and recycle the equivalent of every bottle or can it sells by 2030, as well as use 50% recycled content in all its packaging.
According to Xavi Selga, Managing Director, Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA) – Kenya, the new clear PET plastic bottle is a plus in the company's efforts to grow its business while contributing towards more sustainable environmental practices.
Clear PET plastic can be recycled and reused to make a wider range of new products, such as pillow and duvet inners, as well as new bottles, making it more valuable than green PET, which has limited uses.
Kenya becomes the 4th African market where Coca-Cola has introduced the Sprite clear PET, after South Africa, Nigeria, and Ethiopia.
Debra Mallowah, Vice President, Coca-Cola East and Central Africa Franchise, said, "The shift from the green bottle to clear PET is a significant step in driving our sustainability agenda which is a key element of our business."
She added that the move also allows the company to work with partners in the recycling industry, and with waste collectors and aggregators to achieve more value for their recyclable plastics.
The new clear PET plastic bottle is 100% recyclable, and therefore increases the value of the plastic in the after-use market and its ability to remain in the circular economy to be reused for different purposes.
The new look Sprite will be available in all retail outlets and Coca-Cola distributors across the country starting June this year as the company clears out the green packaging from the shelves and the trade to ensure complete transition into the clear bottles.
