The new Mars sustainability report documents progress in the transition to environmentally friendly packaging solutions. According to the company, more than 64 per cent of its packaging is already recyclable, reusable or compostable.
According to its latest sustainability report, Mars converted 64.1 per cent of its consumer-facing packaging to reusable, recyclable or compostable alternatives in 2024. This brings the company closer to its goal of converting 100 per cent of all packaging accordingly by 2025.
At the same time, around 14,000 tonnes of recycled plastic were used in packaging production. Mars emphasises that this measure contributes both to the reduction of new plastic and to the promotion of a functioning circular economy.
Mars' packaging strategy is based on four pillars: eliminating unnecessary packaging, switching to recyclable materials, integrating recycled plastics and promoting collection and recycling infrastructures. This strategy aims to reduce the environmental impact along the value chain in the long term.
According to the report 21 per cent of all Mars packaging classified as „non-recyclable“. The greatest challenges lie in multilayer plastic composites and in countries without a suitable recycling infrastructure. Mars is therefore working with partners such as the Ellen MacArthur Foundation Global Commitment and the Consumer Goods Forum to promote systemic solutions.
Innovative pilot projects complement the measures: In France, for example, a completely paper-based packaging for „Kind Celebrations“ was tested. In the USA, Mars developed a solution for recyclable pouch packaging with reduced material usage. At the same time, investments in packaging design and material science are being expanded in order to accelerate scalability and market maturity.
Redemption and infrastructure support
According to the report, improving global collection and recycling systems remains a key component. Mars is involved in several industry initiatives to promote infrastructure investments in regions with low recycling rates. In India, Mars is working with local partners to support initiatives for the collection and processing of post-consumer plastic waste.
Classification
The progress made in the area of sustainable packaging is part of the company-wide net zero strategy. The ambitious goals are set in the context of increasing regulatory requirements and growing consumer expectations of sustainable product design. According to Mars, the greatest levers lie in material innovation, cooperation along the supply chain and the scaling of tried and tested solutions.
Source: Mars
