Nutella maker Ferrero targets move to sustainable packaging

The Ferrero Group has announced plans to make all its packaging 100% reusable, recyclable or compostable by 2025.

The producer of Nutella spread, Kinder chocolate and Tic Tac mints has also signed the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s New Plastics Economy Global Commitment.

Ferrero said it is committing to eliminating problematic or unnecessary plastic packaging through redesign, innovation and new delivery models.

The confectioner will invest in R&D and open innovation departments to maximise the use of recycled materials and explore projects to test new compostable packaging materials.

To boost local plant waste recycling initiatives, Ferrero is partnering with actors such as recyclers, national waste management systems and non-food companies to explore applications for difficult to recycle packaging structures and identify projects to use plant packaging waste.

“Ferrero has always taken a responsible approach to delivering high-quality product experiences that positively contribute to both today and tomorrow’s society,” said Giovanni Ferrero, executive chairman of the Ferrero Group. “This belief continues to drive us towards a responsible value chain by sourcing sustainably, producing sustainably and now by further strengthening our commitment to more sustainable packaging.

“We are pleased to announce our commitment towards 100% reusable, recyclable or compostable packaging by 2025 and signing The New Plastics Economy Global Commitment with the Ellen MacArthur Foundation allows us to support the acceleration towards a circular economy.”

Sander Defruyt, lead of the New Plastics Economy initiative at the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, added: “The New Plastics Economy Global Commitment unites businesses, governments and others behind a clear vision of a circular economy for plastic.

“We are pleased Ferrero is joining us, by setting concrete 2025 targets. Our vision is for a world where plastic never becomes waste or pollution. It will be a challenging journey, but by coming together we can eliminate the plastics we don’t need and innovate so the plastics we do need can be safely and easily circulated – keeping them in the economy and out of the environment.”