As part of an ongoing effort to reduce their environmental impact, Heineken UK announced they are eliminating plastic rings and shrink wrap from all their products beginning in April 2020, will a full rollout across their entire range by the end of 2021.
Plastic rings, used to keep multi-can packs together, will be replaced with a topper made from sustainably sourced cardboard, which Heineken describes as “robust and easy to grip.” The new carrier is 100% recyclable and compostable.
The beer conglomerate estimates that these changes will amount to 517 metric tons of plastic removed from the supply chain and is part of £22 million investment in sustainability by Heineken UK.
“The effect single-use plastic is having on our planet can’t be ignored. Creating an eco-friendly solution that eliminates plastic while still meeting the demands of our beer and cider drinkers has been a big focus in our business. Now, after years in development and huge investment, we’re extremely pleased to announce our recyclable and compostable topper innovation, a significant milestone in our journey to eliminate all single-use plastic,” said Heineken UK Marketing Director Cindy Tervoort in an announcement addressing the changes to the company’s packaging.
Cardboard toppers will start with Heineken, Foster’s and Kronenbourg 1664 brands, with the entire lineup to follow.
