There is no single solution

The grand ambition we set out in 2020 has forced us to look critically at everything we do. It is a realistic ambition, and we have come on in leaps and bounds by constantly seeking ways to work together with our supply chain partners. There is still some way to go, so we must utilise the next two years to further consolidate the progress we have made. Having made many bold choices, we must now keep that transition going and safeguard it.?

Looking back, we know that the ambition we set out in 2020 mirrored the prevailing sentiment in society. Companies that are true pioneers in sustainability and responsible business will meet consumer and government demand as a matter of course. We try to make it as easy as possible for our customers to make the best choice, so that they automatically do sustainable business. Has it always been easy? Of course not. We have had to remove certain products from our range and replace them with more sustainable products. We have also phased out products and announced a transition period, which sometimes meets with resistance from our customers.?

Transparent

Nevertheless, we are bold and take action – in full disclosure and transparency. Some choices cause tension, like the colour additives in products, which we talk about openly. Our stakeholders really appreciate that openness. There is no single solution: you have to keep re-evaluating at what point you will use what material.?

Nuanced

We have seen how discussions are now much more fruitful and nuanced. It is not good to use virgin plastic, which is why we want to kick it out. If this cannot be achieved for a certain product, that product should at least be 100% recyclable. We are also happy to provide an explanation, even more so in response to the demand from a growing number of companies who want to know about a product’s footprint and see a product’s sustainability certificate. That is a positive development.?

Top of mind and within reach

We have made fantastic progress so far: just think of our ecoExpert products made of cardboard and Pristine, the trays without colour additives. We continuously evaluate the steps we are taking towards Horizon2025 – we adjust our course of action, or we explore other avenues. But the big goal is always top of mind. There are still many steps to take, but being free of virgin plastic by 2025 is within reach!?