Paid for by Coca-Cola Consolidated
You would be hard-pressed to find someone on Earth who has not at least heard of Coca-Cola. It is one of the world’s most recognizable brands and one of the largest non-alcoholic beverage corporations. From the classic red logo to the iconic polar bear mascots, Coca-Cola stands the test of time.
Todd Marty is the Senior Director of Public Affairs and Sustainability for Coca-Cola Consolidated (CCC), the largest Coca-Cola bottler in the United States. Although technically independent from The Coca-Cola Company, the two companies work closely together to provide beverages to their consumers.
Marty supports their sustainability efforts and has partnered with a local roadside litter collection company, Interstate Business Solutions, based in Indianapolis, to help increase recycling rates and reduce litter and landfill waste for the betterment of all Hoosiers.
“We met the IBS team at an event supporting state representatives in downtown Indy,” Marty says. “We quickly assessed that a partnership would help us both achieve our goals. IBS upcycles people through a second chance employer program where individuals recently returning from incarceration can find employment and other services that aid in their reintegration into society. Their services include keeping Indiana roadways clear of litter and debris. IBS has teams working throughout Indiana and other states daily. Increasing recycling rates and keeping our communities free of litter is important to Coca-Cola Consolidated. Our plastic bottles and aluminum cans are made to be remade, and we are using recycled material to make our new packaging. We need to get our packaging back so we can make new packaging again and again. Interstate Business Solutions is one example of creating partnerships in the communities we serve that truly help make a difference.”
CCC and IBS are joining forces to create a cleaner, more sustainable world, ensuring everyone can continue enjoying their favorite beverages together. CCC’s sustainability efforts focus on three main pillars: emission reduction, water leadership, and package recovery.
The bottles and cans produced by CCC are designed to be recycled. Through its Refresh. Recycle. Renew. Program, CCC aspires to have 100% of their packaging be recyclable or renewably sourced. It is committed to partnering with companies across the territories it serves, like IBS, to increase the collection and reuse of its products.
In addition to this, CCC is proud to say that 100% of its manufacturing sites convert waste into energy, and they seek to implement water use efficiency policies across all of their facilities.
Today, many people are seeking ways to limit their carbon footprint and help clean up the environment in general. CCC recognizes and applauds this growth of consumer consciousness. Even though many companies like CCC are doing what they can, it’s still important to recognize we are all in this together.
“Be aware that our packaging is made to be remade,” Marty says. “Understand what your local MRF (Material Recovery Facility) identifies as ‘recyclable.’ Make sure you utilize the appropriate bins to dispose of these recyclables so the waste streams can be kept clean and not contaminated.”
Looking toward the future, CCC continues to partner with their customer base, local government, and non-profit organizations to support their three pillars of sustainability. Always supporting the idea of a circular economy where innovative programs can help reduce waste and drive the reuse of bottles and cans.
Here in Indianapolis, CCC has several programs and projects underway that should improve recycling education and infrastructure, ultimately making our community cleaner and more efficient.”
