The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has shifted the mindset of many environmentally conscious consumers, according to a new report from the Consumer Brands Association (CBA).
For businesses, being environmentally conscious has become a key priority through recyclable packaging, sustainable ingredient sourcing, reduced carbon emissions and other targets. McCormick and Co., for example, recently released an update on its sustainability goals, which outlined progress toward 100% sustainable sourcing and achieving more than 80% recyclable plastic packaging by 2025. The company also is planning to power its facilities in Maryland and New Jersey with renewable electricity by 2022.
“The era of shareholder only is over,” said Michael Okoroafor, vice president of global sustainability and packaging innovation at McCormick & Co., during a virtual presentation hosted by the CBA. “We are linking financial performance to how we treat people, how we deal with communities where we live, work and source and how we address issues around the planet.”
Conagra Brands, Inc. launched a new sustainable packaging design for its Swiss Miss Hot Cocoa, part of its larger goal to make 100% of its plastic packaging renewable, recyclable or compostable by 2025. Other manufacturers, including Mondelez International, Inc. and Campbell Soup Co., also have announced plans to achieve 100% recyclable, compostable or reusable packaging within the next 5 to 10 years. Read more…
