CCEP Launches Cross-Border Plastic Recycling Program Across Pacific
Plastic Recycling | 2026-05-05 06:05:24
CCEP said the program supports local collection networks, creating jobs and reducing environmental pollution.
By Paul Ploumis
SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Australia (CCEP) has launched a regional recycling initiative aimed at reducing plastic waste across Pacific Island nations by creating a cross-border circular economy model.
The program’s first milestone involves a 9.4-tonne shipment of community-collected PET plastic from Vanuatu, which will be processed in Melbourne at Circular Plastics Australia PET’s Altona North facility. The recycled material will be converted into food-grade resin for new beverage bottles.
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Pacific nations often lack adequate recycling infrastructure, leaving most plastic waste unmanaged. The initiative addresses this gap by transporting collected PET to Australia for processing, enabling island communities to participate in a modern recycling ecosystem.
CCEP said the program supports local collection networks, creating jobs and reducing environmental pollution. Additional shipments from Fiji and Papua New Guinea are expected soon, with expansion plans covering Samoa and Tonga.
The initiative could import up to 2,000 tonnes of PET annually, rising to 6,000 tonnes. Backed by partners including Swire Shipping, the program strengthens regional recycling capacity and supports sustainable packaging goals.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the goal of the initiative?
To reduce plastic waste in Pacific Island nations by creating a cross-border recycling system.
- How does the program work?
PET waste collected locally is shipped to Australia, processed into food-grade resin, and reused in beverage packaging.
- Which countries are involved initially?
The first shipment came from Vanuatu, with plans to include Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, and Tonga.
