Plastic Circularity for Beverages in Asia Pacific

October 2024

Asia Pacific accounts for the bulk of the world’s waste, especially plastics used heavily in beverages, thus there is a pressing need for beverage companies in the region to invest in sustainable packaging. This report analyses consumer trends and regulatory developments regarding sustainability in Asia Pacific, with case studies considering beverage companies’ strategies for achieving greater sustainability.

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Key findings

PET bottles account for a substantial share of beverage packaging

Within beverages in Asia Pacific, PET bottles accounted for 45% of total retail packaging in 2023. This is due to the packaging type’s affordability, portability and recyclability. Bottled water is expected to be one of the fastest growing categories for PET bottle packaging between 2023 and 2028, recording a 4% CAGR.

PET bottles constitute the bulk of plastic waste in Asia Pacific, with low recycling rates

Asia Pacific is seen as a dumping ground for plastic waste, with plastic beverage bottles being one of the leading items. Moreover, given the underdeveloped nature of waste management systems and fragmented recycling ecosystems, recycling rates remain low in the region, resulting in PET bottles frequently ending up in landfills and thus no longer being available for recycling.

Consumer concerns and regulatory pressures regarding sustainability are increasing

More than half of consumers surveyed in Asia Pacific seek to reduce plastic waste, reflecting growing consciousness of sustainability. At the same time, regulations such as Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) have been increasingly implemented across Asia Pacific, placing pressure on companies to take steps towards achieving plastic circularity.

Businesses have taken steps to promote sustainability through packaging changes and establishing recycling ecosystems

Businesses in Asia Pacific have been taking steps to strengthen their positions regarding sustainability, such as the use of 100% recycled PET packaging, as well as investing in recycling infrastructure through partnerships, creating an ecosystem to facilitate recycling through establishing recycling points, and providing incentives for consumers to participate.

Why read this report?
Key findings
PET bottles are the most used packaging type, and are becoming more sustainable
Energy drinks set to see fastest growth in PET bottles over the forecast period
Asia Pacific seen as a dumping ground for global plastic waste
Recycling ecosystems vary in Asia Pacific, with PET bottles being widely recycled
Informal workers in China and India remain important to enhance plastic circularity
Consumers are environmentally conscious, but high price points hinder consumption
Consumers are being price sensitive amidst high cost of living
Increasing regulations put pressure on plastic circularity in Asia Pacific
Case study: China’s government steps up efforts to reduce plastic pollution
Extended Producer Responsibility(EPR) set to gain traction in emerging Asia Pacific markets
Overview of EPR policy statuses in selected markets in Asia Pacific
Deposit return schemes an opportunity for markets in Asia to enhance plastic circularity
Collaboration amongst multiple stakeholders remains important for EPR’s success
The cost implications of environmental inaction on companies is high
In response, companies prioritise their corporate commitment towards sustainability goals
Recycled PET most prevalent among bottled water sustainability claims
Significant growth of coffee with “from recycled materials” claims in South Korea
Regional consumer goods players in Asia target packaging circularity and net-zero
Coca-Cola actively remains a leading force in promoting sustainability in Asia Pacific
Other major global companies also take pride in pushing for packaging sustainability
Local companies have strengthened their efforts in sustainability
Japanese companies adopts innovative solutions towards sustainability
Manage internal levers and costs to ensure effectiveness of sustainability initiatives
Recommendations for plastic circularity
Evolution of sustainability in beverage products in Asia Pacific
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