Mars Wrigley Australia has made a significant step towards sustainability, introducing all Australian-made chocolate bars to new paper-based packaging that can be recycled through traditional kerbside recycling.
As of April, the renowned brands MARS BAR, SNICKERS, and MILKY WAY will transition into paper-based packaging.
Once the transition is complete, Mars Wrigley will eliminate approximately 360 tonnes of plastic from its value chain. This effort will contribute to its aim of creating a circular economy and achieving the 2025 national packaging targets.
Following extensive research and development trials, the sustainably sourced paper-based packaging has invested over AUD 2.5 million into the project, which has been locally motivated through the enterprise's manufacturing site in Ballarat.
The company's eventual goal is to have paper-based packaging introduced globally using with Ballarat team's innovative research and development.
"The transition to paper-based packaging for our locally made chocolate bars marks a significant milestone in our sustainability journey," revealed Andrew Leakey, General Manager of Mars Wrigley Australia.
Leakey continued that the investment into local research and development has given the enterprise a chance to invest in athletic and innovative ideas and solutions, which has resulted in paper packaging, which is aligned with the company's goal of having a positive impact on the environment.
Also crucial was that the product quality be maintained in the new packaging in alignment with the company's standards. Secondly was the recycling accessibility of the packaging.
"As one of Australia's largest snacks and treats manufacturers, Mars is responsible for reducing our environmental footprint across our business, including packaging."
Chris Foley, CEO of the Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO), stated that Mars Wrigley's new packaging was a prime example of innovation within the food industry to meet packaging targets.
Foley revealed that the effort was an excellent example for all businesses in Australia, with packaging would be critical to the country's 2025 National Packaging Targets.
