The Friday Report Blog: April 26th, 2024

Nestlé Marking a Significant Stride Towards Sustainability and Bottle-to-Bottle Circularity

Nestlé is set to introduce a new recyclable shrink sleeve label for its Nesquik flavored milk products by June, marking a significant stride towards sustainability and bottle-to-bottle circularity. This innovative packaging, which allows the cap, bottle, and sleeve to be recycled together seamlessly in the U.S., is the result of extensive research and development spanning five years. The technology not only supports recycling but also incorporates light-blocking features essential for preserving the quality of the beverages.

This initiative is part of Nestlé’s broader commitment to enhancing the recyclability of its packaging, targeting over 95% of its plastic packaging to be recyclable by 2025—a goal it is well on its way to achieving with a current rate of 83.5%. The update is expected to simplify the recycling of approximately 4,500 metric tons of PET plastic annually, ensuring it is more likely to be correctly sorted at recycling facilities.

Looking ahead, Nestlé plans to reduce the use of virgin plastics by one-third from its 2018 levels by 2025, further demonstrating its dedication to environmental stewardship across its global operations.

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Domino Sugar Celebrates Larger Shipments as the Baltimore Channels Reopen

Domino Sugar is celebrating the arrival of a substantial shipment of raw sugar at the Port of Baltimore, marking a positive stride forward following recent logistical challenges caused by the Francis Scott Key bridge collapse. The delivery, carried by the bulk vessel The Jonathan, utilized the newly reopened 20-foot-deep channel, ensuring the continuation of supply to Domino’s refineries in Baltimore and Yonkers, New York.

This recent development is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of Domino Sugar, which has maintained normal operations at its Baltimore factory despite the disruptions. The factory, capable of producing up to 6 million pounds of sugar daily, has a robust onsite supply that has kept it well-prepared.

Looking ahead, Domino is poised to receive more shipments through an upcoming 35-foot-deep channel, enhancing its logistical capabilities and solidifying its status as the largest sugar manufacturer in the U.S. The full reopening of the 50-foot-deep channel by the end of

May will further streamline operations, highlighting a seamless recovery and continued growth.

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Apple Taking a Firm Stand on Ethical Sourcing with Suppliers

Apple has taken a firm stand on ethical sourcing by severing ties with 14 suppliers last year who failed to meet its stringent responsible sourcing standards, as outlined in its latest Conflict Minerals Report to the Securities and Exchange Commission. This action underscores Apple’s commitment to upholding human rights and environmental standards across its supply chain.

The tech giant’s decision aligns with international guidelines, including those from the United Nations, and reflects its broader goal to achieve a carbon-neutral supply chain by 2030. These efforts are part of Apple’s ongoing strategy to ensure its products are not only innovative but also ethically produced, emphasizing the use of renewable energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

While Apple considers removing suppliers a last resort, the company insists on compliance with its rigorous standards to prevent humanitarian abuses and environmental harm. This proactive approach has led to the disengagement from 25 manufacturing facilities and 231 suppliers since 2009, illustrating Apple’s dedication to leading the industry in sustainability and ethical practices.

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