Mondelēz International in the Philippines has achieved a significant milestone in its sustainability journey by receiving the Plastic Cleanup Partner Seal from PCX Markets. This recognition underscores the company’s commitment to sustainable practices and its adherence to the Philippine Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Law, as well as its ongoing efforts to manage plastic waste in the snacking industry.
The Plastic Cleanup Partner label is awarded to companies that take measurable actions to clean up plastic waste. Mondelēz International’s involvement in this initiative is part of a broader sustainability strategy focused on reducing packaging waste, evolving packaging designs, and improving recycling systems to contribute to a circular economy. PCX Markets operates as a plastic credit marketplace that collaborates with organizations to collect and divert post-consumer plastic waste through a transparent and socially responsible framework.
In addition to receiving the Plastic Cleanup Partner Seal, Mondelēz International discussed its ongoing efforts to support the EPR Law. The company is committed to complying with the law’s guidelines and actively participates in initiatives aimed at making packaging materials more circular and less wasteful. For every kilo of post-consumer plastic packaging introduced to the market, Mondelēz ensures an equivalent amount is collected and diverted from nature in the Philippines, exceeding the 40% collection requirement set for 2024.
Mondelēz’s sustainability programs extend beyond certification. The ‘Trash Right’ program educates teachers and schoolchildren about waste management and plastic collection, engaging 27 public elementary schools in Parañaque City in collaboration with ocean advocacy group Save Philippine Seas. Through this initiative, Mondelēz has successfully collected nearly 10 metric tons of plastic for diversion and upcycling.
The company has also launched two new Aling Tindera sites in Parañaque City, providing local collection points to support community recycling efforts. This program empowers women micro-entrepreneurs running small “sari-sari” stores to become sustainability leaders by allowing local residents to sell their plastic waste directly to them. These women collect, clean, and store the plastic for responsible processing while receiving compensation for each delivery.
Mondelēz International’s commitment to diverting plastic pollution is part of a wider sustainability plan. Globally, the company aims for 98% of its packaging to be designed for recyclability and plans to reduce its use of virgin plastic by 2025.
With ongoing efforts and future commitments, Mondelēz International strives to enhance its collection and diversion of post-consumer plastic packaging, making sustainability a core aspect of its operations and contributing to a circular economy where plastic is viewed as a valuable resource rather than waste.
