Sprite bottles in NZ go clear for better recycling

Sprite clear transition credit Coca Cola Europacific Partners
Sustainability

Coca-Cola in New Zealand has made an important move towards sustainability by transitioning its iconic Sprite green plastic bottles to clear plastic.

The new clear bottles are easier to recycle into new bottles, compared to green PET plastic which is typically recycled into single-use items like clothing and carpet.

The change reflects the company's commitment to prioritise sustainability and promote packaging circularity, and has already been completed or is in process in over 100 countries.

The transition affects all pack sizes of Sprite Classic bottles in PET plastic packaging, while Sprite No Sugar will now feature a new-look black logo and name, Sprite Zero Sugar, to align with Coca-Cola's Zero Sugar range.

Sprite clear transition credit Coca Cola Europacific Partners
Sprite clear transition © Coca Cola Europacific Partners

The transition is expected to be completed by June 2023, as retailers sell through existing stock.

This marks a significant change for the second-largest brand of The Coca-Cola Company, which has been sold in green bottles since its introduction in the United States and internationally in the 1960s.

Julie O’Toole, Country Lead for Coca-Cola Oceania, said: While all our cans, glass and plastic bottles are already accepted for recycling in New Zealand, this move to clear takes us a step further towards a circular economy for our packaging. The shift from signature green to clear Sprite bottles will support local recycling systems as we increase these bottles' likelihood of being remade into new bottles. We know it is the right thing to do to make this change.

Latest Packaging News

John Lewis highlights EPR packaging levy in increased first-half losses
Business

John Lewis highlights EPR packaging levy in increased first-half losses

The John Lewis Partnership has reported that its losses for the first half of the year nearly...
Western Australia to accept wine and spirit bottles in refund scheme from 2026
Sustainability

Western Australia to accept wine and spirit bottles in refund scheme from 2026

The Government of Western Australia has confirmed that its Containers for Change deposit return...
Walkers Chocolates introduces recyclable paper wrapper
Sustainability

Walkers Chocolates introduces recyclable paper wrapper

UPM Specialty Papers has partnered with EvoPak to support Walkers Chocolates' transition from a...
Labelexpo Europe 2025 opens next week: all you need to know
Events

Labelexpo Europe 2025 opens next week: all you need to know

For the industry following its 45-year history, this edition will mark an important milestone,...
Strongbow launches accessible drinks packaging using QR codes
Technology

Strongbow launches accessible drinks packaging using QR codes

Strongbow, the cider brand owned by HEINEKEN UK, has introduced NaviLens technology to its...