Tetra Pak has refreshed its Approach to Nature framework for responsible sourcing and water resilience, directing resources towards high impact materials, locations and supplier sites with ‘clearer expectations’ for traceability, verification and measurable outcomes.
Launched in 2024, the framework sets out over 20 targets across the value chain aiming to halt and reverse nature loss, restore ecosystems and enhance global water security, in alignment with international biodiversity goals. Drawing on insights gained from its rollout, the company has updated the framework to strengthen emphasis on upstream activities, where the company’s most significant nature impacts and dependencies occur.
Tetra Pak states that its Approach to Nature will still be structured around four key areas - Upstream, Operations, Downstream and Transform – but will now include targeted revisions to selected goals, such as using geographic information systems to verify the deforestation-free status of high-priority sourcing locations and reducing total water withdrawal by 10% by 2030, at suppliers with the highest water-related impacts. It also covers efforts to support the transition to a circular economy such as improved product design and performance, more efficient equipment and an optimized approach to collection, recycling and waste management.
The company adds that the updates strengthen responsible sourcing practices, sourcing 100% of the paper-based materials used in its products from FSC certified and other controlled sources, and 100% of plant-based polymers as Bonsucro certified. Tetra Pak claims it is delivering ahead of schedule on air pollution reduction, meeting its 2030 target to reduce volatile organic compound emissions across its production sites by 50% against a 2019 baseline.
The updated Approach to Nature also includes collaborating closely with suppliers, engaging Tetra Pak’s supplier base in nature‑related impact assessments and establishing relevant procurement requirements. The company aims to advance action on water resilience through ensuring high-impact suppliers report on water quality and quantity, while introducing target requirements to reduce water withdrawal intensity at those supplier sites.
In March, we examined how the top six FMCG signatories of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation (EMF)’s Global Commitment have performed and the initiatives they took in the reporting period of 2024-2025 to cut plastic waste and pollution across their portfolios. We outline each key metric set out by the Commitment, how each of the signatories - The Coca-Cola Company, L’Oreal, Mars, Inc., Nestlé, PepsiCo and Unilever - have approached these and the progress they have made.
More recently, Helen Chepkemoi Too, senior director markets at FSC International, detailed how rapidly evolving geopolitical realities and consumer expectations are affecting sustainability initiatives in the paper and pulp sector. She highlights that despite the difficulties with traceability, responsible sourcing backed by robust certification and assurance offers ‘a credible pathway forward’ even in the most complex supply chains.
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