Tetra Pak boosts circular economy with ‘Cartons for Communities’

In the Philippines, where food security and waste management remain pressing challenges, food processing and packaging solutions company Tetra Pak is strengthening its commitment to sustainability through its Cartons for Communities (CFC) program, an initiative that promotes carton recycling, supports livelihoods and helps build a circular economy.

CFC saw the collection of more than 700 tons of used cartons in 2024, an 80 percent increase from 2023. Working with partners such as Rural Industrial Corporation and Axelum Resources Corporation, the program transforms used cartons into chipboards, roofing sheets and other useful products for furniture, housing and school facilities.

Beyond recycling, the program raise public awareness about the value of carton packaging and its role in creating a circular economy. 

The company has expanded the reach of CFC by partnering with local government units and schools across the country to strengthen collection systems and promote sustainable practices at the community level.

In an interview with the DAILY TRIBUNE, Catherine Chua, sustainability manager of Tetra Pak Philippines, says the company supports food manufacturers in lowering their environmental footprint by reducing waste as well as lowering water and energy consumption through data-driven technologies.

“One example is an ice cream system that was developed to be highly data-driven, allowing the manufacturer to determine which points in the production line produce the most waste,” she says. 

“It then provides feedback to the user. For example, ‘Since you have this much waste, how can we minimize it?’ All of these solutions that we roll out into the market contribute to our 2030 net-zero target.”

Chua adds, “There’s a very large footprint in food manufacturing, and it starts with food. Once we’re able to minimize the impact of food manufacturing, we can also substantially minimize our overall impact.”

Tetra Pak’s aseptic carton packaging also plays an important role in ensuring that safe and nutritious products reach remote or disaster-affected communities. By keeping milk, juices, and other products shelf-stable without refrigeration, the company helps reduce food waste and improve access to nutrition in vulnerable areas.

Terrynz Tan, sustainability director of Tetra Pak ASEAN, says the company is ready to collaborate with partners, LGUs, schools and communities, and invites everyone to join in building a stronger circular economy.

Globally, Tetra Pak’s 26th Sustainability Report notes a 54 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions within its operations and 94 percent renewable energy consumption, keeping the company on track toward net-zero emissions by 2030.

By integrating innovation, partnerships, and education, Tetra Pak continues to support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), ensuring that sustainability translates into tangible benefits for Filipino communities.