“Allies for Recycling” (AliadosPorElReciclaje is its original Spanish name) promotes collaboration between communities and organizations to improve recycling efforts. It is an initiative of Coca-Cola aiming to foster a circular economy for PET bottles. On “Grassroots Recyclers Day” in Chile, Orwak balers were part of the event as an example how PET bottles simply and safely can be compacted for recycling.
Promotes the circularity of PET bottles
“Allies for Recycling” brings together local organizations and supports grassroots recyclers with the aim of empowering them within the recycling system. The platform is focused on promoting the circularity of PET bottles and emphasizes teamwork and partnerships between different entities to enhance recycling processes. Grassroots Recyclers Day was organized in Maipú in Chile to strengthen cooperative recycling in the society.
Paola Calorio, Director of Public Affairs, Sustainability and Communications for Coca-Cola Chile, Bolivia & Paraguay at the Coca-Cola Company, reported from the day and commented:
“Today I want to share with you some news that fills us with pride and reaffirms our commitment to sustainability. As part of Grassroots Recyclers Day, we have taken another step in our goal of strengthening the recycling ecosystem in Chile.”*
Professional equipment to improve working conditions
Through the “Allies for More Cooperative Recycling” program, cooperatives in nine regions in Chile have benefited from professional equipment improving their working conditions and optimizing their work. For example electric trucks, balers and tricycles are now key tools for hundreds of grassroots recyclers to continue their valuable work with greater efficiency and safety.
The project was made possible through the support and funding of the Coca-Cola Foundation, in partnership with AlliesForRecycling partners and the equipment was delivered at the National Cooperative of Certified Recyclers in Maipú. The acting Minister of Environment, Maximiliano Proaño, and the Mayor of Maipú, Tomás Vodanovic, participated in the event.
Marie Deschaseaux, General Manager at Orwak’s sister company Sulo Chile commented:
“Watching this video posted by the great Paola Calorio, I reflect on how important perseverance and tenacity are to achieving great things. I’m also pleased to see that quality products are increasingly preferred, as the beneficiary cooperatives deserve. Thanks to all the AlliesforRecycling hashtags for reserving a privileged place for our ORWAK balers at your ceremony and for your trust.”