Nespresso launches 80% recycled aluminium coffee capsules

Nespresso has launched coffee capsules made using 80% recycled aluminium, as part of the company’s journey towards circularity. The move follows the introduction in March of machine boxes in fully recyclable packaging made of 95% recycled material.

“We are constantly challenging ourselves to improve the sustainability and circularity of our operations, including the way we source, use and recycle materials. Reaching 80% recycled aluminium in our capsules is a significant milestone, and something we have worked hard to achieve together with our suppliers,” said Jérôme Pérez, Nespresso Head of Sustainability.

Recycled aluminium is claimed to require less energy to produce than a virgin product, so it is well suited to use in a circular business model. Aluminium can also protect the freshness and aromas of high-quality coffee, providing a barrier against oxygen, light and humidity. Nespresso has used aluminium for its capsules for these reasons. Made of a thinner aluminium foil, each new capsule is produced using 9.2% less aluminium material, and is therefore 8% lighter.

The first capsules made from 80% recycled aluminium are the Original Line Master Origin Colombia coffee, introduced in March 2020 in selected countries, to be rolled out from July 2020 onwards. By the end of 2021, Nespresso aims to have the full Original Line and Vertuo ranges of coffee capsules made using recycled aluminium. Nespresso also aims to have all machines sold in 95% recycled material by the end of 2021.

Image credit: Nespresso