What is JAO's approach to sustainable packaging?
Our approach to packaging has remained consistent over the years, reflecting our ethos of functionality, modesty, and minimal environmental impact. While it may seem counterintuitive, some of our bottles are made from plastic rather than glass. This decision, though made with careful consideration, is driven by practical needs. Plastic bottles, particularly those made from recycled PET, actually have a lower carbon footprint compared to glass bottles. We use recycled PET containing at least 97% recycled material sourced from household waste. These bottles not only meet our performance needs but also significantly reduce environmental impact. By the end of 2021, 88% of our plastic bottles were made from recycled PET, and we aim to increase this further in 2022. We set an ambitious target of incorporating 50% recycled content in our plastic packaging by 2025; as of Q1 2022, we have achieved 53.8%.
Our commitments for 2030 include:
- Ensuring all packaging is reusable, recyclable, or compostable by 2025.
- Achieving an average of 50% recycled content across our packaging by 2025, with a short-term goal of sourcing 88% of PET plastic packaging from recycled PET by 2021, which has been achieved.
- Reducing packaging material by 20% or more by 2030.
- Implementing refill or closed-loop solutions for 50% of our packaging range by 2030.
- Offsetting through collection and reuse programs to ensure 100% responsible disposal of product packaging where recycling infrastructure is not available by 2030.
Current initiatives include:
- Transitioning to recycled plastic: Shifting the majority of plastic bottles from virgin PET to recycled PET, with a minimum of 97% recycled content. As of the end of 2021, approximately 88% of PET in our packaging is from recycled sources.
- Offering products without pumps: Expanding the range of 500mL products with a screw-cap instead of a pump to reduce plastic use by 12 grams per unit.
- Implementing packaging take-back systems: Continuing the Hong Kong SAR, China Rinse and Return program to reduce packaging waste from cosmetics and personal care products.
- Using FSC and PEFC certified paper: All secondary (cartons) and tertiary (transit shippers) packaging materials are made from FSC or PEFC certified paper, ensuring material traceability.
- Supporting the Australian Packaging Covenant: As a signatory, we are committed to packaging sustainability.