ALPLA and Coca-Cola FEMSA’s joint venture strengthens the circular economy in Mexico

In Mexico, the need for sustainable waste management practices is particularly pressing, with big differences in plastic collection rates between urban and rural areas. Mexico City boasts an impressive plastic collection rate of 96%, but the story is vastly different outside urban centres. There are some areas where we see collection rates as low as 12%.

However, with the initiation of the PLANETA recycling plant, a joint venture between ALPLA and Coca-Cola FEMSA, both companies are taking significant steps toward enhancing the circular economy in Mexico. By accepting used PET bottles and supporting the collection of plastic, ALPLA is directly empowering individuals, families and neighbourhood associations known as ‘Socios Acopiadores’. Even in remote rural regions lacking proper collection infrastructure, ALPLA dispatches its trucks to gather recyclable materials from these ‘Socios Acopiadores’, bridging the gap in disposal structures. This initiative not only promotes responsible plastic handling but also creates vital opportunities for people’s livelihood.

The project anticipates creating more than 20,000 direct and indirect jobs during both the construction and operational phases. These employment opportunities are expected to have a positive impact on the region’s development and employment rates. With investment exceeding 80 million dollars, the PLANETA recycling plant will be equipped with state-of-the-art technology. The advanced facility will process 50,000 tonnes of post-consumer PET bottles annually, resulting in 35,000 tonnes of ready-to-use recycled PET material, perfectly aligned with our principles of a circular economy.