Eco-refills of 26 branded products helped reduce the use of plastic in packaging by 80%
A French expedition Plastic odyssey has just arrived in Brazil sponsored by fellow countrywoman LOccitane. Moored at the Port of Recife (PE) since the 3rd of May, the ship will remain in Brazilian waters until the 22nd of the same month, during which time it will train local entrepreneurs to handle plastic recycling machines.
The vessel has 30 crew members, including scientists and volunteers.
Conceived by engineer and French naval officer Simon Bernard in 2018, the project departed from the Port of Marseille, France, in October 2022, and will visit 30 ports on three continents in three years. The outcome is expected to occur in Asia, in 2024. About 300 entrepreneurs should be trained.
LOccitane’s founders were delighted with Simon’s entrepreneurial spirit, reports Paula Cremonezzi, sustainability manager at Grupo LOccitane. In the last seven months, the expedition reached 111 entrepreneurs and trained 57 of them, in addition to setting up three microfactories. The project also raised the awareness of two thousand children about the correct disposal of plastics, and received three thousand visitors.
The results demonstrate the project’s potential to promote positive changes in the fight against pollution, says Simon Bernard, CEO and co-founder of Plastic odysseywhich adds up to 20 sponsors.
Bernard notes an increased awareness of brands about their impact on the environment. As a response to pressure from consumers, shareholders and regulatory bodies, the adoption of sustainable practices has become a business issue, capable of improving reputation, increasing loyalty and reducing costs.
There is still work to be done to ensure that everyone takes responsibility for their impact on nature, argues Bernard. To attract partners, the expedition publishes results and highlights the use of entrepreneurship as a differential in combating pollution. Working with organizations that share the same values and goals also helps to increase the scope of the project.
Read the full article in the May 8 issue
