Danone Reinforces Plastic Packaging Vigilance Plan After NGO Agreement

A Pioneering Step Toward Sustainable Packaging

In a landmark move for corporate sustainability, Danone has revised its plastic vigilance plan following an agreement with environmental NGOs. This development marks a significant shift in the company’s approach to plastic risk management, transparency, and reuse solutions.

The agreement, facilitated by the Paris Judicial Court, ends a lawsuit filed by a coalition of NGOs—ClientEarth, Surfrider Foundation Europe, and Zero Waste France—which challenged Danone’s compliance with France’s Duty of Vigilance law.

With this new commitment, Danone aims to lead the food industry toward a circular economy by reducing single-use plastics, enhancing transparency, and adopting innovative sustainability measures.

Redefining Corporate Responsibility in Plastic Use

The Duty of Vigilance law, enacted in France in 2017, mandates large corporations to identify and mitigate risks related to human rights, environmental impact, and public health.

In January 2023, the three NGOs accused Danone of neglecting plastic-related risks in its vigilance plan. Their concerns revolved around the company’s reliance on recycling as a primary solution, which they deemed insufficient for tackling plastic pollution.

Following two years of legal proceedings, Danone agreed to:

• Update its vigilance plan to identify risks associated with plastic use.
• Enhance policies for risk mitigation and prevention, focusing on reuse solutions.
• Publish its plastic footprint, offering greater transparency.
• Hold annual discussions with NGOs from 2025 to 2027 to track progress.

A Collaborative Approach to Change

Danone described the mediation process as an open and constructive dialogue, stating that the discussions with NGOs helped refine its sustainability commitments.

The NGOs, in turn, acknowledged the progress made, with Zero Waste France’s spokesperson, Kamila Drzewicka, emphasizing that this is the first time a vigilance plan has explicitly mapped the risks of certain plastics and additives across their entire lifecycle.

Advancing Reusable and Circular Packaging Solutions

A key aspect of Danone’s updated vigilance plan is a strong push for reusable packaging. The company recognizes that simply substituting plastic with other single-use materials is not a long-term solution.

Key Commitments:

• Expansion of reuse models: Developing and scaling bulk and refill solutions.

• Transparency in pilot projects: Sharing details on nature, duration, and impact.

• Improved waste management: Supporting workers in plastic collection and recycling.

• Scientific monitoring: Assessing the impacts of microplastics on human health and the environment.

By integrating these circular economy principles, Danone is taking concrete steps toward minimizing its plastic footprint while ensuring sustainable business practices.

Bridging the Gap Between Corporations and Civil Society

The agreement’s significance extends beyond Danone—it sends a strong message to the entire food and beverage industry about the importance of corporate accountability in plastic waste management.

• Annual check-ins with NGOs will ensure continued progress until 2027.
• The updated vigilance plan serves as a benchmark for other corporations.
• Danone aims to work with public and private partners to overcome regulatory, technical, and financial barriers in developing circular solutions.

Legal and Industry-Wide Implications

According to Sebastien Mabile, legal counsel for the NGO coalition, this case demonstrates the effectiveness of the Duty of Vigilance law in promoting constructive dialogue between businesses and civil society.

“This agreement showcases how the law can help businesses and NGOs work together to identify risks, prioritize solutions, and prevent environmental harm,” he stated.

A Model for Sustainable Business Practices

Danone’s commitment to plastic vigilance, transparency, and reuse innovation sets a precedent for companies worldwide. The company is taking a bold step toward environmental sustainability by integrating scientific insights, corporate responsibility, and stakeholder collaboration.

As Danone continues to refine its plastic reduction strategies, its success in balancing corporate interests with environmental priorities could inspire a global shift toward responsible packaging practices.

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