Nespresso has introduced a range of paper-based home compostable capsules. The company notes that the product comes in response to consumer demand for compostable packaging, which is increasing.
"Since becoming a B Corp earlier this year, we're more committed than ever to widening the sustainable choices we offer our consumers,” said Guillaume Le Cunff, Nespresso CEO, in a statement. “We are excited to announce our first ever paper-based home compostable capsule, which will complement our offering of aluminum capsules that are both recyclable and made using 80 percent recycled aluminum. This is about yet another sustainable choice, without compromising on quality."
Several aspects of the capsule feature proprietary technology, including a biopolymer lining inside the capsule which protects the coffee against oxidization. The company also developed four new blends to complement the new capsules.
"We combined a high-precision paper pulp forming process with a biodegradable layer for protection against oxidation to preserve our coffee in transport, storage, and during the high-pressure extraction in our machines," said Julia Lauricella, head of Nestlé System Technology Center, in a statement.
Developed as an alternative for those who prefer and have access to compost, the compost-certified innovation will widen the sustainable choices already offered to Nespresso consumers through its aluminum capsules. In some countries, including France where Nespresso is piloting this range, these capsules are accepted in the public biowaste bin. An estimated 45 percent of French people now home compost one or more types of biowaste.
The new range will pilot initially in France and Switzerland on the Nespresso Original system. It expects to be further launched in several other European countries within a year.
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