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A promise for a better planet
Introduced ‘recycled PET’ containers first in industry
McDonald's Korea offers 100% recycled PET (r-PET) cups and lids for Sundae orders, starting in February 2024. This is a safe container that meets the standards of the Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, as it is made from transparent PET bottles that are collected, sorted, and processed in Korea. Approximately two and a half of 500ml transparent PET bottles are used for one set of Sundae ice cream cups and lids. Recycled PET helps reduce carbon emissions by approximately 59% compared to new plastic. In addition, we plan to expand the use of r-PET not only for Sundae ice cream cups but also for take-out drinks and coffee cups, aiming to reduce approximately 538 tons annually.
Furthermore, we expect to reduce 141 tons of plastic annually by introducing the eco-friendly 'bio-wax wrap' for the first time in the industry, starting in December 2024. McDonald's Korea is committed to the goal of converting all packaging in our stores to 100% recyclable and renewable materials.
McDonald's uniform that considered resource circulation
As part of its commitment to resource circulation, McDonald's Korea introduced the 'PET Recycling Outerwear' last year. The 'PET Recycling Outerwear' uses recycled disposable waste plastic collected from stores as filling material. It is not only a example of 'eco-friendly business' through resource circulation but also a thoughtful initiative for restaurant staff, offering warmth and comfort. Additionally, in 2023, when replacing store uniforms, McDonald's upcycled the discarded uniforms into 'McTrophy' plaques for internal events, creating a new example of upcycling that captures both the passion and memories of employees.
Turning discarded coffee grounds into eco-friendly construction materials
Since 2022, McDonald's has been installing safety railings made from eco-friendly synthetic wood containing 20% of coffee grounds discarded from stores in new stores. This wood is not only more durable than conventional wood, but also 100% recyclable, making it a recognized eco-friendly construction material.
Continuous efforts for the earth and farms
McDonald's Korea recycles waste soil discarded after tomato cultivation, supplying 26 tons of compost to lettuce farmers, and practicing resource circulation by using lettuce harvested from the farms in the menu. It aims to establish a virtuous cycle system for a sustainable farming community by launching a fund to expand support for farmers in June 2023.
