Just in time for Global Recycling Day on the 18th of March, Robertson Winery is making history with the world’s first fully recyclable bag-in-box solution. Proudly developed and manufactured in South Africa, this pioneering innovation sets a new benchmark for eco-conscious practices in the global wine industry.
In South Africa nearly 30% of wine sales come from bag-in-box packaging, this format has long been favoured for its convenience, ability to keep wine fresh for longer, and reduced environmental impact compared to traditional glass bottles. While the cardboard exterior has been recyclable for some time, the inner plastic bag has posed a recycling challenge due to its composite materials.
Now, for the first time, all components of Robertson Winery’s bag-in-box are fully recyclable, meeting the highest international plastic recycling standards. “This is a major step forward for the wine industry, offering consumers a truly sustainable choice,”says Pieter Siebrits, chief executive officer at Robertson Winery. “We are very proud to be reducing environmental impact while fully supporting South African manufacturing.”
He says that the company is also the first commercial sparkling wine brand in SA to use a resealable, reusable, and recyclable sparkling wine closure: the ZORK. This closure allows consumers to reseal their sparkling wine, keeping it fresh while reducing waste. “As a fully recyclable alternative to traditional cork or foil closures, it aligns with Robertson Winery’s broader sustainability mission,” says Siebrits.
The ZORK closure, as well as fully recyclable Robertson Winery bag-in-box packaging is already available to consumers in South Africa.