Corona Extra makes good on its promise to clean up Chinese beaches

Corona Extra, a pale lager brand owned by AB InBev - the world's biggest brewer by production volume - announced that it has achieved its full-year sustainability pledge of collecting 145 metric tons of plastic waste from sea areas and beaches in China.

While plastic pollution has emerged as an increasingly severe global challenge with plastic waste becoming a key concern, Corona is committed to innovating ocean protection solutions. The brand had reached a collection of 155.42 tons, delivering the goal ahead of schedule and in greater quantity by Nov 1, according to a statement released by the company.

In the meantime, the brand joined hands with Living Fossil Studio, a ceramic designer and manufacturer, to launch "Corona living bin", a new initiative aimed at raising people's awareness about the growing issue of plastic pollution at beaches. Artists have been invited to craft waste bins with various kinds of plastic waste including plastic bottles, fishing nets and buoys and place them on beaches for subsequent waste collection.

The statement said that the launch signifies another innovative attempt by Corona at localized ocean protection actions, which will continue to support the sustainable development of the local community.

Marine garbage pollution has become increasingly serious in the world over recent years, among which plastic waste has become one of the focus due to its long retention time and difficult treatment. According to a 2021 report by the United Nations Environment Program, between 23 million tons and 37 million tons of plastic waste ends up in the oceans each year.

For residents, surfers and tourists, the significance of Corona living bin is not just about providing people with places to dump garbage, but, more importantly, about rebuilding the close ties between people, plastic waste and community from a unique aesthetic perspective, said Matt Che, chief marketing officer of Hong Kong-listed Budweiser Brewing Co APAC Ltd, a part of AB InBev.

"In addition to plastic waste reduction along the supply chain, we hope to continuously engage consumers through various marketing innovations," said Che.