Coca-Cola Enterprises & London 2012 Olympic Organising Committee

London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay Recycling Programme           

The Olympic Torch Relay travelled nationwide, creating a unique challenge: managing large volumes of packaging waste across multiple locations, high-footfall events, and temporary environments. The objective was to capture recyclable materials effectively and prevent them from going to landfill, while also engaging the public in sustainable behaviour.

Solution

PPS supported the delivery of a nationwide recycling programme for the Olympic Torch Relay, working in collaboration with Coca-Cola Enterprises and key partners.

The project included:

• Collection and recycling operations across the full torch relay route
• Deployment of recycling solutions in high-footfall event locations
• Servicing of accommodation sites and hotels supporting Olympic staff
• Ongoing logistics and operational support across a multi-location, mobile event
• Public engagement to encourage recycling behaviour at events

The programme formed part of a wider “Recycle on-the-Go” initiative designed to make recycling easy and accessible in public spaces.   supported a pilot programme using reverse vending machines (RVMs) to enable convenient plastic bottle recycling in out-of-home environments.

Key Insights

• Events provide a powerful opportunity for behaviour change, due to high footfall and visibility
• Accessible, well-placed bins drive participation in temporary environments
• End-to-end logistics are critical when operating across multiple locations
• Partnership working is essential for large-scale event success

Outcome

The Olympic Torch Relay programme demonstrated how large-scale, fast-moving events can successfully integrate recycling into their operations. The project not only diverted significant volumes of waste from landfill but also raised public awareness and encouraged more sustainable behaviour nationwide, leaving a positive environmental legacy.