Griffith Foods: Environmental Classroom Made From Plastic Waste in Colombia

In 2023, we proudly delivered “Laboratorio de los Sueños,” an innovative environmental classroom at the Isidoro School in El Rosario de Marinilla, built entirely from recycled plastic waste. This initiative, marking our fourth iteration of the project and second classroom delivered, serves move than 40 students, providing a sustainable and dynamic learning environment.

In collaboration with the “Planeta Verde” cooperative and “Botellas de Amor” foundation, we collected 300 tons of recyclable plastic waste and transformed much of it into the classroom building and its furnishings. Additionally, we supplied 47 school kits and equipped a comprehensive library, reinforcing our commitment to educational enhancement through sustainable practices.

“We’re proud to enhance El Rosario de Marinilla’s learning spaces, reinforcing our comprehensive approach that merges environmental, economic, and social contributions to nourish lives,” said Zayda Martínez, general manager of Griffith Foods for the Andean Region.

This work is a result of an internal program Griffith Foods Colombia created to encourage proper waste management in the company called the ‘Súmate’ initiative. The initiative seeks to promote a culture of recycling at Griffith Foods facilities and for our employees at home. Since its beginning in 2019, a total of 600 tons of waste have been collected and the materials are processed with partners before being transformed into plastic wood. The plastic wood is used to make useful products for educational centers and schools (such as classrooms, desks or others).

Our Sustainability Journey 
At Griffith Foods, we are committed to driving positive impact through a regenerative mindset. Sustainability is connected to everything we do as a business, and by 2030, we are dedicated to significantly improving the future with a singular sustainable business strategy that we call our 2030 Aspirations. To learn more about Griffith Foods and its current sustainability efforts, visit them online and download the 2023 Sustainability Report. 

About Griffith Foods 
At Griffith Foods, our purpose defines who we are, what we do, and why we exist, highlighting what makes us distinct and authentic in the marketplace. We help our partners meet the evolving needs and desires of consumers in ways that respect and sustain the planet. Our care and creativity mean we’ll find the right mix of global reach and local impact to serve the earth and nourish all of us who call it home.

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