The Toronto Zoo in Canada has expanded its reusable packaging initiative in a bid to limit the environmental impact of its 1.3 million annual visitors.
The zoo’s new programme is in partnership with Coca-Cola, its food service provider Compass Group Canada, and reusable packaging company Friendlier.
“At Friendlier, our mission is to deliver scalable, sustainable solutions that align with the evolving needs of both consumers and organizations,” said Kayli Smith, co-founder and CEO of Friendlier.
“This collaboration with the Toronto Zoo, Coca-Cola, and Compass Group Canada represents a strategic step forward in driving measurable impact and advancing our shared commitment to reducing single-use waste.”
So far this year, more than 15,000 containers have been reused at the zoo as part of the original project with Friendlier.
As well as meals, guests can now enjoy Coca-Cola beverages in reusable cups to support the zoo’s reduction of single-use waste.
The enhanced initiative is available at select dining locations in the Toronto Zoo, including Africa Restaurant, Simba Safari Lodge, and Caribou Café.
15,000 containers reused at zoo this year
Guests buying meals and fountain drinks can pay a refundable deposit, then reclaim it via the Friendler platform or donate it to the Toronto Zoo’s wildlife conservation efforts.
Used containers and cups are collected from designated return bins, professionally sanitised, and then recirculated.
“Our vision at your Toronto Zoo is a world where people, wildlife and wild spaces thrive, and sustainability at your zoo is a key factor as we work towards our goal of becoming a net-zero organization,” said Dolf DeJong, CEO of the Toronto Zoo.
“Through this collaboration with Coca-Cola, Compass Group Canada, and Friendlier, we’re proud to offer a simple, impactful way for guests to reduce waste while supporting wildlife conservation.”
The Toronto Zoo’s reusable packaging project is forecast to divert more than 120,000 cups from landfill based on prior-year sales.
“Expanding the reusable packaging program with our valued partners demonstrates our collective commitment to environmental stewardship,” said Jennifer Lambert, director of sustainability at Compass Group Canada.
Dolf DeJong was recently confirmed as one of the judges for the 2025 blooloop Innovation Awards.
Images courtesy of Toronto Zoo / Friendlier
