Net zero leaders: Decarbonization requires courage and collaboration – Beatriz Arribas on transforming Coca-Cola Europacific Partners
Beatriz Arribas, Sustainability Senior Manager at Coca-Cola Europacific Partners, shares her career journey where she's seen sustainability move from the periphery to the core of business strategy.
By Beatriz Arribas, Sustainability Senior Manager at Coca-Cola Europacific Partners | October 22, 2024
I have been working in Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability for over 15 years. I began my career in this field when it was considered a “nice-to-have” part of the business, mainly focused on philanthropy. Over the years, I have witnessed an incredible transformation, where sustainability has moved from the periphery to the core of business strategy. Today, it affects the entire company structure and requires a complete overhaul of traditional processes. Since 2018, I have had the opportunity to manage Coca-Cola Europacific Partners’ (CCEP) sustainability strategy in Spain and Portugal, including overseeing projects aligned with our goal of reaching Net Zero by 2040.
Our approach to sustainability includes a broad range of environmental and social initiatives. One of the key projects is MARES Circulares, which focuses on marine conservation and waste reduction by collecting and recycling marine litter. Another major initiative is Hostelería #PorElClima, which supports the hospitality sector (HORECA) in its transition to more sustainable and low-carbon practices. Additionally, our water replenishment projects aim to restore natural water resources, and social programs like GIRA Jóvenes y Mujeres empower young people and women through training and career opportunities.
Our sustainability efforts have yielded measurable results. Since 2017, the #PorElClima Hospitality Community has helped guide the hospitality sector in its green transition. At CCEP Spain, we have achieved a 25.7% reduction in our carbon footprint compared to 2019, thanks to targeted initiatives across our operations. A primary focus has been reducing Scope 3 emissions, which account for more than 92% of our total carbon footprint, through collaborative projects with suppliers to cut their emissions.
The evolution of my career mirrors the transformation of sustainability itself. What started as a department with limited influence has grown into a comprehensive approach that spans the entire company structure. Today, decarbonization is not just about reducing emissions; it involves transversality, where different business units collaborate closely to rethink existing processes. Transparency, training, and cross-functional integration are essential in making these efforts successful.
Personally, my commitment to climate action is rooted in empathy for the environment and the belief that we can—and must—change the way we operate to ensure future generations can live on a sustainable planet. Contributing even a small part to this effort keeps me motivated and fulfilled in my work.
The path to net zero is challenging, requiring significant investments in innovation and a willingness to take risks. However, it also presents an opportunity for companies to embrace new business models that drive progress. I believe that transparency is crucial in sustainability initiatives; businesses must be open about their challenges and achievements to foster trust and accelerate change.
For those beginning their sustainability journey, I would advise embracing the process because, in the long run, the benefits – such as energy efficiency –will pay off. At CCEP, our commitment to decarbonization has brought multiple business benefits, including cost savings, increased operational efficiency, greater employee engagement, and reputational gains.
Decarbonization may involve many hurdles, but it is a necessary path that can inspire and propel businesses towards a sustainable future. Everyone has a role to play, and I am excited to continue leading our efforts at CCEP to drive meaningful change.
