Coca-Cola has partnered with Birmingham 2022 for the Commonwealth Games ©Getty Images

Drinks giant Coca-Cola has been approved as the official soft drinks provider for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, as confirmed by the Organising Committee for the event.

This will be facilitated by Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) GB, the largest independent bottler of the drink globally.

CCEP is to supply Coca-Cola Zero Sugar to spectators, as well as other products and claims to be supporting Birmingham 2022 to become the first carbon-neutral Commonwealth Games.

The Coca-Cola Company has put an aim on having net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, which is another 28 years away.

All bottles sold at the venues are to be 100 per cent recyclable and made from 100 per cent recycled plastic.

CCEP is to work with Birmingham 2022's waste management and recycling providers to ensure plastics are recycled.

It also says it will "use low carbon options transport where possible", such as electric vehicles to reduce carbon footprint.

CCEP aims to reduce its emissions by 30 per cent by 2030 and go net-zero by 2040.

Birmingham is to hold the 2022 Commonwealth Games ©Getty Images
Birmingham is to hold the 2022 Commonwealth Games ©Getty Images

"Birmingham 2022 is an inclusive celebration, and we’re proud to bring our much-loved drinks to Birmingham for everyone to enjoy together in a sustainable way," said Sam Jones, head of climate and sustainability at CCEP GB.

"It's a privilege to be collaborating with Birmingham 2022 and other participating partners, to deliver a Games which supports long-term sustainable behaviour change and creates a lasting legacy for local communities. 

"Stats show that only 47 per cent of people know you can recycle a plastic bottle, and we hope that by engaging people through sport we can create a powerful learning opportunity.

"Sustainability sits right at the heart of our business strategy, and the values of our dedicated This is Forward action plan align closely with those underpinning the Games. 

"Birmingham 2022 offers a real opportunity to show what can be achieved when we all work together towards one goal, and we’re honoured to be playing a part in it."

CCEP is also working with the charity the Canal & River Trust on a project to improve the sustainability of canals as a transport method during the Games.

The Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games are scheduled to take place from July 28 to August 8.