Los Angeles County has filed a lawsuit against Coca-Cola and PepsiCo, alleging they misled the public on the recyclability of plastic packaging, contributing to severe plastic pollution.
Susanne Rust reports for Los Angeles Times.
In short:
- LA County accuses Coca-Cola and PepsiCo of falsely promoting plastic as recyclable despite knowing most plastic waste ends up in landfills or waterways.
- The lawsuit seeks to stop the companies' alleged deceptive practices, asking for penalties and consumer restitution.
- Environmentalists support the suit, saying it holds companies accountable for contributing to widespread pollution affecting health and ecosystems.
Key quote:
“Coke and Pepsi need to stop the deception and take responsibility for the plastic pollution problems.”
— Lindsey P. Horvath, Los Angeles County Board Chair
Why this matters:
Plastic pollution is pervasive, with microplastics now detected in human organs and ecosystems globally. Addressing misleading claims about recyclability could push corporations to reduce their reliance on plastic, mitigating environmental and health risks.
Related: Coca-Cola and Pepsi urged by athletes to ditch plastic bottles
