USA – Los Angeles County has filed a lawsuit against PepsiCo and Coca-Cola, accusing the companies of contributing to plastic pollution and misleading consumers about the recyclability of their products.
The lawsuit, lodged by County Counsel Dawyn Harrison in LA Superior Court, asserts that despite recyclability claims, the plastic used in the companies’ bottles is not effectively recycled, thus failing to prevent environmental harm.
The county alleges that single-use plastic bottles from PepsiCo and Coca-Cola are a significant source of pollution, with the greenhouse gas emissions and waste from their production and disposal posing risks to residents.
LA County describes the impact as a public nuisance and seeks up to US$2,500 per violation, citing the companies’ “unfair and deceptive business practices.”
Chair of the LA County Board Lindsey Horvath urged accountability, stating, “Coke and Pepsi need to stop the deception and take responsibility for the plastic pollution problems your products are causing.”
Both companies are represented by the American Beverage Association (ABA), whose Vice President of Media and Public Affairs, William Dermody, defended their efforts, stating, “The allegation that our packaging is not and will not be recycled is simply not true.
“Driven by the California Redemption Value bottle return and investments by America’s beverage companies, California has one of the highest bottle recycling rates in the country—71% in 2023.
“Our bottles are designed to be recycled and remade, and can include up to 100% recycled plastic.”
This lawsuit follows the recent dismissal of a similar case against PepsiCo in New York. Last year, New York Attorney General Letitia James filed a lawsuit accusing PepsiCo and its Frito-Lay unit of plastic pollution in the Buffalo River.
Justice Emilio Colaiacovo of the New York State Supreme Court ruled in favour of PepsiCo, stating that while environmental stewardship is essential, holding the company liable for littering caused by consumer behaviour was unreasonable.
Colaiacovo argued, “The judicial system should not be burdened with predatory lawsuits that seek to impose punishment while searching for a crime.”
PepsiCo and Coca-Cola, through the ABA, maintain that their packaging initiatives align with California’s high recycling standards and that they will continue partnering with the state to improve recycling practices across the country.
Sign up to receive our email newsletters with the latest news updates and insights from Africa and the World HERE
