A comprehensive study published in the journal Science Advances has shed light on the staggering extent of plastic pollution attributable to a small number of corporations. The research, led by scientists at Dalhousie University in collaboration with international partners, analyzed plastic waste collected during audits in 84 countries over a five-year period. The findings reveal that over half of branded plastic waste can be traced back to just 56 companies.
Four brands emerge as the primary contributors to this pollution, with The Coca-Cola Company accounting for 11%, PepsiCo at 5%, Nestlé at 3%, and Danone at 2%. The study underscores the alarming global reach of these corporations and their significant impact on plastic waste accumulation.
The study also emphasizes the alarming rate at which plastic production has surged, doubling from 200 million tonnes in 2000 to 400 million tonnes in 2019. This surge has exacerbated the environmental crisis posed by plastic waste.
In response to the study’s findings, Coca-Cola stated its commitment to making all its packaging globally recyclable by 2025 and using at least 50% recycled material in its packaging by 2030. The company further aims to collect and recycle a bottle or can for each one it sells by 2030. The other top companies did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
The release of this study coincides with a summit in Ottawa, Canada, where representatives from 176 countries are gathering to discuss strategies for reducing plastic waste. The summit marks the fourth negotiating round ahead of a final session later this year in South Korea, where parties aim to sign a binding international treaty on plastic pollution.
Environmental activists and researchers emphasize the critical need for transparency and accountability in addressing the plastic waste crisis. Patricia Corcoran, a professor of Earth sciences at the University of Western Ontario, highlights the importance of identifying the major producers of plastic waste to raise awareness and drive corporate action.
The study recommends the establishment of an international, open-access database to track and report the production, packaging, and brands of plastic products. This database would facilitate greater transparency and accountability, enabling policymakers and the public to monitor the progress of companies in reducing their plastic footprint.
The Canadian government has taken a step towards this goal by announcing a new registry that will require companies to disclose details on their plastic production and disposal practices. This registry aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the plastic supply chain and its environmental impact.
