Allegations of Deceptive Environmental Claims Leveled Against Coca-Cola and Nestle

Coca-Cola, Danone, and Nestle have been accused of making false claims regarding their plastic water bottles being "100% recycled." Several consumer bodies and environmental groups have filed a legal complaint against the companies with the European Commission, alleging that their claims are misleading. The complainants argue that the bottles are never entirely made from recycled materials. Coca-Cola and Danone have responded, with Coca-Cola stating that its packaging messages are backed by evidence and Danone asserting that it is investing in recycling efforts. Nestle has yet to comment on the matter. The complaint revolves around the companies' claims of supplying either 100% recycled or 100% recyclable single-use plastic water bottles. The consumer groups argue that these claims, especially when accompanied by green imagery or branding, are deceptive. They maintain that the bottles are never wholly made from recycled materials and that their recyclability depends on various factors, such as the availability of recycling infrastructure. The consumer groups emphasize that plastic water bottles are not recycled repeatedly to become new bottles in Europe. They state that a 100% recycling rate for bottles is technically not possible and that bottles made from recycled plastic can still harm the environment. They urge companies to avoid presenting recycling as a solution to the plastic crisis and instead focus on reducing plastic at the source. In response, Coca-Cola highlights its efforts to minimize plastic packaging and invest in collecting and recycling equivalent amounts. The company states that it only communicates verifiable messages on its packaging, transparently displaying any relevant qualifications for consumers to make informed choices. Danone expresses its commitment to packaging circularity, promising continued investment and collaboration with its partners to improve collection and recycling infrastructure.