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Coca-Cola’s Plastic Use to Surpass 9.1 Billion Pounds by 2030
A recent report by nonprofit Oceana has revealed that Coca-Cola’s annual plastic use is projected to exceed 9.1 billion pounds by 2030. This represents a significant 40% increase from 2018 and a 20% increase from its most recent plastic use in 2023.
The report suggests that if Coca-Cola were to increase its utilization of reusable packaging to 26.4% by 2030, it could effectively reduce its overall plastic consumption.
Despite previous efforts to promote reusable plastic in the past decade, Coca-Cola has shifted its focus to new packaging goals. In December, the company adjusted its target to increase reusable packaging to 25% of products sold.
Environmental Concerns and New Sustainability Goals
Coca-Cola has faced criticism from environmental groups for its packaging practices, particularly following changes to its sustainability goals in 2024.
The company’s new goals do not prioritize reusable packaging, although it has expressed intentions to invest in refillable packaging where feasible. Coca-Cola aims to increase the recycled content in its primary packaging (plastic, glass, and aluminum) to 35% to 40% by 2035.
According to data from the Ellen Macarthur Foundation, only 23% of Coca-Cola’s plastic packaging was reusable in 2023.
Oceana’s report has called on Coca-Cola’s investors to push for the adoption of reusable packaging in place of single-use plastic bottles. The nonprofit referenced a study published in Science that identified Coca-Cola as a major contributor to plastic pollution.
In response, a Coca-Cola spokesperson emphasized the company’s commitment to increasing recycled materials in packaging and supporting recycling infrastructure policies.
CEO James Quincey also warned of a potential increase in plastic usage due to tariffs imposed on aluminum, which could impact the company’s packaging decisions.
Industry Comparison and Sustainability Challenges
While Coca-Cola faces sustainability challenges, its competitor PepsiCo has also encountered difficulties in meeting its 2025 goal of making all packaging recyclable, compostable, biodegradable, or reusable.
It is evident that both beverage giants are navigating complex sustainability issues and striving to balance environmental concerns with operational realities.
Editor’s note: This article has been updated with comments from Coca-Cola.