The case has been refuted by the American Beverage Association. Credit: Radu Bercan via Shutterstock.

Los Angeles County (LA County) in the US has sued PepsiCo and Coca-Cola, alleging that they have significantly contributed to plastic pollution.  

County counsel Dawyn Harrison filed the lawsuit following complaints received from consumers across the state and the county. 

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Lodged in LA Superior Court, the lawsuit accuses the companies of polluting the county with single-use plastic bottles and misleading consumers about the recyclability of their products. 

The county asserts that despite claims of recyclability, the plastic used in the companies’ bottles cannot be effectively recycled to mitigate the environmental damage caused by their containers.  

In addition, the lawsuit claims that the greenhouse gas emissions and environmental impacts from the production and disposal of plastic can negatively impact county residents. 

It labels this as a public nuisance that requires rectification by the responsible parties. 

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LA County is seeking penalties of up to $2,500 per violation from PepsiCo and Coca-Cola for what it describes as “unfair and deceptive business practices”.  

LA County board chair Lindsey Horvath said: “Coke and Pepsi need to stop the deception and take responsibility for the plastic pollution problems your products are causing.” 

PepsiCo and Coca-Cola are a part of the American Beverage Association. 

American Beverage Association media and public affairs vice-president William Dermody said: “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. America’s beverage companies are proud of our leadership in California, and across the country, and will continue our partnership with the Golden State to get every bottle back.”