Coca-Cola Co. Transitions to Plastic Bottles Made from Recycled MaterialCoca-Cola Co. Transitions to Plastic Bottles Made from Recycled Material

In an effort to tackle the environmental concerns of plastic waste, the Coca-Cola Co. announces the transition of a selection of plastic bottles across its portfolio to 100% recycled plastic (rPET) material. As part of a total portfolio approach, including a brand-new “sip-sized” bottle, these innovations will reduce the use of virgin plastic by more than 20% compared with 2018, a 10,000-metric-ton reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions annually.

The new 13.2-oz bottle is conveniently sized in a more shippable package while reducing the use of virgin plastics. The sip-sized bottle will be available at convenience retail locations in the Northeast, Florida, and California. Consumers can purchase the new bottle starting this month across the Coca-Cola trademark (Coke, Coke Zero Sugar, Diet Coke) and Fanta.

Coca-Cola also will launch new, clear packaging for Sprint, including a 100% rPET 13.2-oz bottle. The clear rPET bottle for Sprint will be available in the Northeast, Florida, and California. In an effort to optimize the package for recycling, the entire Sprint brand will transition to clear packaging by the end of 2022. Clear packaging makes it easier for bottles to be recycled and remade into new bottles.

This month, Coca-Cola will introduce 20-oz bottles made with 100% recycled material across the Coca-Cola trademark in California, New York, and Texas. Additionally, Dasani will launch 20-oz bottles made with 100% recycled material in New York, California, and Texas starting in March 2021. Shortly thereafter in April, 30% rPET 20-oz Dasini bottles will be available across the country.

Smartwater will introduce 20-oz bottles made with 100% recycled material in New York and California in July. A resealable and reusable 18-oz aluminum bottle will debut in California and Florida in February.

Coca-Cola said that its goal is to “inspire everyone to join us in reducing waste, so we’re encouraging people to recycle their bottles and cans with the largest on-package messaging effort ever by the Coca-Cola Co.” To get consumers involved in recycling, each 13.2-oz 100% rPET bottle will feature a “Recycle Me Again” message on the label.