Los Angeles County Sues Coca-Cola and PepsiCo Over Plastic Pollution and Misleading Recyclability Claims

Los Angeles County has filed a lawsuit against Coca-Cola and PepsiCo, accusing the companies of misleading the public about the recyclability of their plastic beverage containers, thereby contributing to plastic pollution. The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles Superior Court, claims that both companies have falsely advertised their plastic bottles as recyclable, even though most plastic containers end up in landfills or as litter. The county alleges that these practices have led to significant environmental and public health issues.

Los Angeles County Board Chair Lindsey P. Horvath criticized the companies' actions, stating, "Coke and Pepsi need to stop the deception and take responsibility for the plastic pollution problems your products are causing." Coca-Cola and PepsiCo are responsible for the majority of beverage sales worldwide, and have been ranked as the top global plastic polluters for five consecutive years.

The lawsuit highlights that plastic bottles do not biodegrade and instead break down into microplastics, which are now found in the environment, wildlife, and humans, posing serious risks. The county claims that Coca-Cola's promise to create a "circular economy" for their bottles and PepsiCo's claims about recyclability have misled consumers into believing their products are environmentally responsible.

County Counsel Dawyn R. Harrison emphasized, “The goal of this lawsuit is to stop the unfair and illegal conduct, to address the marketing practices that deceive consumers, and to force these businesses to change their practices.”

The county is seeking injunctive relief, restitution for consumers, and civil penalties up to $2,500 per violation. This lawsuit marks a continued effort to hold companies accountable for their role in plastic pollution and environmental degradation.