Coca-Cola, the US-based beverage giant, finds itself in the spotlight yet again for its substantial contribution to global pollution, coinciding with delays in the UK's efforts to hold corporations accountable for their environmental impact. The Surfers Against Sewage Brand Audit Report has revealed that Coca-Cola is responsible for nearly 20% of all branded pollution collected during organized clean-up efforts in the UK over the past year. This disheartening statistic persists despite the company's newly launched environmental initiatives aimed at addressing its ecological footprint.
McDonald's claimed the second spot on the list with 11% of retrieved items, surpassing PepsiCo. The list also features other major players including Mondelez International, Anheuser-Busch InBev, Tesco PLC, Haribo, Nestle, Mars Incorporated, Heineken Holding N.V., Carlsberg Group, and Red Bull GmbH. The report's findings are derived from nearly 500 cleanup operations carried out by over 4,000 volunteers over a year. The locations varied from coastlines and canalsides to urban streets and bridleways. In terms of pollution sources, the fishing industry was responsible for 11% of the collected items, rising to 16% when focusing solely on beach locations. Notably, the prevalence of rope increased by 5% compared to the previous year, positioning it as the third most abundant non-branded item, trailing only 'miscellaneous plastic' and cigarette butts. The audit also recorded over 130 items in the vape and e-cigarette category.
Izzy Ross, Campaigns Manager at Surfers Against Sewage, emphasized the alarming consistency of the culprits behind plastic pollution and stressed the need for accountability. Ross urged these major plastic polluters, referred to as the 'Dirty Dozen,' to adopt circular business models that would lead to reduced plastic usage and, consequently, diminished carbon footprints. The report resonates with Environment Journal's earlier coverage of the UK's struggle to establish clear and effective waste management policies. Specifically, the delay in the rollout of the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme garnered attention. Despite recent reassurances that there will be no delay, concerns raised by industries have prompted discussions. EPR fees are not expected to take effect until at least October 2025, despite calls from environmental groups for more rapid implementation. The recent missteps in Defra's consultation on the Deposit Return Scheme were also highlighted. Critics argue that the department disregarded its own advice and withheld cost details, rendering the consultation largely futile.
A CSR Initiative of
Designed and Executed by
Implemented by
Technology is a useful servant, but a dangerous master, it was rightly said. Electronic devices have grown into an inevitable part of our daily lives.
