I've come across a few notable developments recently that show how much the push for plastic alternatives has penetrated the decision-making level of major companies.
First, there's the case of SunChips. This company had introduced a 100% completely compostable bag for its chips only to backpedal following consumer complaints that it was too loud. At first I was concerned that SunChips was using this as a convenient excuse to renege on its commitment to more sustainable packaging, but they've come back with a quieter version which they achieved by re-engineering its adhesive.
Perhaps the most exciting prospect for bioplastics is unfolding as a result of competition between two of the world's largest beverage companies, PepsiCo and Coca Cola. For two years Coke has had a bottle on the market that incorporates plant materials into 30% of its content. Just this week, however, Pepsi announced that by next year it will release a bottle composed entirely of plant-based and renewable materials, including switchgrass, pine bark and corn husk.
That companies as large as these are undertaking such measures stands to set a standard for the whole industry. Already, as TechCrunch's GreenTech reports, the plastic for Coke's PlantBottle is being shared with Heinz. The vice president of the World Wildlife Fund, Jason Clay, theorizes that by implementing sustainable business practices, the world's top 100 companies can save society and environment from the worst effects of overconsumption, a contention he explains in this TED talk.
Way to go, PepsiCo.
First, there's the case of SunChips. This company had introduced a 100% completely compostable bag for its chips only to backpedal following consumer complaints that it was too loud. At first I was concerned that SunChips was using this as a convenient excuse to renege on its commitment to more sustainable packaging, but they've come back with a quieter version which they achieved by re-engineering its adhesive.
Perhaps the most exciting prospect for bioplastics is unfolding as a result of competition between two of the world's largest beverage companies, PepsiCo and Coca Cola. For two years Coke has had a bottle on the market that incorporates plant materials into 30% of its content. Just this week, however, Pepsi announced that by next year it will release a bottle composed entirely of plant-based and renewable materials, including switchgrass, pine bark and corn husk.
That companies as large as these are undertaking such measures stands to set a standard for the whole industry. Already, as TechCrunch's GreenTech reports, the plastic for Coke's PlantBottle is being shared with Heinz. The vice president of the World Wildlife Fund, Jason Clay, theorizes that by implementing sustainable business practices, the world's top 100 companies can save society and environment from the worst effects of overconsumption, a contention he explains in this TED talk.
Way to go, PepsiCo.
No comments:
Post a Comment