Comments on: Coke to recycle… again

By: Liza

Liza — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 06:39:59 +0000

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By: Gayl Fittipaldo

Gayl Fittipaldo — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 21:41:23 +0000

I completely agree with you on the trust issue that may present itself because of Coke’s former promises. To “recycle and reuse 100 percent of the company’s PET bottles in the United States” is an impossible goal to achieve, but the goal itself being challenging will perhaps attract people to Coke’s efforts for the environment. However, by Coke backing out of the 1990 recycle plan claiming “high costs” (all the while having over $23 million in revenue) people took note of its lack of sincerity. Perhaps consumers now associate false pretenses with Coca-Cola. It’s like the old, worn-out saying, “don’t make promises you can’t keep.” Although beat to death and seemingly meaningless, it’s still true. By Coke making this valient effort to “recycle and reuse 100 percent of the company’s bottles,” people are going to expect some results this time and not another cop out claiming “high costs.” Coke needs to be prepared and ready to deliver and, if they fall short, I hope they are prepared for widespread consumer discontent … yet again.

By: Erin Fine

Erin Fine — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 17:38:20 +0000

Coke’s plan to recycle its bottles is a great idea, though it is extremely unrealistic that 100% of the bottles will be recycled. Having recycled plastic bottles can create more bottles, but also benches, I think recycling is the best idea. I do hope that Coke can keep its promise and recycle as many bottles as possible. This is such a great idea and plan that hopefully Coke will follow through with.

By: Bill Sledzik

Bill Sledzik — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 02:26:54 +0000

Your skepticism is well placed, but don’t be too hard on Coke if this doesn’t work. Problem with recycling is that it’s not always good for the bottom line. Aluminum cans are fine, since the material recovered reduces the cost of making additional cans. Recycled aluminum is far cheaper than metal refined from ores. Plastic, on the other hand, isn’t real profitable as recycled material. So with plastic you have to do it because it’s the right thing for society and the environment. Not all companies are so inclined.