Ayodeji Babatunde with agency news
Coca-Cola is considering increasing the use of plastic bottles for its beverages in the US as aluminium can prices are expected to rise due to new import tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump. The company’s CEO, James Quincey, revealed.
The tariffs, which introduce a 25% tax on all imported steel and aluminium, could significantly impact the cost of canned food and beverages in the US. This policy shift has raised concerns about Coca-Cola’s sustainability goals, especially after the company recently adjusted its commitment to using recycled materials. Initially, the beverage giant aimed for 50% recycled content in its packaging by 2030, but it has now reduced that target to 35%-40% by 2035.
Environmental groups have criticized Coca-Cola for its plastic usage, naming it the “world’s biggest plastic polluter” for six years in a row. Addressing potential cost implications, Quincey explained, “If aluminium cans become more expensive, we have alternative packaging options like PET plastic bottles that can help us maintain affordability.”
In recent years, Coca-Cola had increased its use of aluminium cans as part of its environmental and marketing strategies. Although generally pricier, aluminium is significantly more recyclable over time compared to plastic. However, with the US relying on imports for nearly half of its aluminium supply, the new tariffs are expected to drive up costs further.
Trump had previously imposed steel and aluminium tariffs in 2018, but many manufacturers were granted exemptions. This time, however, he has stated that no such exceptions will be made for any country or product.
Adding to concerns over plastic pollution, Trump also signed an executive order rolling back a US government initiative to replace plastic straws with paper alternatives. This move overturned a policy introduced by former President Joe Biden, who had called plastic waste a “crisis.”
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