Beverage Industry Considers Legal Action Over Recycled PET Mandate
Leading beverage manufacturers are contemplating legal measures in response to a government directive mandating the use of packaging bottles composed of 30% recycled food-grade rigid plastic by April 1. Industry giants such as Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, Bisleri, and Parle Agro express concerns over the feasibility of this timeline, citing insufficient infrastructure and recycling capacity.
Industry Challenges with Recycled PET Mandate
The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change issued an order over two years ago, requiring category-1 packaging—encompassing food-grade products like soft drinks, water, and juices—to incorporate 30% recycled PET content. However, industry representatives argue that the current recycling infrastructure is inadequate to meet this requirement. A senior executive from a major beverage company stated, “We may have to take legal recourse and take anticipatory stay if the deadline is not extended.” The executive emphasized that while investments in capacity are underway, realizing these expansions will take an additional two to three years.
Insufficient Recycling Infrastructure
Experts highlight the scarcity of certified recycling facilities capable of producing food-grade recycled PET. A former senior official from the Ministry of Food Processing Industries noted that manufacturers and bottlers need to establish partnerships with recycling plants, but the number of such certified facilities is currently very limited. The official suggested that government incentives are necessary to encourage the establishment of new recycling plants to meet the mandated requirements.
Potential Legal Recourse
Facing the impending deadline, beverage companies are evaluating legal options to seek an extension. The industry contends that without sufficient infrastructure, complying with the mandate could lead to operational challenges and increased costs. An executive closely involved with the developments mentioned that, as of now, the April 1 deadline is unlikely to be relaxed, adding that manufacturers should have complied with the order given the over two-year timeline.
The situation underscores the tension between environmental policy objectives and the practical challenges industries face in adapting to new regulations. As the deadline approaches, the outcome of potential legal actions and government responses will significantly impact the beverage sector’s operations and its approach to sustainable packaging practices.
