India is stepping up its fight against plastic pollution with a new regulation that forces global beverage giants like Coca-Cola and PepsiCo to make significant changes to their packaging. The rule, which took effect on April 1, 2025, requires these companies to use bottles made of at least 30% recycled plastic, with that number set to increase incrementally each year. As the policy rolls out, beverage companies are scrambling to meet the new requirements — but the transition is far from easy.

A Bold Mandate to Tackle Plastic Waste
India’s government has taken a strong stance against the mounting plastic waste that clutters streets and pollutes waterways. The new rule is a key part of a broader effort to establish a circular economy, where plastic bottles are recycled and reused instead of ending up in landfills or oceans.

According to Nature News, the mandate requires beverage companies to meet the 30% recycled plastic threshold in their PET bottles, with the figure climbing by 10% annually. By the end of the decade, beverage packaging will need to be made of 60% recycled plastic, signaling a long-term shift toward more sustainable production practices.

Citește mai mult