What Is the Coca-Cola PlantBottle?

As plastic materials continue piling up in the earth’s vast landfills, more and more companies are researching innovative ways to package their products using renewable sources – thus reducing the production and disposal of virgin plastic and contributing to a cleaner, healthier environment.

Plastic packaging takes a big step forward with the introduction of Coca-Cola’s PlantBottle™, a recyclable PET package that is made with up to 30 percent plant-based material.

The Materials

Unlike traditional PET bottles, which are made with 100 percent virgin plastic, the PlantBottle uses PET plastic that is combined with up to 30 percent of plant-based material made from sugar cane juice and/or molasses. While the material is not biodegradable or compostable, it is 100 percent recyclable, helping to reduce the cost and environmental harm caused by the production of virgin plastic.

The Benefits

Traditional PET is a petroleum-based material. Though the material makes for extremely strong, versatile packaging, the plastic is also harmful to the environment both during production (through carbon emissions) and after disposal (by contributing to plastic waste). With approximately one-third of each PlantBottle replaced with plant-sourced material, each bottle helps to reduce the amount of harmful plastic that is produced.

The Future

As the first generation of PET plastic bottles made partially from plant-based material, the PlantBottle is just the beginning for Coca-Cola’s sustainability efforts. Eventually, the company hopes to develop and distribute its beverages in plastic bottles made from 100 percent plant waste material, eliminating the need for virgin plastic altogether.

Heritage Paper is also committed to developing innovating packaging solutions for a greener, safer and more sustainable future. Contact us today to learn about our sustainable packaging products, including 100 percent recycled molded fiber shippers and corrugated cardboard containers.

For more information on Coca-Cola’s PlantBottle, visit the Coca-Cola website.