[GreenYes] Pepsi's recycling policy

["Paul Goettlich" <gottlich@infi.net>]

To: Elaine Palmer, Manager Corporate Information, Pepsi

Dear Ms Palmer,

I'd like to comment on the use of recycled content in Pepsi containers.

First, it should be noted that plastic is an enormous user of nonrenewable
resources and creates sizable environmental pollutants at all stages of its
lifecycle. There may be a plastic that is less expensive, but there is no
such thing as a more sustainable plastic. Some are significantly less
sustainable, such as PVC. But, in spite of this paradox, there is no plastic
that is more sustainable. To state it in another way, plastic should be
avoided at ALL costs. Glass containers should be the one and only standard.

EPAs recommendation of 'RRR' is not enough. Its puts the burden on the
consumer, when it is the industry--Pepsi in this case--that has chosen the
plastic. Please place the blame where it belongs; within the Pepsi
organization. Own up to the mistake of using plastic. Economics no longer
carry the weight they used to in this argument. At least not the myopic
short-term economics of industry's present leaders.

Precaution should enter into the economic equation--the health effects of
plastic in contact with food, specifically. Current regulations for
food-contact plastic are unrealistic in the sense that they are antiquated
and protect nothing but industry profits. This is not surprising,
considering that they were written mostly by industry.

Historically, the health effects have been externalized into the realm of
consumers and taxpayers. Their cost, in terms of cancers, and immune and
endocrine system disorders, far exceeds the value of the profits derived by
industry.

If these health effects have not be proven sufficiently for "conservative"
industry scientists, attorneys, executives and board members, then the
precautionary principal should be enough to set up some red flags in advance
of the litigation coming down the track in the not too distant future.

Finally, if Pepsi's use of plastic is nonnegotiable at this time, then
anything short of 100% recycled content in Pepsi's bottles is unacceptable.
Putting into carpeting, clothing, or anything else, is actually just finding
a way to store this toxic plastic waste until it needs to be discarded. Keep
it at home. Take responsibility for the problem that Pepsi has created.

I am available to discuss this subject with you.

Sincerely,
Paul

Paul Goettlich
Berkeley Plastics Task Force
PO Box 517
Berkeley  CA   94701
www.mindfully.org
gottlich@infi.net

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