PepsiCo Faces Lawsuit: New York State Accuses Company of Contributing to Plastic Pollution
New York Attorney General Letitia James has initiated legal action against PepsiCo Inc., alleging that the company is harming the environment and posing risks to public health.
According to the lawsuit, plastic pollution in Buffalo River is purportedly contaminating the water and adversely affecting wildlife.
A survey conducted at 13 sites along the Buffalo River revealed that PepsiCo’s single-use plastic packaging accounted for over 17% of the total waste collected, making it the most significant contributor.
“No company, regardless of its size, should neglect its responsibility to prevent environmental damage and protect public health. Every New Yorker deserves access to clean water, yet PepsiCo’s irresponsible packaging and marketing are jeopardizing Buffalo’s water supply, environment, and public health,” stated New York Attorney General Letitia James.
PepsiCo, headquartered in New York, holds the position of the second-largest food company globally. The company produces and packages more than 85 beverage brands and 25 snack food brands, primarily distributed in single-use plastic containers.
New York Senator Andrew Gournades commented on the situation, saying, “PepsiCo has portrayed itself as an environmentally conscious company in its advertising.
However, according to the allegations in the Attorney General’s lawsuit, the reality is quite different. Despite claiming to be reducing plastic usage, the company has, as per the Attorney General, increased it. Companies participating in this marketplace have a responsibility to ensure that their products do not cause harm to people.”
Attorney General James is urging PepsiCo to cease selling or distributing any product in the Buffalo region without providing consumers with warnings about the potential health and environmental risks associated with its packaging.
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