#PLASTICPOLLUTION

This week in Paris, Coca-Cola faced widespread criticism for its role in generating substantial plastic waste at the Olympics. As detailed in this article from The Guardian, Coca-Cola’s strategy involved transferring drinks from small plastic bottles into eco-cups. This process led to an overwhelming amount of plastic litter at the event. The French public and environmental activists were quick to point out this discrepancy, accusing the company of “greenwashing” — promoting environmental initiatives while failing to address their actual environmental impact.

Existing Solutions

Originally, the Paris Olympics were supposed to install soda fountains to reduce plastic waste, but the implementation fell short, leading to increased reliance on plastic bottles. This gap in sustainable practices at major events calls for robust solutions that can be integrated seamlessly.

Solutions do exist, and one of the goals of BE WTR is to provide a sustainable and premium water brand through tailor-made water solutions. In 2023, BE WTR and Sirha Food signed their first partnership, replacing single-use water bottles at events with sustainable water systems or locally bottled water. Those collaboration with top events like Sirha Lyon and Bocuse d’Or demonstrates that sustainable hydration can be achieved without compromising quality or convenience, just eliminating the need for plastic bottles and reducing transportation emissions.

Furthermore, BE WTR will contribute is a more significant way to the reduction of plastic waste by inaugurating the first bottling site in Paris this September,. This facility will supply hotels and restaurants of the capital with locally bottled water in reusable branded glass bottles. This initiative replaces single-use plastic bottles in guest rooms, conference rooms, and other areas, showcasing a practical example of how large-scale events can adopt environmentally friendly practices.

The news at the Paris 2024 Olympics serves as a critical reminder of the importance of aligning corporate actions with environmental commitments. As we move forward, it is crucial for leading events and corporations to implement workable and sustainable solutions. BE WTR is proud to be at the forefront of this movement, providing innovative water systems that enable a more sustainable world. Our solutions can serve as a model for large events, demonstrating how to minimize plastic waste and exhibit environmental stewardship.

For those wanting to know more about initiatives fighting greenwashing and soda’s influence, check out Kick Big Soda Out.

For more details on the Coca-Cola actuality at the Paris 2024 Olympics, read the full article on The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/article/2024/aug/07/greenwash-games-french-public-points-finger-at-coca-cola-over-olympics-plastic-waste