Coca-Cola became the main cause of plastic pollution in the world

International research has shown that more than half of the branded plastic pollution found in the environment worldwide comes from 56 companies.

In a study published on Thursday, 12 international organizations including Australia’s national science agency, the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO), provided the first measure of responsibility for plastic pollution.

Research based on data from a five-year plastic waste monitoring program spanning eighty-four countries found that 56 companies were responsible for more than half of all branded plastic pollution, and 13 companies were responsible for more than one percent each.

The Coca-Cola Company is the largest producer of branded plastic pollution. It contributes 11 percent to the total global pollution. Next, PepsiCo had 5 percent, Nestlé and French food company Danone had 3 percent each. All 13 companies accounted for at least one percent of food, beverage or tobacco products.

Overall, the research found that the amount of branded and non-branded plastic pollution in the environment is split 50-50. Willis called for international standards to improve the branding of packaging to increase accountability and detect plastic pollution.