TORONTO, Aug. 18 /CNW/ - The Canadian refreshment industry believes the
decision by the City of London to ban the sale of bottled water on city
property is a step backwards for recycling efforts.
"The City had an opportunity to expand recycling outside the home,
something other municipal leaders are doing, but instead it ignored the facts
and decided to target a healthy consumer choice," said Justin Sherwood,
President of Refreshments Canada. "This is a move that will cost taxpayers
more and do less for the environment."
Consumers appreciate the convenience and choice of bottled water. It's a
healthy, practical hydration option, especially when tap water is not always
available.The fact is:
- Plastic water bottles are 100% recyclable and are one of the most
recycled consumer products in Canada.
- Plastic beverage containers (of which water bottles are a part) make
up 1/5th of one percent or .02% of all waste produced in Ontario.
- Plastic beverage containers are in turn recycled into other consumer
such as fleece jackets and vests.
- In London, PET plastic beverage containers are recycled at a rate of
60% while some cities such as Hamilton, for example, recycle at a
rate of 91%."For over 20 years Ontarians have been encouraged to recycle as the best
way to protect the environment and preserve resources for future generations.
London residents will look back on this as a real missed opportunity to do
something positive for the environment."
Refreshments Canada is the national trade association representing the
broad spectrum of brands and companies that manufacture and distribute the
majority of non-alcoholic beverages consumed in Canada.
For further information: Danna O'Brien, Refreshments Canada, (416)
500-0699
