Since 1990 the weight of packaging used for carbinated beverages has dropped by half, in spite of a 24 percent increase in carbonated beverages consumed through 2003.

Carbonated beverage packaging fell from 28 pounds per capita in 1990 to 14 pounds in 2003.

Carbonated beverage containers continue to be the most recycled consumer product package in the United States, with 44 percent of the containers recycled in 2003.

In addition to waste prevention efforts like these, both nationally and in Pennsylvania, the beverage industry has supported recycling and anti-litter efforts.

This year the American Beverage Association is a principal sponsor of the “Recycle It Now” campaign, a multi-faceted attempt to renew public interest in recycling.

In Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania Soft Drink Association has been a significant supporter of recycling initiatives, including the extension of the $2 recycling fee, the Great PA Cleanup and is a founding member of the Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful organization.

1/14/2005