Philadelphia Files Lawsuit Against Companies for Deceiving Consumers About the Recyclability of their Plastic Products

Philadelphia has initiated legal action against Bimbo Bakeries and S. C. Johnson & Son for allegedly misleading consumers about the recyclability of their plastic products. The lawsuit asserts that both companies use recycling symbols on their packaging that imply their plastic bags can be recycled, despite evidence to the contrary. According to the city, these bags often contaminate the recycling stream, leading to increased operational costs and inefficiencies in waste management.

Mayor Cherelle L. Parker highlighted that these deceptive practices violate not only the law but also the public's trust. City Solicitor Renee Garcia emphasized that the companies manipulate consumers' good intentions, contributing to environmental pollution. Carlton Williams, Director of the Office of Clean and Green Initiatives, noted that mislabeling leads to a contaminated waste stream, affecting recycling efforts. The lawsuit aims to enforce changes in marketing practices to ensure transparency regarding recyclability.

Philadelphia seeks to protect its residents and promote sustainable shopping habits.