Out of 187,000 pieces of plastic found on the beaches, more than 65% were products of Coca-Cola, Pepsi and Nestle (Source: NDTV).
They belong to 10 companies that control almost every large food and beverage brand in the world: Unilever, P&G, Mondelēz, Nestlé, Coca-Cola, Pepsi, Danone, Mars, Associated British Foods, Kellogg's and General Mills.
10 Brands that Rule the Food and Beverage Industry (Source: Oxfam)
What are these companies doing to make a difference?
Well, not much. Because they are corporations. They are listed on the stock market and their sole purpose of existence is to increase shareholder value. Shareholder value means: "Make the guys that own our stocks richer!"
How do they do that?
Cut down on cost, source cheaper materials, make production more efficient and use ads "you need our product to feel sexy and good".
##That comes with a price.
We all heard about the deforestation of rain forest, privatization of water, food scandals, tons of single use plastic entering our oceans and dubios advertisement. Or do you really thing Christiano Ronaldo drinks a coke before a soccer match? Hell no!
Yet these companies will never change to make the world a better place. It is upon us, the consumers and stock owners, to do something about it.
Here are five simple how I try to make a difference!
I refuse to buy any stocks from these companies. Instead I invest in ethical operating businesses, in renewable energy, cyber security, automation, robotics and bio tech. And crypto :)
I question every purchase of packaged food. Packaged food = most likely one large corporation. It took time to change my behavior, but I rather cook myself or buy from a local shop.
I do the "treehugger approach" and try to buy locally, organically as well as in the right season.
I share stuff like this, even if that is annoying my friends, family and followers! Sorry guys.
I do 365 beach cleanups for one year. Yes, I clean up other people's waste and I like it. If you can, just grab five items of plastic every time you go to the beach. I am sure you will find something.
Bonus: When you find a Coke bottle or Doritos package washed up on the beach, send it to the address mentioned on the back! They will love you!
Please let me know: What are your ways of making a difference?