The LIE of the Aluminum Can

Summary

The video script explores the resurgence of aluminum cans as a symbol of eco-friendliness in the beverage industry. It challenges the notion that aluminum cans are a silver bullet for environmental issues, highlighting that while they are recyclable, they still contribute to carbon emissions and rely on plastic liners. The script also critiques the marketing by celebrities and big brands that aluminum cans will save the planet, emphasizing that a shift to cans is not a complete solution and that refilling reusable bottles is a better alternative. It concludes by suggesting that the real issue lies in the commodification of water, a basic human right.

Takeaways

• 🔄 Aluminum cans are promoted as a sustainable alternative to plastic bottles due to their recyclability.
• 🌊 Celebrities like Jason Momoa and Jaden Smith have launched canned water brands to combat plastic pollution.
• 💡 The narrative of aluminum cans saving the planet is driven by the fact that they are not plastic, despite their own environmental costs.
• ♻️ While aluminum is infinitely recyclable, most cans in North America contain only about 68% recycled aluminum.
• 🚫 Despite the potential, 100% recycled aluminum cans have not been widely adopted by the beverage industry.
• ❌ The production of aluminum cans releases about twice as much carbon into the atmosphere as plastic bottles.
• 🚯 Aluminum cans are not entirely plastic-free; they have a thin plastic lining to prevent the drink from coming into contact with the metal.
• 💸 The cost of raw materials for aluminum cans is 25 to 30% higher than for plastic bottles, which could increase drink prices.
• 📈 A shift to aluminum would require a significant increase in production, potentially overwhelming current manufacturing capabilities.
• 🗑️ Recycling rates for aluminum cans are high, but not perfect, with billions still ending up in landfills each year.

Q & A

What is the significance of aluminum cans in the context of environmental conservation as portrayed in the video?

The video suggests that aluminum cans have been marketed as a symbol of progressive business practices and a brand's commitment to environmental sustainability, positioning them as a solution to plastic waste issues.

Why did celebrities like Jason Momoa and Jaden Smith start their own canned water companies?

Celebrities like Jason Momoa and Jaden Smith started their canned water companies as an alternative to plastic bottled water, aiming to reduce plastic waste and promote a more environmentally friendly option.

What is the composition percentage of recycled aluminum in beverage cans according to the aluminum Association?

According to the aluminum Association, beverage cans contain an average of about 68% recycled aluminum.

What was the innovation introduced by the company Nollis in 2013 regarding aluminum cans?

In 2013, Nollis introduced 'evercan' to the beverage market, which was promoted as being made with a minimum of 90% recycled aluminum.

Why did the beverage industry not widely adopt Nollis' 'evercan'?

The beverage industry did not widely adopt Nollis' 'evercan' because they did not want to rely on a single aluminum supplier and because they did not feel the need to, as the public already perceived aluminum cans as highly recyclable.

How does the carbon footprint of aluminum cans compare to that of plastic bottles?

The production of aluminum cans releases about twice as much carbon into the atmosphere as plastic bottles due to the energy-intensive process of mining and processing the aluminum.

What is the role of plastic in the construction of aluminum cans?

Aluminum cans contain a very thin plastic layer inside to prevent the beverage from coming into contact with the aluminum. Different manufacturers use various polymers or epoxy liners for this purpose.

What is the estimated percentage of aluminum beverage cans that are recycled annually?

It is estimated that about 65% of the 80 billion aluminum beverage cans consumed each year are recycled.

What is the main argument against relying solely on aluminum cans as a solution to plastic waste?

The main argument is that aluminum cans alone cannot solve the plastic waste problem due to their higher production costs, the energy required for production, and the fact that they still rely on a small amount of plastic in their construction.

What alternative solution is proposed in the video for reducing beverage-related waste?

The video suggests that refilling a reusable bottle is a better solution for reducing waste than using single-use containers, whether they are made of aluminum or plastic.