Youtube Video

Summary published at 9/13/2024

🌊 The sound of a can being opened triggers a response in our brain. Aluminum cans have evolved from simple beverage containers to symbols of progressive business practices and a brand's commitment to saving the planet.

💧 Aluminum cans are infinitely recyclable and have been around since the 1960s. Recently, they have been promoted as a solution to the plastic crisis, with celebrities like Jason Momoa and Jaden Smith launching canned water brands.

🚫 However, aluminum cans won't save the planet. They were largely ignored for decades until they were marketed as eco-friendly. The canned water trend is just one aspect of this narrative.

🥤 Major brands like Coca-Cola and Pepsi are also introducing canned water options, but they continue to use plastic packaging. Their interest lies in profit, not environmental concern.

♻️ While aluminum cans are often touted as recyclable, only about 68% of the aluminum used in North America is recycled. The production of aluminum cans generates twice as much carbon as plastic bottles.

🔍 Surprisingly, aluminum cans contain a thin plastic layer inside to prevent contact with the aluminum. This raises concerns about health risks associated with BPA, although companies claim it is safe.

💰 The cost of aluminum is 25-30% higher than plastic, making a complete shift to aluminum impractical. Additionally, there isn't enough aluminum to meet demand if all beverages switched to cans.

📉 Of the 80 billion aluminum cans consumed annually, only 65% are recycled, leading to 30 billion cans ending up in landfills each year.

🌍 Relying solely on aluminum cans as a solution is misguided. While they are better than plastic, refilling reusable bottles is a more sustainable option. The focus should be on reducing waste and promoting tap water.

🙏 Thank you for watching! For more content, remember to like and subscribe for weekly episodes.

Download our Chrome extension for Youtube summaries