Distribution and Environmental Concerns: The Beverage Container Problem

Abstract

The growth of one‐way distribution systems and throw‐away packaging has contributed to the world's excess consumption of resources and energy and to the increased generation of solid waste. The state of Oregon has demonstrated that costs and wastes in the area of beverage distribution and packaging can be reduced substantially even in the throw‐away oriented United States. This article reviews the contribution of beverage container packaging to the overall problems of resource usage, and waste management, and presents empirical data on Oregon's experience. Finally, the article considers the implications of mandatory beverage container deposits for decisions concerning manufacturing location and physical distribution.

Citation

Gudger, C.M. and Bailes, J.C. (1974), "Distribution and Environmental Concerns: The Beverage Container Problem", International Journal of Physical Distribution, Vol. 5 No. 1, pp. 49-61. https://doi.org/10.1108/eb014331