There is a growing role for the private sector in helping policymakers address issues of shared concern, such as climate change, water stewardship, recycling, and other sustainability issues.

Governments and Regulatory Organizations

We support solutions that are not only environmentally sustainable, but also economically sustainable. We oppose proposals that single out individual products or industries, such as bans on bottled water or sparkling beverage taxes. When these types of issues potentially affect us, we work hard to find constructive, equitable, and sustainable alternatives. We meet directly with officials and policymakers by working through industry associations such as the American Beverage Associations, Refreshments Canada, and the Union of European Beverages Associations. All such activity is subject to our Code of Business Conduct and is closely monitored.

 
Political Contributions
In the United States, political contributions may be made by our company and our Political Action Committee. This separate legal entity is funded by voluntary employee contributions. During 2008, approximately 53 percent of eligible U.S. employees chose to make contributions totaling US$435,813. Contributions are distributed in a non partisan manner and disclosed to the Federal Election Commission and relevant state agencies. In addition, our company provided US$40,000 in corporate contributions to political entities. In Canada, such contributions are made through our industry association, Refreshments Canada; in Europe, we do not make contributions to public officials.