That Coca-Cola beverage in your hand? Whether it’s glass, plastic or aluminum, chances are the bottle or can you’re holding is fully recyclable. In the U.S. and around the world, Coca-Cola is working to close the loop by designing more resource-efficient packaging, supporting community recycling systems, and boosting use of renewable materials through innovation.

Coca-Cola Journey staff caught up with resident expert, Sarah Dearman, who leads sustainable packaging for Coca-Cola in the U.S., to learn more. Take a look:

What types of beverage packages do you find in the U.S.?

Most of our beverages are in aluminum cans, plastic bottles (polyethylene terephthalate plastic or PET for short) or glass bottles. Each package has its own benefit. For example, I love a plastic bottle when I’m on the go so I can easily put the cap back on and I don’t have to worry about it spilling. Cans are great for my fridge at home so I can stack them and have a variety of options easily accessible. It’s great to experience the nostalgia of a Coke in a glass bottle. There are also a few specialty packages like juice boxes – which my kids love – cartons and pouches.

Which ones are recyclable?

Nearly all – 99%– of our packages are fully recyclable. Aluminum cans, PET plastic bottles and glass bottles are accepted for recycling in most communities in the United States that offer recycling. Cartons and juice boxes are also now accepted in many places, as well. We are still working with the industry to find the best solution for pouches and other flexible packages.

Read EVEN MORE cool facts by going to the source of this article on Coca-Cola Journey:  Can I Recycle This? A Primer on Coca-Cola North America’s Commitment to Sustainable Packaging: The Coca-Cola Company