Nestlé Poland Sued for Misleading Recycling Claims on Bottled Water

On September 17, 2025, the environmental organization ClientEarth filed a lawsuit against Nestlé Poland in the Regional Court in Warsaw. The case accuses the company of misleading consumers through sustainability claims on its Nałęczowianka bottled water packaging.

ClientEarth argues that slogans such as "I am 100% made of recycled PET plastic" and "I am recyclable" create a false impression about the environmental impact of single-use plastic. The organization contends these claims mislead consumers into believing the bottles are fully recyclable and environmentally friendly.

Despite prior negotiations, the parties failed to reach an agreement, prompting the legal action. The lawsuit highlights broader concerns about plastic waste and recycling efficacy. Globally, only an estimated 9% of plastic is recycled, while in Poland, data shows that just 40.7% of plastic waste intended for recycling is actually processed.

This case underscores the importance of transparency in environmental claims on packaging. The outcome may influence how companies communicate sustainability efforts and could lead to stricter regulations regarding environmental marketing. As consumer awareness of environmental issues grows, businesses may face increased scrutiny over their packaging practices and claims.