Ford County, Kansas, has filed a class action lawsuit against petrochemical giants like ExxonMobil, accusing them of misleading the public about the recyclability of plastic. The county claims these companies, along with industry groups, falsely marketed plastic recycling as a viable solution to plastic waste, despite the U.S. recycling rate being under 10%. The lawsuit argues that these deceptive practices have contributed to a public nuisance of plastic waste.
Supported by reports from the Center for Climate Integrity, the lawsuit highlights that while plastic production is increasing, recycling efforts are insufficient. Staff attorney Chelsea Linsley criticized the industry’s promotion of “advanced recycling” as ineffective at addressing the growing plastic waste crisis.
In response, ExxonMobil defended its efforts, arguing the lawsuit doesn’t advance real solutions and pointing to their investments in recycling technologies. Industry groups like the American Chemistry Council also rejected the claims, urging Ford County to focus on improving its own recycling infrastructure. This lawsuit follows a similar action in California, with Ford County becoming the first U.S. county to challenge the plastic industry in this way.
This blog is intended to provide information to the general public and to practitioners about developments that may impact Oregon class actions.
