Founder of Coca-Cola Bottlers Georgia, Temur Chkonia, says that Georgia’s waste management policy should focus less on banning plastic bottle sales in the food service sector and more on implementing extended producer responsibility, which he believes could form the basis for a new recycling industry in the country.
According to Chkonia, the company is already involved in collecting PET plastic from businesses and is preparing for further investments in recycling infrastructure. He says the goal is to turn plastic waste into economic value, create jobs, and potentially build several recycling plants in Georgia, describing it as a “new industry” with long-term economic potential.
He emphasizes that meaningful progress requires cooperation with the government and says ongoing consultations could lead to a practical solution beneficial for the state, consumers, and businesses. In his view, the focus should be on developing a structured system for collection and processing rather than imposing restrictions that could harm existing operations.
“I still think this is ultimately a decision for the Prime Minister, because I see no other way forward,” Chkonia said, adding that he hopes discussions will lead to a balanced outcome that allows both environmental goals and business development to move forward.
