The study found that in Europe "they're much more accommodating to pouches, and things that in America people really don't accept, because they understand the impact it has on the environment." And Americans have a relatively low recycling rate—45.1 percent—according to the study. Which makes it all the more important to use new materials which are lighter in weight. The lighter-weight bottles made out of new material will have much "greener" impact during production. Which helps the environment even if they're not recycled. The study goes on to stress that "the blend of environmental benefits with consumer-preferred packaging is what will drive sustainability forward."
Source: Bevindustry.com