Statement: Plastic Materials Elimination List an important step in reduction of global plastic pollution

This week, the U.S. Plastics Pact published its list of “problematic and unnecessary” materials, which calls out items that are not reusable, recyclable, or compostable at scale. The list is a key benchmark in their “Roadmap to 2025” which outlines steps the group will take to achieve its 2025 goals.

“The Ocean Foundation congratulates the U.S. Plastics Pact in this key benchmark. The United States ranks as the world’s leading contributor of plastic waste. Recognition by Pact members about materials on the list such as cutlery, stirrers, and straws — as well as polystyrene, adhesives, and inks in labels that prevent recyclability — illustrate an understanding which the global community has been developing for years,” said Erica Nuñez, Program Officer, Plastics Initiative at The Ocean Foundation. 

“This list reflects a foundational element of our Redesigning Plastics Initiative where we advocate for the elimination of products that provide the least benefit to society. However, while crucial, lists are only one element in a global solution to the reduction of plastic pollution. Our Redesigning Plastics Initiative works with governments in the U.S. and internationally to develop legislative and policy language that reflects the principles of redesign. If materials are eventually designed for recyclability in the first place, we can shift the cumulative political will, philanthropic dollars, and R&D efforts to the beginning of the design process, at the production stage where they belong.”

ABOUT THE OCEAN FOUNDATION:

The Ocean Foundation (TOF)’s mission is to support, strengthen, and promote those organizations dedicated to reversing the trend of destruction of ocean environments around the world. TOF focuses on three main objectives: to serve donors, generate new ideas, and nurture on-the-ground implementers through facilitation of programs, fiscal sponsorship, grantmaking, research, advised funds, and capacity building for marine conservation.

FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES:

Jason Donofrio
External Relations Officer, The Ocean Foundation
(202) 318-3178
[email protected]