This data is live from Alchemy

Our proprietary blockchain-secured platform

Data last verified: Monday, 02/05/2024

1Ocean-bound plastic

Plastic Bank operates under the global standard defined by Jenna Jambeck. Ocean-bound plastic is defined as plastic that has not yet found its way into the ocean but is classified as "mismanaged waste". That is, plastic that is not being (formally) collected, is not likely to be collected, and is found within 50km of an ocean-bound waterway or coastal area.

2Community Members

Individuals within a recycling community who collect plastic and exchange it at a Plastic Bank collection branch for secure income and life-improving benefits.

3Equivalent Bottles Stopped

The amount of ocean-bound plastic collected and recycled in our recycling communities converted into bottles. Conversion rate is 50 bottles per kg (the average weight of a 500mL bottle is ~20g)

4Recycling Communities

Community of plastic collectors living within 50 kilometres of ocean-bound waterways involved in plastic collection and its exchange at Plastic Bank collection points.

Alchemy™

Alchemy is the blockchain platform that powers the Plastic Bank app. It enables fully traceable recycling processes, secures income for recycling community members and tailors impact reports for our stewards.

Sustania (COP 21)

Written by Morla Angelia on 18 March 2015

Sustania Community Award • 2017

The Sustainia Awards are awarded annually to “a solution, technology or project with a significant potential to help build a more sustainable future.”

Plastic Bank was selected from among 10 finalists at an award ceremony in Paris on December 6th, 2017 during the COP21 Conference. Each year a group of 25 experts from 18 international research organizations create a short list of 100 innovative solutions from every corner of the globe that are already creating a more sustainable future. 

From these 10 finalists are selected. The prestigious award recognizes Plastic Bank’s triple impact on local communities of improving the environment, improving livelihoods, and providing economic inclusion.