This data is live from Alchemy

Our proprietary blockchain-secured platform

Data last verified: Thursday, 09/28/2023

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.

Social Plastic®

Written by Morla Angelia on 1 January 2023

FAQs about Social Plastic®

PET Plastics

What happens to plastic after it is collected at a Plastic Bank collection branch?
After collection, the plastic is recycled and processed into a new raw material called Social Plastic® feedstock which can be purchased by manufacturers and integrated into new products and packaging. Plastic that does not get licensed as Social Plastic®  feedstock is sold as commodity plastic to ensure ongoing recycling flows are maintained at all times. This completes the loop – creating a sustainable, circular economy for plastic. To learn more about how we empower a circular economy for plastic, see our About Page.

What makes Social Plastic® feedstock different from other recycled plastic?
All Social Plastic® feedstock is recycled plastic feedstock, but not all recycled plastic feedstock is Social Plastic® feedstock. The purchase of Social Plastic® feedstock helps coastal communities with additional income and life-improving benefits that help them pave a path out of poverty, thus creating environmental, social and economic impact.

Find a comparison chart linked here.

What types of Social Plastic® are available to manufacturers?
Currently, Social Plastic® feedstock is available in four types:

  • HDPE
  • LDPE
  • PET
  • PP