Plastic Offset Programs

The offsetting of carbon emissions and plastic pollution has gained prominence in the past few years. However, some experts argue that carbon offsetting has been greenwashed and call it an "industry con." They speculate that this is because carbon is very abstract and the ability to measure it, reduce it, or clean it up is often misunderstood. To combat this, the Plastic Credit Exchange (PCX) was created—a movement that works towards plastic neutrality.

The non-profit plastic offset program offers plastic "credits" that are described as "a verified plastic offer equal to one ton of plastic." The organization argues that this is a more tangible approach to offsetting environmental hazards when compared to carbon offsetting approaches. This is accomplished by eliminating plastic waste in nature, thereby helping brands offset their plastic footprint while contributing to a circular economy.

Image Credit: The Plastic Credit Exchange