Business commits to beat plastic pollution

Celebrated each year on 5 June, this year’s United Nations (UN) World Environment Day brings the international community together in a commitment to reduce single-use plastic waste under the theme #BeatPlasticPollution.

Did you know that more than 300 million tons of plastic are produced every year, and that a staggering 10% of that ends up in the ocean? By continuing at this rate, there will be more plastic than fish in the oceans by 2050.

If we don't #BeatPlasticPollution, there will be more plastic than fish in the ocean by 2050! Businesses are taking key steps to fight pollution on #WorldEnvironmentDay. Share on X

With only 5% of plastics recycled effectively, lost material, clogged drains and polluted oceans cost the world economy up to US$120-160 billion each year. That’s why it is more important than ever for the private sector, governments and other stakeholders to work together to find solutions for effective, cost-efficient waste management.

Reducing plastic waste is not only good for the environment, it’s good for business.

As Erik Solheim, Head of Environment, wrote in a new report on plastic pollution: “Action can be painless and profitable – with huge gains for people and the planet that help avert the costly downstream costs of pollution. Plastic isn’t the problem. It’s what we do with it.”

Business has a responsibility to work with all stakeholders in the fight against plastic waste.

.@Billabong1973, @Dell, @4OceanBracelets and @Timberland are some of the companies taking action to protect the planet from plastic pollution! Share on X

Here are just five examples of business action in pursuit of the global Sustainable Development Goals to protect the planet from plastic pollution:

ICC, as the only private sector Observer to the UN General Assembly, works to promote sustainable economic growth and responsible business conduct, including maximising resource efficiency.

What’s more, our work starts at ICC global headquarters in Paris where we are reducing our own plastic waste by issuing reusable drinking bottles to staff. How is your company working to achieve the Global Goals?

Read more about our work here.