PlasticBusters and The ESG Institute Join Forces to Tackle Plastic Pollution and Promote Circularity

We are proud to announce a new global collaboration between PlasticBusters and The ESG Institute (the-esg-institute.org) —a partnership built on shared values, common purpose, and an unwavering commitment to creating a cleaner, more sustainable planet. With volunteers active in over 100 countries, PlasticBusters is already making an enormous impact by mobilizing communities to fight plastic pollution on the ground. Now, with the support and expertise of The ESG Institute, we are scaling that impact to a new level—by embedding sustainability, ESG knowledge, and circular economy practices at the heart of everything we do.

Together, we recognize that the world is facing a plastic crisis of unprecedented scale. In 2023, global plastic production reached approximately 413.8 million metric tons, continuing its upward trajectory over the past decades. Alarmingly, less than 10% of this plastic was produced from recycled materials, with the vast majority derived from virgin fossil fuels. Each year, humanity generates over 350 million metric tons of plastic waste, and at least 1.7 million metric tons of it finds its way into our oceans—damaging ecosystems, threatening marine life, and ultimately entering the food chain.

But we believe change is possible. And not just through clean-ups—though they are vital—but through education, innovation, and system transformation. That’s why this partnership matters. Together, PlasticBusters and The ESG Institute are committed to helping individuals, communities, businesses, and governments transition away from linear, wasteful systems and toward a circular economy, where materials are reused, products are designed for sustainability, and environmental impact is minimized at every stage.

We’ve identified four key pillars where we’ll focus our joint efforts:

1. ESG and Sustainability Training
   We will offer discounted training in ESG and sustainability for PlasticBusters volunteers worldwide. We’re also co-developing specialized programs to support NGOs, businesses, and policymakers with practical guidance on reducing plastic pollution, implementing circular systems, and aligning with global reporting standards.

2. Joint Awareness Campaigns
   Through global, multilingual campaigns, we will raise awareness about plastic waste and promote real-world solutions. These campaigns will highlight everyday actions, amplify grassroots stories, and encourage bold shifts—away from single-use culture and toward smarter, circular choices.

3. Community Engagement Projects
   We are launching new initiatives to empower local communities—whether that’s organizing large-scale clean-ups, building zero-waste toolkits, or supporting neighbourhoods in developing plastic-free, circular living models. These will be practical, action-oriented, and inclusive.

4. Research and Policy Advocacy
   From publishing joint white papers to working with governments and business leaders, we’ll advocate for policies that support sustainable materials, regenerative design, and ESG transparency. Our mission is to turn science and data into action—by influencing how decisions are made at every level.

This partnership is not just symbolic—it’s strategic. It brings together the grassroots energy of a global volunteer movement and the technical, educational, and advisory strengths of a leading ESG organization.

We are incredibly excited about what lies ahead, and we invite everyone—citizens, companies, schools, governments—to be part of this journey.

To learn more or get involved, visit www.plasticbusters.org and www.the-esg-institute.org. Let’s build a world where plastic doesn’t pollute, where waste becomes opportunity, and where sustainability is not an option—but a shared responsibility.

About The ESG Institute 

The ESG Institute, leveraging a global network of over 500 experts, is a leading authority in integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into business strategies to drive meaningful change. With a focus on innovation and practicality, The ESG Institute provides a comprehensive suite of services, including ESG training, consulting, and certification programs. By equipping organizations with the knowledge and tools to meet evolving sustainability standards, The ESG Institute enables businesses to not only achieve compliance but also create long-term value. Its mission is to transform businesses into agents of positive change, fostering a more sustainable, equitable, and resilient global economy.

PlasticBusters is an award-wining registered charity with over 5,000 volunteers in more than 100 countries. Would you like to volunteer with us? Please visit our Get Involved site.