Target Setting & Mitigation

The Plastic Footprint Network's foundation is built upon the recognition that companies using plastic in their products and operations need to be empowered to address the plastic pollution crisis by rigorously assessing, measuring, improving, and transparently reporting their plastic footprints.

The methodology for assessing was released by PFN in November 2023, enabling companies to conduct a detailed accounting of plastic pollution resulting from their operations.

Success with measuring and improving a plastic footprint requires establishing a clear set of targets against which an organization can demonstrate their progress in mitigating the environmental impact of their plastic use. An effective target setting framework is now required the PFN team and advisory committee have united around a vision for bringing the framework forward.

At the Plastic Footprint Network, we're working towards a vision of creating a corporate plastic accountability framework that aligns with the UN Treaty on Plastic Pollution. We aim to bridge the gap between public and private sector efforts in the ongoing battle against plastic pollution.

Our vision encompasses the comprehensive protection of ecosystems, human health, climate change, and non-renewable resource consumption. It emphasizes transparency, scientific rigor, and actionability in corporate targets.

The PFN proposes that the Corporate Accountability Framework under development includes three steps: Reduce, Avoid, and Manage. The steps underpin the Plastic Footprint Networks ongoing focus and efforts around the creation of an effective Plastics Treaty.

While ideal metrics may not exist for all areas of protection, the framework encourages corporate actors to set targets based on existing science, with alignment to the coming UN Treaty goals.

Mitigation Strategy Pillars

To complete the Corporate Accountability Framework under development, the PFN is developing methodologies for translation, sector-specific reduction pathways, and additionality methodologies, with input from multiple stakeholders.

A vision for a corporate plastic accountability framework

Co-creating a vision: building blocks for developing plastic pollution target setting aligned to the UN Treaty on Plastic Pollution and mitigation actions led by best-in-class science.

This Vision Statement was developed by the PFN and its advisory committee:

PFN is thankful for the time and input of CDP in the development of the Vision Statement.

Help optimize the framework

Organizations interested in adding their voice to development of the target setting framework and/or demonstrating leadership as pilot users of the framework, are encouraged to get in touch.

Join the network

All individuals and organizations that are committed to using robust science and collaboration to create solutions to the plastic pollution crisis are invited to join the Plastic Footprint Network.