Ending plastic pollution means reimagining entire systems. At Pacific Environment, we support solutions aligned with the principles of zero waste — starting with systems design and scaling reuse, refill and zero-waste models that prioritize public health, the environment and local economies. We work with communities, businesses and governments to phase out single-use plastic, particularly problematic, unnecessary or harmful plastic and to drive the infrastructure that makes zero waste accessible and convenient.
Zero waste is a systems-based approach that aims to redesign how products are created, used and disposed of, with the goal of eliminating unnecessary waste altogether. Instead of relying on landfills or incinerators as a waste management solution, zero-waste strategies prioritize reducing waste at the source. Zero-waste systems use more effective waste diversion and management systems, such as improved reuse and repair systems and composting. We work to make zero waste more accessible by collaborating with local partners, supporting policy change and demonstrating scalable zero waste models such as reuse-refill systems.
In addition to strong policies on single-use plastic, we must address the root causes of waste generation. Our global economy has increasingly become reliant on a single use, throwaway approach to materials. We work to replace systems that depend on single-use plastic with nontoxic reuse and refill systems. From policy advocacy at all levels of government to scaling local zero-waste systems, we advance strategies that support waste prevention, not just waste management. Our work includes:
Find the latest on how we’re working alongside communities, businesses and policymakers to transition away from single use and create systems for thriving economies centered on zero-waste principles.
Creating successful reuse systems often starts at the local level and requires bold, creative collaboration to grow and scale. Join us as we work to create systems that are nontoxic, just and built to last.