Recovering Ocean-Bound Plastic in Thailand
![Community members trading plastic waste for income](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/65d72457f7b6d596a3fc68e1/667197945e3a588fe2496743_Plastic%20Bank%20-%20Thailand-min.webp)
Thailand was chosen due to its substantial plastic waste issues and the need to support local communities along its extensive coastlines. The country is a major contributor to ocean plastic pollution, and the initiative aims to address this by incentivising plastic collection. By providing essential goods and services in exchange for collected plastic, Plastic Bank helps to improve the quality of life for community members while promoting environmental sustainability.
![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/65d72457f7b6d596a3fc68e1/666c0e800efff3238ba22103_Plastic%20Bank%20Location-Thailand-min.webp)
Through our partnership with Plastic Bank, we collect plastic within 50 kilometres of ocean-bound areas. Our communities gather plastic waste from various sources, including beaches, riverbanks, and households, directly addressing ocean plastic pollution.
Together, we reveal value in plastic waste and improve lives. Members exchange plastic waste for bonuses at local Plastic Bank branches, enabling access to necessities like groceries, fuel, education, and healthcare. Our secure and traceable income sources empower vulnerable communities to overcome poverty.
Plastic Bank is a social enterprise focused on mitigating ocean plastic pollution while improving the socio-economic conditions of communities involved in plastic collection. By turning plastic waste into currency, Plastic Bank provides communities with a sustainable source of income and access to essential services.
In 2023, Plastic Bank expanded its operations to Thailand, a country that faces significant challenges with plastic waste management. The initiative in Thailand aims to empower local communities by providing various benefits. Collection members can exchange collected plastic for necessities such as groceries, healthcare services, and educational supplies. This not only helps reduce plastic pollution but also supports the financial stability and well-being of the local population.
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