How These 4 Big Brands are Navigating the Wave of Sustainability with Ocean Bound Plastic
Muhammad Imam Taufik • Jan 17, 2024
Welcome back, Qualizer! It's great to have you with us for another insightful conversation about plastic pollution. We all know it has become a rallying cry for companies worldwide. But beyond mere awareness campaigns, big brands like HP, Dell, LVMH, and Mattel are taking concrete steps to combat this crisis by incorporating ocean bound plastic into their products. In this article, we'll delve into how these brands are contributing to the preservation of marine life and explore their success stories in creating sustainable products for a healthier future for marine life and generations to come.
HP
HP is one of the first companies to use ocean bound plastic in its products and packaging, such as laptops, monitors, and ink cartridges. The global technology giant has sourced more than 1 million pounds of ocean bound plastic, equivalent to more than 35 million plastic bottles, from its supply chain in Haiti and other countries. HP also supports local communities by creating income opportunities and improving education and health.
The company has also utilized over 716,000 pounds of ocean-bound plastic in its products since 2016, preventing the equivalent of approximately 25 million plastic bottles from entering oceans. This initiative not only reduces the demand for virgin plastic but also contributes to the overall health of marine ecosystems.
Dell
Dell Technologies is another major player in the tech industry that using ocean bound plastic in its products, such as the Latitude 5000 series laptops, which have lids made from 71% recyclable and renewable materials, including tree-based bioplastic, reclaimed carbon fiber, and post-consumer recycled plastic. The laptop fan housing also contains 28% recycled ocean bound plastic6. Dell is a founding member of NextWave Plastics, a consortium of companies working to create a global network of ocean bound plastic supply chains. Dell has diverted the equivalent of 2.27 billion water bottles from entering the ocean since 2017.
Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton (LVMH)
Stepping into the world of luxury, LVMH, the parent company of iconic brands like Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior Couture, and GIVENCHY has committed to using 100% recycled or bio-sourced plastic in its packaging by 2025. Furthermore, their LIFE 360 program focuses on eliminating fossil-based virgin plastic from packaging by 2026. In 2022 alone, LVMH processed around 3,144 metric tons of waste, including plastics.
LVMH has also partnered with Prevented Ocean Plastic, to make their first environmentally friendly wine. It is a 2021 vintage rosé from Château Galoupet, one of only 18 Cru Classé estates in Provence. The bottle is entirely made of recycled Prevented Ocean Plastic and can be recycled again.
Mattel
Mattel, Inc. is a toy company that produces popular brands such as Barbie, Hot Wheels, and Fisher-Price. Mattel has launched Barbie Loves the Ocean, its first fashion doll line made from recycled ocean bound plastic. The collection features three dolls whose bodies are made from 90% recycled ocean bound plastic parts, as well as a Beach Shack playset and accessories, which are made from over 90% recycled plastic.
Mattel has also introduced a new brand campaign, The Future of Pink is Green, to engage kids in supporting a greener future.
These success stories are just the tip of the iceberg. By embracing ocean bound plastic, these brands are not only creating innovative products but also sending a powerful message to consumers and the industry as a whole. Their commitment to sustainability is inspiring others to follow suit, creating a ripple effect that can have a profound impact on the health of our oceans for generations to come.
Interested in making a difference? Explore the Ocean Bound Plastic Certification Program on our website or contact us for more information. Our team is here to provide the support and guidance you need to join the ranks of environmentally conscious businesses!
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Plastic pollution is not just an eyesore – it's a ticking time bomb for our marine ecosystems. Ocean-bound plastic (OBP) poses a particularly severe threat. The key to tackling this lies in understanding two distinct categories of OBP: commercially recyclable and non-commercially recyclable. Knowing this difference will guide our strategies to mitigate the harm caused by OBP before it's too late. Commercially Recyclable OBP: A Path to New Products Commercially recyclable OBP can be sold into existing recycling systems. The key factor is that the price obtained for the recycled material is enough to cover the costs of collecting the OBP in the first place. This economic viability depends heavily on local conditions. The local availability of recycling technology, transportation distances, the density of OBP at a collection site, and the presence of buyers (off-takers) all play a role in whether OBP can be successfully integrated into the recycling value chain. Non-Commercially Recyclable OBP: The Challenge Non-commercially recyclable OBP presents a more difficult problem. This type of OBP cannot be sold to recyclers for several potential reasons: Economics : The sale price may be far less than the cost of collection, making it financially unsustainable. Technical limitations : Current recycling technology may not be suitable for certain types of OBP. Contamination : The OBP may be too heavily degraded or mixed with other materials, making recycling difficult or impossible. Material Composition : Certain plastics are inherently non-recyclable based on their chemical structure. These types of OBP are sometimes referred to as "no value," "negative value," or "low value" materials, as their cleanup and disposal create a cost burden rather than an income source. It's essential to remember that what makes OBP commercially recyclable or not is highly dependent on the local situation. A specific type of plastic might be recyclable in a region with advanced infrastructure and robust recycling markets, yet remain non-commercially recyclable in an area with limited resources and less demand for recycled materials. Addressing the OBP crisis requires a two-pronged approach. For commercially recyclable OBP, expanding collection and recycling infrastructure is crucial. This will turn more waste into a resource, creating value within a circular economy. For non-commercially recyclable OBP, solutions are more complex. We need investment in new recycling technologies, research into alternative disposal methods, and policies focused on preventing this type of plastic from entering the environment in the first place. Understanding the difference between commercially and non-commercially recyclable OBP is a critical step in tackling ocean plastic pollution. It helps guide our efforts toward the most effective solutions in combating this persistent environmental problem. Learn about the OBP Certification Program and how it can benefit your business – visit our website or get in touch with us!
Kartini Day, celebrated annually on April 21st in Indonesia, honors Raden Adjeng Kartini, a pioneer of women's rights and education in the early 20th century. Her unwavering belief in the potential of women to shape society continues to inspire progress towards gender equality. As we reflect on Kartini's legacy, it's vital to recognize the ways women are leading the way in modern advancements – including the field of sustainability certification. Breaking Down Barriers Auditor role in sustainability certification is a critical position that examines an organization's impact on economic, social, and environmental factors – the three pillars of sustainability. Auditors assess how businesses manage resources, their effect on environment and communities, ethical supply chain practices, and adherence to sustainable standards. However, women remain underrepresented. QSI actively works to dismantle this barrier by providing women with the same opportunities and resources as their male counterparts. Leading the Charge in Gender Equality At QSI, we recognize that the path to a sustainable future is paved through equality. We firmly believe that women and men should have the same opportunities to shape a responsible and ethical world, which is why we are actively fostering a workplace where female sustainability auditors thrive. We actively promote a culture that empowers women auditors in several ways: Fair Hiring Practices QSI actively works to dismantle this barrier by implementing blind recruiting practices. This means resumes are reviewed without identifying information like gender, ensuring the selection process focuses solely on qualifications and experience. This approach allows talented women to be judged on their merits, increasing their chances of securing exciting opportunities as an Auditor. Equal Opportunity We ensure women have equal access to challenging assignments and leadership positions. Performance and qualifications are the sole criteria for advancement. Fostering Collaboration We cultivate an inclusive environment where women feel comfortable voicing their ideas and contributing to critical decision-making processes. Flexible Arrangements Support women in balancing work and family responsibilities by offering flexible work options and family-friendly policies. Benefits of a Gender-Balanced Workforce A workforce that reflects the diversity of the world brings a multitude of benefits. Here's how a gender-balanced team of Auditors strengthens QSI: Enhanced Decision-Making Diverse perspectives lead to richer discussions and a more comprehensive understanding of complex issues. Improved Client Service A diverse team of auditors can better relate to a wider range of clients, fostering stronger partnerships and a deeper understanding of their unique challenges and needs. Innovation and Creativity When diverse minds collaborate, innovation thrives. A gender-balanced team can spark new ideas and approaches, leading to a more dynamic and effective organization. Empowering women auditors is not just a matter of fairness; it's a strategic imperative for driving positive change in the sustainability landscape. By harnessing the talents and perspectives of women, we can strengthen the integrity and effectiveness of sustainability certification processes, ultimately contributing to a more resilient and equitable world for generations to come. Let us continue to champion equality, diversity, and inclusion, not just on Kartini's Day, but every day, as we work towards a brighter and more sustainable future for all!
The image of a majestic whale entangled in plastic debris, or a sea turtle mistaking a plastic bag for a jellyfish, is a stark reminder of the growing crisis of ocean plastic pollution. Millions of tons of plastic waste enter our oceans each year, causing devastating consequences for marine ecosystems and ultimately, for ourselves. The fight against this plastic tide requires a multi-pronged approach, and at the very forefront stands a diverse group of individuals and organizations: the Ocean Bound Plastic (OBP) collectors. These dedicated entities play a critical role in intercepting plastic waste before it reaches our precious oceans, but their roles and responsibilities are as varied as the landscapes they operate in. By understanding this intricate network of collectors, we gain a deeper appreciation for the complex yet crucial efforts underway to protect our oceans. Collection Organization Lead the charge in OBP collection, responsible for organizing the systematic retrieval of OBP. These entities, whether companies or other organizations, stick to strict standards outlined in the OBP Collection Organization Standard (OBP-COL-STD). Small Collector While Collection Organizations handle large-scale collection, there's another important group: Small Collectors. These legal entities collect OBP and sell it to certified organizations under the OBP Collection Organization Standard (OBP-COL-STD) or the OBP Neutralization Services Provider Standard (OBP-NEU-STD). Independent Collector On a smaller scale are Independent Collectors, typically individuals or very small groups operating independently. Despite their modest size, Independent Collectors play a crucial role by collecting and selling smaller quantities of OBP, typically below 200 kilograms per day on a monthly average. Supplier Group These are a collaborative effort specifically designed for Small Collectors, which linked contractually to a certified organization, allow smaller entities to pool their resources and expertise. This collaborative approach makes OBP collection more accessible and efficient for smaller organizations, while ensuring adherence to OBP standards. Central to the effectiveness of these collection mechanisms are the standards set forth by the OBP Certification Program. By adhering to guidelines outlined in documents such as the OBP Collection Organization Standard (OBP-COL-STD), collectors ensure that their activities are not only effective but also environmentally responsible. These standards provide a framework for accountability, transparency, and continuous improvement within its ecosystem. If you're interested in learning more about how your organization can get involved in the OBP Certification Program, please visit our website or give us a call . See you, Qualizer !