Tell Canada to support a strong Global Plastics Treaty
We demand a strong Global Plastics Treaty to limit plastic production and use—one that would promote justice, keep oil in the ground, and support a just transition to a reuse-based economy. Urge the Canadian government to support a strong Global Plastics Treaty!
We demand an ambitious and strong Global Plastics Treaty that will limit plastic production and use. An impactful Global Plastics Treaty will:
- Cap and phase down plastic production;
- Change the way corporations deliver products to people with focus on refill and reuse;
- Hold corporate polluters accountable;
- Demand full transparency on plastic production, use, import and export;
- Require wealthy countries lead the zero-waste transition and help others;
- Promote justice and ensure Indigenous Peoples, fenceline communities, waste pickers and other affected communities have a voice in treaty design and outcomes; and
- Accelerate a just transition to a zero waste, low carbon, reuse based economy.
Tell world leaders to champion a strong Global Plastics Treaty during upcoming negotiations so that we can finally turn off the tap and end the age of plastic.
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Global Plastics Treaty: What Happened at INC-5 and What’s Next?
The fifth round of negotiations for a new Global Plastics Treaty to end plastic pollution (Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee or INC-5) finished in Busan, South Korea on December 1st, 2024. This…
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The fight continues, no treaty yet: Global Plastics Treaty negotiations fail to deliver agreement
The fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC5) for a Global Plastics Treaty ended today with an agreement to meet again for what will be the final negotiation meeting to land a deal.
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The cost of convenience: Why ditching plastic is a justice issue
Plastic products have been marketed to us as innocuous items of convenience. Plastic bags, food containers, candy wrappers, packaging of all kinds, meant to make life easier on the go,…
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Greenpeace Canada reactive to an analysis of fossil fuel and chemical industry lobbyists at INC5
The increase, once again, in fossil fuel and petrochemical lobbyists engaged in Plastics Treaty negotiations exposes an industry pulling out all the stops to keep us trapped in the plastic crisis.
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At Plastics Treaty Talks, Greenpeace warns world leaders: “We are watching”
Massive public support for a strong Global Plastics Treaty that cuts plastic production is undeniable in Canada and globally. Today we delivered a reminder to world leaders that we are watching to see if they will step up to finally put people and the planet before plastic.
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What do bath bombs, ice cream, and reusable coffee cups have in common?
Living your best life? Well that and some businesses offering these beloved items have teamed up to push for a strong Global Plastics Treaty via the Champions of Change –…
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What Do Bath Bombs Have in Common with the U.N. and Why Should I Care?
There has never been a more crucial time to fight plastic pollution as we are rapidly approaching INC-5, the last scheduled negotiation session for the Global Plastics Treaty, in Busan,…
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Bette Midler, Lupita Nyong’o join other actors, activists and athletes asking world leaders to cut plastic production
Global influencers signed an open letter calling on global leaders to champion a strong plastics agreement and “to agree to end single-use plastics.”
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Plastic action on plastic villains, this #PlasticFreeJuly!
Plastic Free July is underway, and what better time than now to review some key actions you can take to help accelerate our transition to a plastic-free future.
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Big Plastic and the Big Legal Fight
At a time when our oceans are filled with plastic pollution, chemicals used to make plastics are linked to serious health issues like decreased reproductive health and cancer, and scientists…
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As international plastics treaty negotiations conclude in Ottawa, fight over domestic regulation rages on
After a decision from the Federal Court late last year upended Canada’s efforts to regulate plastic pollution, the legal fight is set to continue.
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INC-4: Plastics talks in Ottawa end on a disappointing note under compromised Canadian leadership
Late on Monday night, the fourth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-4) for a Global Plastics Treaty ended with world governments failing to agree on the inclusion of any reference to plastic production or polymers in intersessional work, despite strong support by various countries, scientists and civil society groups. While Canada supported in principle…
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INC-4: Greenpeace hangs a banner on Mackenzie King Bridge, urging delegates to put people over plastic
Twenty-four hours before the end of the negotiations for a Plastics Treaty at the fourth Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-4), Greenpeace Canada activists hung a banner on the Mackenzie King Bridge, right next to the Shaw Center, where world delegations are gathered. The fourteen meters banner read “People over polluters: Cut plastic production now!” and followed…
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INC-4: Greenpeace reacts to Minister Guilbeault undermining ambition during Plastics Treaty talks in Ottawa
In response to Minister Guilbeault declaring “a cap on plastic production may be too complicated” at the fourth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-4), Sarah King, Head of Plastics & Oceans at Greenpeace Canada, said:
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INC-4: Peaceful Greenpeace activist arrested by police at the Shaw Center
One activist from Greenpeace Canada was arrested outside of the Shaw Center in Ottawa while engaged in a peaceful protest.
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Greenpeace ramps up pressure on UN delegates to cut plastic production, by delivering a “Global Plastics Factory”
As a new day of negotiations begins at the fourth Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-4) in Ottawa, Greenpeace Canada delivered a 20-foot “Global Plastics Factory” to the doorstep of the Shaw Center, where the talks on a Global Plastics Treaty are taking place.
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🚨 Live Updates from INC4: People vs Plastic
From April 23-29, Ottawa will host the fourth of five UN negotiations for a Global Plastics Treaty. The first three rounds were chaotic and dominated by Big Plastic trying to…
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Ottawa Plastic Talks: strong Global Plastics Treaty still within reach
global treaty that cuts plastic production and ends single-use plastic pollution is still within reach and governments have a duty to do all they can to secure it, said Greenpeace International and The Descendants Project at a press conference today. Campaigners and activists from impacted communities said Member States must ensure the fourth Intergovernmental Negotiating…
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INC-4: Greenpeace Canada’s reaction to Minister’s Guilbeault introducing a Federal Plastics Registry
In response to Minister Guilbeault announcement introducing a Federal Plastics Registry during the the High-level partnerships day’s opening Session at the fourth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-4), Sarah King, Head of Plastics & Oceans at Greenpeace Canada, said:
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March to End the Plastic Era, led by Indigenous Peoples and impacted community leaders, exposes how plastic poisons people across its full lifecycle
Break Free From Plastic members and allies peacefully demand a human-rights based approach to the Plastics Treaty ahead of fourth round of negotiations.
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INC4: Canada must get the global Plastics Treaty talks back on track
This April, representatives from more than 170 global governments will come together in Ottawa, Canada to negotiate a UN global Plastics Treaty – a once-in-a-generation opportunity to begin to solve the plastic pollution crisis.
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Ahead of Ottawa UN negotiations: 7 out of 10 people in Canada support a Global Plastics Treaty that cuts plastic production
A Greenpeace International report revealed that 73% of respondents in Canada say cutting plastic production is necessary to stop plastic pollution.
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To be a treaty for the people, the Global Plastics Treaty must reduce plastic production
Have you ever seen a referendum that 80% of people would support? Such an event is rare, although not unprecedented. This is a remarkable result, which demonstrates broad support for…
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Greenpeace delivers Global Plastics Treaty petition to Environment & Climate Change Canada ahead of UN negotiations
Greenpeace Canada delivered a petition this morning calling for a strong UN Plastics Treaty to the Office of Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC).
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UNEA-6: Member States Urged to Uphold Ambition in Plastics Treaty Negotiation
As the 6th session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-6) concludes, Greenpeace renews calls for member states to push for an ambitious Global Plastics Treaty.
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How to Reduce Holiday Waste: 50+ Eco-friendly Tips
The Holidays have become the most wasteful time of the year. Instead of a mounting pile of garbage and cheap things we don’t need, let’s celebrate the Holidays with our loved ones more intentionally. Explore the Low Waste Holiday guide below!
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UN INC3 ends in frustration as governments allow low ambition countries to derail Global Plastics Treaty
The third session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC3) for a Global Plastics Treaty ends on a disappointing note for the fight against the plastic and climate crises.
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Reaction to the Federal Court overturning Canada’s single-use plastic ban
The Federal Court today overturned Canada’s single-use plastic ban.
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Reaction to industry lobbyist access at Global Plastics Treaty talks
Response to an analysis conducted by Center for International Environmental Law (CIEL) and supported by Greenpeace.
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INC-3: Artists, activists call for Global Plastics Treaty to end the age of plastic
The third round of negotiations for a Global Plastics Treaty begins today.
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Greenpeace demands for a strong Global Plastics Treaty
Greenpeace demands for a strong Global Plastics Treaty.
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Companies must turn failure into effective action on the plastics crisis
Reacting to the new Ellen MacArthur Report entitled ‘The Global Commitment Five Years In: Perspective On Progress’ and 2022/23 progress report for Global Commitment signatories, Louise Edge said: …
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Reaction to the federal government’s announcement aiming to reduce plastic food packaging in retail
The federal government’s announcement targets plastic packaging that comes into direct contact with food.
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Barbie vs Oppenheimer: Two diametrically opposed universes that remind us of plastic and nuclear threats
“Barbenheimer” is probably the film event of the year. The simultaneous premieres of two Hollywood blockbusters by two cult directors: Greta Gerwig’s Barbie, a pink fantasy comedy and Christopher Nolan’s…
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INC2 Reaction: Global Plastics Treaty must reduce plastic production — or it will fail
Talks for a Global Plastics Treaty in Paris concluded today.
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Environmental, health orgs and businesses call on Canada to Expand the Single-Use Plastics Ban
More than 60 environmental and health organizations and businesses across Canada are calling on the federal government to Expand the Single-Use Plastics Ban by adding six new categories.
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Dozens of groups join our call to #ExpandTheBan on single-use plastics. Will you?
The first phase of Canada’s single-use plastics ban has come into force, but it’s leaving many people wondering what the change is going to look like in their everyday lives.
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Peace, Love, Gratitude: Environmental Victories of 2022
The story of Greenpeace is one of hope.
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A new Plastics Treaty: How Canada can help end the age of plastic
Negotiations to create a new Global Plastics Treaty at the UN are currently underway. ‘Tis the season to help Minister Guilbeault and the federal government define what a truly ambitious, strong Global Plastics Treaty means – to turn off the plastic tap once and for all.
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Your Dose of Good News!
There’s no place like home. Home may look different for each of us, but we all share this beautiful planet. And there are so many people working to protect what we love.
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Unmasking Halloween waste: is a zero waste fright night possible?
The companies preventing you from having a zero waste Halloween are the same ones trashing the oceans. Here’s how the federal government can change that.
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A Dose of Good News
Maybe you’ve participated in our campaigns. Maybe you’re feeling overwhelmed by some of the media headlines lately and could use a dose of good news. Maybe you’re working on a…
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New coalition must move toward a strong, ambitious plastics treaty
The Governments of Rwanda and Norway have jointly launched a High Ambition Coalition to end plastic pollution. Canada is one of the first countries to join.
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Cups and cleaners: Meet the small businesses paving the reuse-refill path forward. Last in a series
In this second and final part of this series, we spotlight three small businesses that centre reuse and refill in different, sometimes surprising ways — from delivery services to a single-use cup free cafe.
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Soaps and staples: Meet the small businesses paving the reuse-refill path forward. First in a series
In this first part of a two-part series, we spotlight locally-owned reuse and refill shops.
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Hold the real polluters accountable this Plastic Free July!
It’s time for Coca-Cola and Pepsi to take the challenge.
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This #PlasticFreeJuly, join the call for a strong, just Global Plastics Treaty
Plastic Free July is well underway and with it always comes a breath of new life into the sails of the plastic-free, zero waste movement.
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Reaction to Federal Single-Use Plastic Ban Regulations
Today, the federal government announced the Single-Use Plastics Prohibition regulations, which bans the import and manufacture of certain versions of six single-use plastics by the end of this year.
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World Refill Day: Will Government and Big Brands Finally Answer the Movement’s Calls?
It’s World Refill Day — a global campaign to prevent plastic pollution and help people live with less waste.
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Statement on new reuse-return cup pilot program launched by Vancouver and major fast food brands
In response to the new reuse-recycle cup program launched by the City of Vancouver, Tim Hortons, McDonald’s, A&W, Starbucks, Return-It, Metro Vancouver and Merlin Plastics…
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Global plastics treaty mandate: pivotal step to end plastic pollution
The United Nations Environment Assembly announced today the outcome of the UNEA 5.2 meeting adopting a mandate to open negotiations for a legally binding global plastics treaty.
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The mental load of zero waste
The mental load is a term for the constant demands which typically fall on women’s shoulders, related to the planning, management and execution of a task or set of tasks.
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Help make Canada’s single-use plastic ban count!
On December 25th, the federal government published the draft regulations for the much anticipated plastic ban, opening up a 70-day public consultation period.
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The world is ditching plastics with reuse and refill laws and practices
Thanks to pressure from millions of people around the world, governments are finally beginning to acknowledge that the only way to tackle the plastic pollution crisis.
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Statement on Canada’s draft Single-use Plastics Prohibition (ban) Regulations
The proposed single-use plastics ban regulations are a missed opportunity to signal a true shift to a low carbon, reuse-centered zero waste economy.
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Who to blame and what to do with ocean plastic pollution?
Oceans are the lungs of our planet but its plastic pollution risks reaching 90 mln tonnes by 2030. So it’s time to fight ocean pollution.
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How to manage eco-anxiety: Advice from a climate activist
“The moon is following us home again!” My daughter exclaimed as she always does. “But why is it red?” Her question hit me with the weight of the realization that with the moon, the climate crisis, too, is following us home.
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Plastic listed as toxic under CEPA: a bold move against the plastic industry’s pressure
Earlier today, the federal government announced the addition of plastic manufactured items as toxic under Schedule 1 of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA). This addition is not only an important step paving the way for the single-use plastic ban promised by the federal government in 2020, but it is also sending a bold message…
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The oil and gas industry is inherently misogynistic
In celebration of International Women’s Rights Day, Greenpeace Canada is proud to highlight the womxn who contribute to our success! Each day, they will share their perspectives on their roles and experiences as women in the environmental movement!
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Sorry to be a Grinch … but plastics recycling? That’s not a thing.
Hand up if you’re still confused about whether certain types of plastic packaging can be put in your blue bin! You are not alone. We’re her to demystify why plastic recycling … isn’t a thing. Sorry to be a Grinch about it 🙂
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With holiday waste set to spike, Greenpeace report warns that plastic recycling “is not a thing”
VANCOUVER / AAMJIWNAANG — A new Greenpeace investigation reveals that Canada can’t handle the plastic trash companies generate. Findings demonstrate that the federal government’s new approach for achieving zero plastic waste by 2030 is likely doomed to fail, leaving households, communities and the environment to deal with the consequences.
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Low Waste Holiday Gift Guide
For those of you looking to bring some cheer to friends and family this season while reducing Holiday waste to care for the planet, here are some low-waste Holiday gift ideas to get you started.
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Can’t decide on a real vs. fake Christmas tree? Try one of these eco-friendly options
Alongside zero waste wrapping, we can now add ‘the great tree debate’ to the list of viral Holiday eco-trends worth unpacking: which is more sustainable, a real tree or a fake tree?
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Never Buy Gift Paper Again: the Ultimate Guide to Zero Waste Wrapping
Canadians generate 545,000 tonnes of waste from gift wrapping and shopping bags every year — that’s the equivalent of 100,000 elephants if you need a visual. Here are 12 techniques to rethink how you wrap up your gifts this year.
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Canada’s new #ZeroPlasticWaste plan? That’s a hard no.
You may have seen our response to the long-awaited federal single-use plastics ban announcement and thought to yourself – that seems harsh even for you, Greenpeace. Isn’t a ban what…
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Haunted by Halloween waste? Try these 5 low-waste tricks.
Halloween has a number of skeletons in the closet – or rather, the landfill. Cheap costumes, decorations and single-use candy wrappers all contain hard (or impossible) to recycle plastic. You can cut back on the amount of waste you and your family generates during Halloween with the following 5 tricks.
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Top Canadian Plastic Polluter to test reusable, returnable packaging next year!
Reusable AND returnable take-out containers and cups available at Tim Hortons?!
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Greenpeace reaction to Tim Hortons and Loop partnership on reusable container pilot program
TORONTO – Today, Tim Hortons, announced that it will partner with Loop to pilot a deposit-return reusable cup and packaging program in some locations across Toronto. The pilot is set to begin in 2021. Burger King, also owned by Restaurant Brands International Inc., will pilot similar programs outside of Canada. In response to the news,…
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Long-awaited plastic ban fails to put dent in waste and pollution crisis
In reaction to the federal government’s announcement concerning its approach to zero plastic waste by 2030 strategy.
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Greenpeace Throne Speech scorecard gives mixed marks to Liberals’ “ambitious but incomplete” recovery plans
Today, Greenpeace Canada launched a scorecard evaluating the plans and priorities in yesterday’s Speech from the Throne. The scorecard offers an in depth analysis of the measures announced, including how the plans stack up against the policies Greenpeace recommended for a green and just recovery from covid-19.
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Throne Speech: meh or yay?
Our scorecard tells you whether or not the government’s plans will curb inequality and fix the climate crisis.
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Greenpeace Canada’s Speech from the Throne
What if Greenpeace was asked to write the Speech from the Throne? Why, we thought you’d never ask. Here’s our take on what the speech should sound like in order to live up to the Liberals’ promise of a green and equitable recovery.
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4 must-have jobs for a green-recovery
Prime Minister Trudeau and Finance Minister Freeland have promised us a “green” and “equitable” recovery from covid-19 — jobs will be a central piece. Here are 6 must-have jobs for a green-recovery we hope to see in the September 23rd Throne Speech.
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Reusables are doable!
After months of the plastic industry exploiting fears about COVID-19 to scare people into buying more single-use plastics, Greenpeace just launched a brand new report, Reusables Are Doable, to highlight…
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Health experts call for reusable PPE to protect people and planet
Health experts from around the world today endorsed the use of well-made reusable masks or gloves that are properly sanitized in order to protect the environment from pollution as well as our communities from the global COVID-19 pandemic.
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These solutions could transform your take-out coffee experience
It’s no secret that Canadians LOVE coffee. Third in the world on highest per capita consumption per litre in 2015, and consistently in the Top 10! A sustainable and profitable…
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What exactly is system change and how can we build back better from covid-19?
Lately, talk of system change is everywhere. But what does it mean? We break this down for you and spell out some pathways for post-pandemic social and ecological transformation.
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Starbucks should invest in a plastic-free future rather than forbid reusable cups
As we enter a new phase in the COVID-19 pandemic, and more businesses open up across the country, lots of us have been keeping an eye on what the modus…
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Reusables can be used safely: Over 125 health experts fire back at the plastic industry
While the world is rightly preoccupied with tackling COVID-19, oil companies are pushing to produce more single-use plastic than ever before. So what do we need to know about plastic…
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Over 120 health experts defend safety of reusables during COVID-19 pandemic
Over 100 health experts including 5 canadians from eighteen countries signed onto a statement today assuring retailers and consumers that reusables are safe during COVID-19, pushing back on claims by the plastic industry.
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The Makers: Vancouver’s Kristina Kearley on the frontlines of COVID-19 … a green & just recovery
Canask is an informal collective that’s working to flatten the COVID-19 curve by redistributing donations of masks and other personal protective equipment. We sat down with Coordinator Kristina Kearley to talk about a just transition from the pandemic.
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How a true circular economy could be the answer to our plastic problem
The term ‘circular economy’ has become a popular buzzword in government reports, at industry conferences and even on the websites of popular consumer brands.
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Oil lobby looking to plastic to keep the petrochemical industry afloat
All the headlines screaming about the record drop in oil prices and the decline in demand for fossil fuels due to lockdown measures mask the fact that oil’s sister sector – petrochemicals – is booming.
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Single-use plastics are a health risk, period.
As we think about our economic, societal and planetary recovery from COVID-19, it’s clear that one word stands out – health.
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Single-use plastics ban: 5 actions you can take for a #PlasticFreeFuture
In Canada, this year was expected to be the year that signalled a shift towards an economy less dependent on single-use plastics. We were going to be told what plastics…
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Ban on single-use plastics: let’s make more noise than lobbies!
Will years of efforts to fight plastic pollution and reduce single-use plastics be wiped out? The year 2020 was supposed to be the year of a marked shift towards an economy less dependent on single-use plastics.
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‘The Story of Plastic’ is an eye-opener on the global plastic pollution crisis
What does an anti-oil & gas activist in Houston, Texas, have in common with a lawyer advocating for plastic bag bans in Jakarta, Indonesia, and a waste picker in Delhi,…
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Health and the Reuse Revolution: supporting zero waste over industry’s coronavirus scare tactics
Not surprisingly, the industry’s counter-attack to undermine efforts to reduce single-use plastics and combat plastic pollution is spreading like wildfire.
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Health and the Reuse Revolution: How governments and corporations can think beyond plastic to a green and just future
Over the last few weeks, we’ve seen the Canadian government, and other local and global governments, mobilize resources and public funds to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s been encouraging to…
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Is disposable safer than reusable? Let’s consult the science
Since the beginning of the pandemic in North America, many companies such as Starbucks, Bulk Barn and Tim Hortons have rightly taken steps to limit contamination in their restaurants and stores. But as more and more companies follow suit, we’re tackling the questions: are single-use packaging and containers actually safer? Is the fear of contamination…
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Health and the Reuse Revolution: Zero waste living in a time of crisis
A Blog Series with Tips, Tools, and Reflections. In recent weeks, the coronavirus pandemic has sparked a wider conversation about how people who want to continue to avoid disposables, support reuse and refill alternatives, and push for zero waste solutions can proceed, while being mindful of health. We aren’t the health experts, but we can…
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Next steps on plastic for Canada – from science to a strong single-use plastic ban
In 2019, with the federal election just around the corner, the Trudeau government made a promise to ban single-use plastics by 2021. An important, albeit overdue, step in that process has now been completed with the release of the Draft Science Assessment on Plastic Pollution. So what next? Now’s the moment for the feds to…
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Next steps on plastic for Canada – from science to a strong single-use plastic ban
In 2019, with the federal election just around the corner, the Trudeau government made a promise to ban single-use plastics by 2021. An important, albeit overdue, step in that process has now been completed with the release of the Draft Science Assessment on Plastic Pollution. So what next? Now’s the moment for the feds to…
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Tim Hortons makes changes to iconic Roll Up the Rim contest to incentivize reusables
Vancouver — In reaction to Tim Hortons’ announcement of the modernization of its iconic Roll Up the Rim to Win contest and its commitment to move toward reusables, Sarah King, Greenpeace Canada’s Head of Oceans & Plastics Campaign said:
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6 ways to break up with plastic and food waste on Valentine’s Day
You are probably wondering what kind of Valentine’s Day blog article would focus on a “break up”. Well, welcome to our funny, not so romantic, blue-sky world. My blue sky Valentine’s Day is filled with kindness, gender equality, positive vibes, love between all species, less plastic and mass consumption and more DIY gifts and local…
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Reaction to Quebec’s declaration to reform solid waste management and expand the extended producer responsibility
Montréal – In reaction to Quebec’s declaration to reform solid waste management and expand the extended producer responsibility, Agnès Le Rouzic, Oceans and Plastics campaigner at Greenpeace Canada, said:
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Reaction to the release of the federal Draft Science Assessment of Plastic Pollution
In reaction to the release of the federal Draft Science Assessment of Plastic Pollution supporting the need for a single-use plastics ban, Greenpeace Canada’s Head of Oceans and Plastics, Sarah King said:
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Imminent closure of four recycling centres in Quebec
Reacting to the announcement of the imminent closure of four recycling centres in Quebec, including Montréal’s two main sorting centres, Saint-Michel and Lachine, Greenpeace Canada’s Oceans and Plastics Campaigner, Agnès Le Rouzic said:
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Starbucks sets ‘resource positive’ goal for coming decade
In response to today’s news, Sarah King Head of Oceans & Plastics at Greenpeace Canada said: “While it’s a welcome development that Starbucks is revisiting its sustainability strategy, the company still has a lot to figure out as to how to make it happen as quickly as possible. When it comes to the climate crisis,…
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Nestlé commits to virgin plastic reduction yet doubles down on recycling myth
Nestlé has announced today that it will partly shift from virgin plastics to food grade recycled plastics. It also aims to accelerate the development of new packaging solutions. These commitments come ahead of the World Economic Forum that will take place in Davos between January 21st-24th.
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How One Woman and her Container Sparked a Canada-wide Reuse Program
Welcome to the #ReuseRevolution, where carrying Zero Waste Kits and asking for items to be put in reusable containers has become a worldwide rallying cry in the war on waste.
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Are zero waste supermarkets possible? Yes!
There was a time not so long ago when it was still possible to do your grocery shopping without filling your garbage can or blue box with single-use plastic packaging.…
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A supermarket without disposable packaging? Possible and happening – Greenpeace report
A supermarket without disposable packaging? Possible and happening. Greenpeace today released a report that presents “The Smart Supermarket”
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Attention: Canada’s Supermarket Chains – Will you join the Reuse Revolution?
Over 200,000 people have joined Greenpeace’s call for Canada’s big supermarket chains to start dealing with their massive plastic and packaging problem. Our petition numbers keep growing, while conversations online,…
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Statement from Canada’s Leading National Environmental Groups on the election of a Liberal (minority) government
Canadians have sent a clear message with this election: they favour strong environmental protection and want the federal government to dramatically ramp up action to reverse species decline and tackle…
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The #ReuseRevolution is the answer to the plastics crisis
In response to the global plastic crisis, a growing movement–the Reuse Revolution–is creating hope, and real solutions to the mess plastic-producers have made. There are an array of innovative solutions…
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Who Tops Canada’s Plastic Polluters List This Year?
For a second year, members of the global Break Free From Plastic movement, community groups and individuals have set out to answer the question – Who’s responsible for the plastic…
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Nestlé, Tim Hortons top Greenpeace Canada’s Plastic Polluter List for Second Year
MONTRÉAL – Today, Greenpeace Canada released its 2019 Top 5 Plastic Polluters list, with Nestlé and Tim Hortons ranked in the top two positions for the second year in a…
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Why Single Use is Not the Future Option
Thanks to pressure from people all around the world, brands and retailers know they need to take responsibility for creating this global plastic waste and pollution epidemic. We are increasingly…
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Greenpeace report exposes how multinationals are pretending to solve the plastic crisis
Vancouver – A Greenpeace USA report released yesterday, Throwing Away the Future: How Companies Still Have It Wrong on Plastic Pollution “Solutions,” warns consumers to be skeptical of the so-called…
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Leading National Environmental Organizations Release Responses from Federal Parties on 10 Environmental Priority Questions
Today, Canada’s leading environmental organizations released the answers to a Federal Party Survey on Environmental Platforms that address the climate change, biodiversity, toxics and waste crises harming our country. The survey was…
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Join the global plastic pollution cleanup day and do a mini brand audit!
It’s Brand Audit time again and alongside our allies in the global Break Free From Plastic movement, we’re inviting folks to help gather data from across Canada and around the…
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Avoiding the back to school/work plastic blues on your next shopping mission
How is it the end of (northern hemisphere) summer already?! I don’t know about you, but I am so not ready to give up patio lunches, say goodbye to the…
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REACTION: WHO’s report – research must go on
Montréal – In response to the WHO report into the effects of microplastics on human health, Greenpeace Canada Head of Oceans and Plastics campaign responded: “This WHO report clearly acknowledges…
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Marc Gasol joins Greenpeace to fight plastic pollution
Toronto – Today, Toronto Raptors player Marc Gasol announced he will join Greenpeace’s campaign to stop single-use plastics. “I would like to make this world a much more sustainable place…
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REACTION: Sobeys takes a long-awaited first step on the road to the reduction of single-use plastics
Montreal – In response to Sobey’s announcement to remove all plastic bags at the cash in its 255 Canadian locations by the end of January 2020 and in its Montreal…
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National plastic action plan phase one – where is the plan?
Vancouver – In response to the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment’s action plan on plastic waste in Canada, Greenpeace Canada Head of Plastic and Oceans Campaign, Sarah King…
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Immediate action needed to solve plastic pollution problem
Groups roll out plastic waste carpet for Environment Ministers K’JIPUKTUK (HALIFAX) – At noon today environmental groups are rolling out a carpet covered with plastic litter for delegates to Canadian…
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A single-use plastic ban in Canada? Let’s hold the feds to it!
Last week we were met with surprising but welcome news, that the Trudeau government plans to ban certain single-use plastics as early as 2021. This is the news that we’ve…
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Reaction – Canada ban on single-use plastics: Greenpeace welcomes the move
Montreal — In reaction to the federal government’s announcement today about a move towards banning single-use plastics and rolling out Extended Producer Responsibility programs, Sarah King, Greenpeace Canada’s Head of…
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New Executive Director focuses on a Greenpeace for a new generation
Toronto – With great enthusiasm and pleasure, Greenpeace Canada’s Board of Directors announces the appointment of Christy Ferguson to the position of Executive Director. The 42-year-old new mother has been…
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Metro’s plastic packaging policy keeps grocery carts full of plastic
Montreal — In reaction to Metro’s announcement of their new paper and plastic packaging policy, Sarah King, Greenpeace Canada’s Head of Oceans & Plastics Campaign said: “Canadians have made it…
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Tim Hortons’ new no-spill lid just adds to plastic pollution
In reaction to Tim Hortons’ announcement of a new plastic coffee cup lid that reduces spills and is “100% recyclable”, Sarah King, Greenpeace Canada’s Head of Oceans & Plastics Campaign…
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Nestlé has created a #PlasticMonster, and we’re calling on them to slay it
Over the last few weeks, Greenpeace and our allies in the Break Free From Plastic movement have ramped up our global campaign targeting Nestlé for its massive role in the…
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Greenpeace welcomes Montreal’s commitment to reducing single-use plastic
In response to the City of Montreal’s announcement concerning its single-use plastic reduction strategy, Agnès Le Rouzic, Oceans & Plastic Campaigner at Greenpeace Canada, said: “We welcome the Plante administration’s…
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Greenpeace activists ship plastic monster back to Nestlé
(Montreal) – Greenpeace activists in Canada, the U.S., Switzerland, and several other countries around the world [1] unveiled “plastic monsters” covered with branded plastic packaging at Nestlé offices and consumer…
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Greenpeace Winnipeg: Motivating Action Through Film
Last month, our Greenpeace Winnipeg local group volunteers organized a film screening and panel discussion to engage people on the topic of the growing plastic crisis in their community…
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How to get the most out of your #Trashtag Challenge
The #Trashtag Challenge is the latest challenge to go viral on social media. The idea is simple: grab your gloves and a handful of garbage bags and clean up an…
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STATEMENT: Greenpeace horrified by whale’s death from plastic waste and deplores lack of international action to combat plastic pollution in oceans
(MONTRÉAL) – In response to the news that a whale washed ashore in the Philippines on Saturday with 40 kilos of plastic bags in its gut, Agnès Le Rouzic, Greenpeace…
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STATEMENT: Greenpeace applauds Ontario NDP’s proposed bill to ban single-use plastics
(MONTRÉAL) – In response to the Ontario NDP’s proposed private member’s bill announced today calling for a ban of single-use plastics in Ontario, Sarah King, Head of Greenpeace Canada’s Oceans…
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STATEMENT: Greenpeace calls out feds for hypocrisy in plastic investment
(MONTRÉAL) – In reaction to the federal government’s announcement of an investment of $49 million to Calgary-based Inter Pipeline, to turn Alberta propane into plastic pellets for the manufacture of…
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STATEMENT: Canada must stop dumping its plastic trash on Global South
(MONTRÉAL) — In response to the Canadian government’s refusal to sign on to an amendment to an international treaty [1] that would ban countries like Canada from shipping hazardous waste,…
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STATEMENT: New report finds entire lifecycle of plastics a threat to human health
WASHINGTON, DC – A new report from the Center for International Environmental Law (CIEL) examines the health impacts associated with plastics at every stage of their supply chain and lifecycle,…
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Three reasons why plastics won’t save the oil industry
As electric vehicles and cheap solar panels cut into the demand for petroleum-based fuels, an increasingly desperate oil industry has been banking on plastics to drive future demand growth. Here…
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Statement: Greenpeace supports NDP’s call to feds to ban single-use plastics
(MONTRÉAL) – In response to the NDP’s Waste Reduction Strategy announcement today calling for a ban of single-use plastics across Canada by 2022, a commitment for plastic packaging reduction targets,…
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Time for Tim Hortons’ Roll Up the Rim campaign to stop fuelling plastic pollution
It’s Roll Up the Rim time again across Canada with lovers of Tim Hortons’ popular rewards game flocking to Timmy Ho locations for their daily double double in hopes that…
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STATEMENT: Ben & Jerry’s to phase out plastic straws, utensils, lids, and cups in Scoop Shops worldwide
(Washington, DC) Ben & Jerry’s announced today that it will phase out plastic straws and utensils by April of 2019, and plastic lids, plastic cups, and plastic-lined cups by the end…
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STATEMENT: Walmart Canada heeds to public pressure and addresses plastic pollution
(MONTRÉAL) – In response to the announcement of Walmart Canada’s Charter on Plastics, a commitment to reduce plastic waste across its operations, Greenpeace Canada’s spokesperson for the Oceans & Plastics…
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Canada’s big supermarkets drowning you in plastic? Join thousands demanding change!
Did you happen to catch CBC Marketplace’s recent episode on excessive plastic packaging at Canada’s major retailers? Or the piece on The National?
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Nestle admits recycling is not enough to tackle plastic pollution crisis
Vevey, Switzerland – Nestle announced this week plans to accelerate its actions to tackle plastic pollution, which include making its packaging recyclable or reusable by 2025 and shifting to single-use paper…
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Canadian plastic ‘recycling’ polluting unregulated facilities in Southeast Asia
January 11, 2019 (MONTREAL) – Plastic trash from Canadian companies such as Sobeys and Saputo were identified in the mountains of trash found in unregulated sites in Malaysia, revealing an alarming…
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Top Five Worst Plastic Polluters in Canada Receive Gift of Their Plastic Waste From Greenpeace
December 13th, 2018 (TORONTO) – For the holiday season, Greenpeace volunteers delivered gift boxes in person to the offices of Canada’s five top polluting corporations – Nestlé, Tim Hortons, PepsiCo.,…
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McKenna Shows no Leadership on Fighting Plastic Pollution with Release of National Plastic Strategy
November 23, 2018 (OTTAWA) – In reaction to the release of the federal government’s new national Zero Plastic Waste strategy following the annual meeting of the Canadian Council of Ministers…
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If Europe can do it, so can we!
On November 23rd, Catherine McKenna, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, will meet with provincial environment ministers to discuss a concerted strategy to reduce plastic pollution.
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Over 27,000 Concerned Canadians Ask the Feds to Phase-Out Single-Use Plastics
19 November 2018 (MONTREAL) – Over 27 thousand Canadians participated in the national public consultation on “Moving Canada Toward Zero Plastic Waste” [1], sending a clear message to Environment and Climate…
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PRESS RELEASE: Greenpeace unveils branded plastic trash installation at Yonge-Dundas Square
30 October 2018 (TORONTO) — Today, Greenpeace Canada unveiled a large art installation in Toronto’s Yonge-Dundas Square depicting the role of corporations in the plastic pollution crisis facing ocean life…
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PRESS RELEASE: Coca-Cola, Nestlé, Danone, Mars, PepsiCo. and Unilever sign global plastics pledge but still haven’t prioritized reduction
29 October, 2018 (BALI, INDONESIA) — Greenpeace has cautiously welcomed the New Plastics Economy Global Commitment announced today by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation (EMF), but note that it allows for…
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MEDIA ADVISORY: Eight-Foot High Branded Plastic Trash Sculpture at Yonge-Dundas Square
A stark reminder of corporate responsibility in plastic pollution 26 October 2018 (TORONTO) – On Tuesday, October 30th, 2018, Greenpeace Canada will reveal, downtown Toronto, a large-sized sculpture that contains…
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PRESS RELEASE: European Parliament takes historic stand against single-use plastic pollution
National governments must follow suit, say campaigners 24 October 2018 ( STRASBOURG, FRANCE) – The European Parliament has leapt forward to protect people and the environment from plastic pollution, and…
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PRESS RELEASE: Global survey reveals FMCG companies’ future contribution to plastic pollution crisis
23 October 2018 (MONTRÉAL) – Today Greenpeace released a report identifying several fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) corporations as predominant forces behind the throwaway economic model driving the plastic pollution…
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PRESS RELEASE: Over 90% of sampled salt brands globally found to contain microplastics
17 October 2018 (SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA) – Over 90% of sampled salt brands globally were found to contain microplastics, with the highest number coming from salt sourced in Asia, according to a…
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And the Top 5 Plastic Polluters are…
The Plastic Polluters Brand Audit results are in. It’s time to name and shame the companies that are trashing our waterways, oceans, green spaces and communities with their throwaway plastic.…
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PRESS RELEASE: Nestlé, Tim Hortons and PepsiCo found to be worst plastic polluters in Canada
In Canada: Nestlé, PepsiCo and The Coca-Cola Company also among top 5 Plastic Polluters October 9th, 2018 (MONTRÉAL) – The Coca-Cola Company, PepsiCo, and Nestlé were the corporations most frequently…
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MEDIA ANNOUNCEMENT: Greenpeace to reveal Plastic Polluters’ investigation results in Canada and worldwide
October 2nd, 2018 (MONTRÉAL) – On Tuesday October 9th, 2018, Greenpeace Canada will be revealing the results of the Plastic Polluters Brand Audits conducted three weeks prior on World Clean…
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Documenting plastic pollution in the Great Pacific Garbage Patch
Much of the plastic that we throw “away” ends up in our oceans. The Arctic Sunrise ship is journeying to the largest trash vortex in the ocean with the goal…
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G7 Ocean Plastic Charter : largest corporate polluters among named signatories
September 21, 2018 (VANCOUVER) – Coca-Cola, Unilever, Nestle Canada and other big corporations pledged to help reduce plastic pollution in support of the Ocean Plastics Charter, a campaign endorsed by…
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65% of surveyed Canadians agree governments should act quickly to ban single-use plastics
In light of Minister McKenna’s announcement of a ‘Zero Waste Strategy’ Greenpeace Canada: 65% of surveyed Canadians agree governments should act quickly to ban single-use plastics September 20, 2018 (VANCOUVER)…
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Feds miss opportunity to use law to tackle plastic pollution
September 20, 2018 (OTTAWA) – Ecojustice lawyer, James Gunvaldsen Klaassen, made the following statement in reaction to Minister of Environment and Climate Change Catherine McKenna’s failure to address a request…
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On World Clean Up Day Greenpeace Canada launches coast-to-coast Plastic Polluters Brand Audits
September 13, 2018 (VANCOUVER/TORONTO/MONTRÉAL/HALIFAX) – On World Cleanup Day this Saturday, September 15th, Greenpeace and partner organizations will be adding an extra investigative component to a series of simultaneous cleanup…
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MEDIA ADVISORY: Greenpeace Canada conducts coast-to-coast Plastic Polluters Brand Audits
On World Clean Up Day: Greenpeace Canada conducts coast-to-coast Plastic Polluters Brand Audits Results to be announced in October. 12 September 2018 (VANCOUVER/TORONTO/MONTRÉAL/HALIFAX) — As part of World Cleanup…
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How I woke up to the plastic pollution problem
A couple of years ago, I had the pleasure of teaching a young couple to dive in Thailand on one of my favourite reefs. Weather conditions were perfect, with mild currents…
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Join our Plastic Polluters Brand Audit on September 15th!
On Saturday, September 15th, shoreline and community cleanup activities will take place around the world. This year, Greenpeace, along with various organizations in the Break Free From Plastic movement, will…
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REACTIVE: Starbucks to remove fossil fuel derived plastic straws globally, debut new lids in Vancouver, Seattle
Vancouver, BC – Starbucks has announced today that it is removing fossil fuel derived plastic straws from its 28,000 stores globally by 2020, including its over 1000 stores in Canada.…
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G7 charter won’t effectively tackle plastic pollution, but Canada can still act
Greenpeace activists send G7 leaders a hard-to-miss message one day before the G7 Summit in Charlevoix Quebec. © David Kawai / Greenpeace This past weekend, the G7 announced the creation…
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STATEMENT: Ikea commits to phase out single-use plastics by 2020
June 8, 2018 (Washington, DC) – Ikea announced today that it will remove all single-use plastic products from its 363 stores globally and from customer and co-worker restaurants in its…
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PRESS RELEASE: Companies joining new Ellen MacArthur Foundation plastics leadership coalition must prioritize transparency and reduction
June 11, 2018 (VANCOUVER) – Today, the Ellen MacArthur Foundation announced the development of a new coalition on plastic pollution, urging the world’s largest companies to join and show leadership…
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STATEMENT: Trudeau’s announcement of G7 Ocean Plastics Charter indicates the agreement will fail to adequately address plastic pollution crisis
G7 Summit June 9, 2018 (QUÉBEC CITY) – Following Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s Chair’s Press Conference about the final communique of the 2018 G7 Summit and his announcement of the…
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MEDIA ADVISORY: G7 Summit : Environmental organizations will be in Quebec City
At the International Media Center June 7, 2018 (QUÉBEC City) – Environmental Defence Canada, Équiterre, Climate Action Network Canada and Greenpeace Canada will be available for interviews at the G7…
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PRESS RELEASE: G7 Summit: Environmental groups call on Minister McKenna to use law, crack down on plastic pollution
June 7, 2018 (OTTAWA) – On the eve of the G7 Summit meeting in Charlevoix, Quebec, environmental groups are calling on Canada’s Minister of Environment and Climate Change Catherine McKenna…
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Plastic pollution reaches the Antarctic
The Greenpeace ship Arctic Sunrise was in the Antarctic at the beginning of 2018 It’s not what we wanted to find. When Greenpeace set sail to the Antarctic earlier this…
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PRESS RELEASE: Greenpeace sends larger-than-life message to leaders one day before G7 Summit: ‘Recycling won’t cut it: Ban single-use plastics’
June 7, 2018 (OTTAWA) – One day before the G7 Summit starts in Charlevoix (Québec), Greenpeace Canada sends a hard-to-miss message to its seven leaders by deploying a giant plastic-bag…
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PRESS RELEASE: Activists call on G7 and corporations to end plastic pollution crisis
On World Environment Day June 5, 2018 (TORONTO) – New data collected through cleanups and brand audits confirms that some of the world’s largest corporations — including Coca-Cola, Unilever, Nestlé,…
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STATEMENT: Canada must use G7 presidency to tackle plastic pollution at the source
May 11, 2018 (TORONTO) – In response to Minister McKenna’s recent comments comparing the upcoming G7 plastics charter to the Paris Climate Agreement, Greenpeace Canada plastics campaigner, Farrah Khan, said:…
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Greenpeace’s new ‘open’ project & your plastic-free future toolkit!
Earth Day 2018’s theme is to End Plastic Pollution, and Greenpeace Canada is rising to the challenge with the launch of our brand new project that’s a bit different from…
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PRESS RELEASE: Greenpeace launches Plastic-Free Future Action Toolkit
For Earth Day Greenpeace is known for driving hard-hitting campaigns that expose environmental problems and hold corporations and governments accountable. Through the launch of a how-to guide entitled A Million Acts…
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Guest Blog: Action on plastics shouldn’t make life suck for disabled people
Greenpeace have been campaigning to raise awareness of the harmful impact plastics have on our oceans for several years: from microbeads to single-use plastics such as bottles, bags and straws. Nonetheless, it’s fair to say that the horrifying scenes captured by Sir David Attenborough’s ‘Blue Planet 2’ showcased the hazards faced by marine life, and…
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Share your pics of ridiculous packaging!
Have you ever looked around – at the supermarket, or coffee shop, or local mall – and noticed how much excessive plastic there is? Once you start looking for it, it’s EVERYWHERE. And it’s a huge problem.
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Do ocean sanctuaries really work?
Our oceans are massive and unlike most places on land, they don’t really have borders. Animals, water (and sadly now plastic) all move freely across the globe.
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PRESS RELEASE – Greenpeace slams Coca-Cola plastic announcement as ‘dodging the main issue’
More plastic production means more ocean plastic pollution Friday 19th January, 2018 — Greenpeace today criticised Coca-Cola’s new global plastics plan for failing to address the urgency of ocean plastic…
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Setting Sail to protect the Antarctic
As I write this the Arctic Sunrise, one of Greenpeace’s ships, is sailing south. For the next three months its crew will be working alongside a team of campaigners, photographers, film-makers, scientists and journalists from across the globe to build the case for the world’s largest protected area: an Antarctic Ocean Sanctuary.
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My week on a plastic beach helping to name and shame its polluters
It was more devastating than I imagined, and that’s saying something considering the descriptions and pictures I’ve been exposed to over the years. The plastic pollution covering Freedom Island in…
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My week on a plastic beach helping to name and shame its polluters
It was more devastating than I imagined, and that’s saying something considering the descriptions and pictures I’ve been exposed to over the years. The plastic pollution covering Freedom Island in…
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Nestlé, Unilever, P&G among worst offenders for plastic pollution in Philippines in beach audit
Montreal, September 21, 2017 – Following a week-long beach clean up on Freedom Island, a critical wetland habitat and Ramsar site [1] spanning 30 hectares in Manila Bay – one…
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Share Your Photos of Coke’s Plastic Pollution
Coca-Cola is the biggest producer of plastic bottles in the world, producing over 100 billion plastic bottles every year.
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Plastic Pollution – Why Coca-Cola bears responsibility
One of the best things about working on Greenpeace’s campaign to end ocean plastics is the chance to have lots of conversations with all sorts of people about the issue. One question that keeps coming up is – what’s the solution and who bears the responsibility?
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5 Reasons Why We Visited Coca-Cola’s HQ
On April 9th, Greenpeace installed a piece of art right on the doorstep of Coca-Cola’s European office in London (UK), to hold the soft drinks giant accountable for ocean plastic pollution.
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12 Eco-Friendly And Affordable Gift Ideas
1. Water bottle or coffee mug