As the global movement against plastic pollution gains momentum, businesses are increasingly expected to lead by example. The ZeroPlastic Commitment Standard (ZPCS) offers a structured and credible way for organizations to reduce their plastic footprint and adopt sustainable practices that align with international standards.
Developed by the ZeroPlastic Movement and independently audited & certified by Control Union, one of the world’s leading third-party certification bodies, the ZPCS goes beyond local regulations to help businesses align with global sustainability goals such as the Global Plastic Treaty, the Global Tourism Plastics Initiative (GTPI), and the European Union’s Single-Use Plastics Directive.
What Is the ZeroPlastic Commitment Standard?
The ZPCS is more than a certification; it is a step-by-step framework designed to guide businesses through understanding their plastic footprint, creating actionable reduction strategies, and verifying progress through independent audits. It is suitable for a wide range of sectors, including tourism, hospitality, manufacturing, retail, and more.
The Four-Step Certification Process
- Initial Assessment
A joint team from the ZeroPlastic Movement and Control Union visits the business premises to assess current plastic usage. This includes identifying high-consumption areas and evaluating disposal practices. Staff interviews are also conducted to understand daily plastic-related behaviors. - Strategy Definition
A personalized report outlines the plastic footprint, identifies priority areas, and recommends specific actions. Baseline data is verified by Control Union to ensure transparency and accountability. - Reduction Planning
In collaboration with ZPCS experts, a customized Plastic Reduction Plan is developed. This plan includes a timeline for eliminating single-use plastics across procurement, packaging, and daily operations. Staff engagement initiatives such as awareness sessions and pledge campaigns are integrated into the process. - Implementation and Audit
Businesses begin executing the plan with ongoing guidance from ZPCS. A final audit by Control Union is conducted to verify compliance with the standard, leading to official certification.
Why It Matters
Achieving ZPCS certification shows that your organization is serious about reducing plastic pollution. It is a public demonstration of your values, commitment to environmental responsibility, and alignment with globally recognized sustainability frameworks.
This is not just about compliance—it is about leadership.
