Overview of the ZeroPlastic Commitment Standard
A practical path to meaningful plastic reduction — designed for real-world operations.
Overview
Where do we begin?
Plastic pollution is one of the most urgent environmental challenges of our time. While many organizations are aware of the problem, they often face the same question:
“Where do we begin?” That’s where the ZeroPlastic Commitment (ZPC) Standard comes in.
Developed by the ZeroPlastic Movement, this pioneering certification framework helps organizations systematically reduce plastic usage across their operations — starting with what’s realistic and building toward what’s transformational.
What is
ZeroPlastic Commitment Standard
The ZPC Standard is a multi-tiered, third-party verified certification that recognizes and rewards organizations for their concrete actions to reduce, substitute, and responsibly manage plastics, especially single-use plastics (SUPs).
Unlike most certifications that focus primarily on recycling or end-of-life waste management, the ZPC Standard focuses on reducing plastic at the source — in procurement, operations, and culture.
It offers a step-by-step pathway for businesses to move from commitment to compliance, from action to certification.
How the Standard Works
Three key pillars
- Baseline Assessment – Measure your current plastic footprint
- Plastic Reduction Plan (PRP) – Set goals, timelines, and strategies
- Plastic Management System (PMS) – Align internal systems, procurement, and training to support reduction
Each organization begins its journey with a self-assessment and enters the program at the ZPC Engaged level — a provisional status that marks your formal commitment and activates your 12-month timeline toward full certification.
Certification Levels
Certification Levels
Level 1 (Silver)
Elimination of SUPs, basic PRP & PMS
Level 2 (Gold)
Advanced strategies, stakeholder alignment
Level 3 (Platinum)
Deep circularity, zero operational plastics
Each level is validated through a third-party audit by Control Union, a globally recognized certification body.
ZeroPlastic Commitment (ZPC) Standard
Who Is It For?
The ZeroPlastic Commitment (ZPC) Standard is designed for organizations looking to take practical, credible steps toward reducing plastic usage in their day-to-day operations — especially in non-manufacturing environments. It is ideal for service-oriented, administrative, and public-facing settings where plastic use can be addressed through internal policies, procurement choices, staff practices, and stakeholder engagement.
The ZPC Standard is suitable for:
✅Offices and corporate headquarters
✅Banks and financial institutions
✅Buying offices and sourcing hubs
✅Hotels, restaurants, and hospitality businesses
✅Educational institutions (schools, universities, academies)
✅NGOs, government offices, and consulting firms
Giving Back
Why Choose
Start Small, Grow Fast: You don’t have to eliminate all plastics at once. The standard is designed to help you progress.
Science-Based and Practical: Built on international norms, but grounded in what’s actually achievable.
Globally Recognized Auditing: Certification is verified by Control Union, operating in 70+ countries.
Annual Renewal & Progression: Encourages continuous improvement — not just a one-time badge.
Credible Claims & Branding: Certified facilities can use the ZPC label and communicate their impact with confidence.