Setting Targets for Plastic Pollution Reduction

Once companies have measured their plastic footprint, the next step is to set science-aligned, outcome-oriented targets. This page outlines PFN’s vision for corporate plastic accountability and how target setting will evolve alongside our mitigation work

Looking to take action? → See our Mitigation Framework here

A Vision for Corporate Plastic Accountability

At the Plastic Footprint Network, we’re working toward a vision of a corporate plastic accountability framework that supports both voluntary leadership and regulatory alignment, including with the future UN Treaty on Plastic Pollution.

Our goal: Bridge public and private sector efforts through a consistent, science-based framework that drives real reductions.

A vision for a corporate plastic accountability framework

Co-creating a vision: building blocks for developing plastic pollution target setting aligned to the UN Treaty on Plastic Pollution and mitigation actions led by best-in-class science.

This Vision Statement was developed by the PFN and its advisory committee:

PFN is thankful for the time and input of CDP in the development of the Vision Statement.

Our vision encompasses the comprehensive protection of ecosystems, human health, climate change, and non-renewable resource consumption. It emphasizes transparency, scientific rigor, and actionability in corporate targets.

The PFN proposes that the Corporate Accountability Framework under development includes three steps: Reduce, Avoid, and Manage. The steps underpin the Plastic Footprint Networks ongoing focus and efforts around the creation of an effective Plastics Treaty.

While ideal metrics may not exist for all areas of protection, the framework encourages corporate actors to set targets based on existing science, with alignment to the coming UN Treaty goals.

Mitigation Strategy Pillars

To complete the Corporate Accountability Framework under development, the PFN is developing methodologies for translation, sector-specific reduction pathways, and additionality methodologies, with input from multiple stakeholders.

Where we are Today

The Plastic Action Framework (PAF) categorises corporate mitigation actions — but it does not yet define how much plastic must be reduced per pillar or per company.

PFN is now working with key organizations to co-develop guidance on:

Setting quantitative reduction targets by intervention type
Developing plastic mitigation roadmaps aligned with science
Ensuring comparability and transparency in progress tracking

This work draws inspiration from approaches like the Net Zero Initiative, where action types (e.g., reduction vs. compensation) are treated distinctly but collectively contribute to a company’s overall impact.

What Comes Next

Setting reduction targets per intervention type is the logical next step to help companies:

Define credible pathways to leakage reduction
Align with global goals (e.g., the UN Treaty)
Avoid over-reliance on end-of-pipe or compensation-only actions

This work will be prioritized in PFN’s 2025-2026 agenda and developed in close collaboration with PFN members and partners.

Help optimize the framework

Organizations interested in adding their voice to development of the target setting framework and/or demonstrating leadership as pilot users of the framework, are encouraged to get in touch.

Join the network

All individuals and organizations that are committed to using robust science and collaboration to create solutions to the plastic pollution crisis are invited to join the Plastic Footprint Network.