Knowledge Resource Library
In this section you will find a variety of different materials all about the topic of plastic and its impacts on the environment, our health, and society in general. There are also resources on creating a different kind of world, without single use plastic and based on zero waste principles.
You can use the search and filters provided to find the information you need. All materials are in the public domain and may be freely downloaded and used without alteration. However please be sure to give the creators proper credit if sharing with others!
The library is updated regularly: if you have any suggestions for it, please contact us.
Plastics crisis: challenges, advances and relationship with wastepickers.
An illustrated booklet by GAIA that highlights plastic crisis, false solutions, and acknowledgment of the historical contributions made by waste pickers.
Monitor compartments, mitigate sectors: A framework to deconstruct the complexity of plastic pollution
A journal by The 5 Gyres Institute discussed the complexity of plastic pollution necessitates a sector-based framework for upstream design, rather than relying solely on downstream solutions.
Forever Toxic: The science on health threats from plastic recycling
A Greenpeace report that emphasizes the urgent need to reconsider the role of plastics in the circular economy and advocates for sustainable alternatives.
Food Packaging and Human Health
Food Packaging Forum’s Fachsheet on food packaging and human health.
Multimaterial Food Packaging
Food Packaging Forum’s Fachsheet on multimaterial food packaging.
Plastic Fake Out – Bioplastic infographic from Surfrider Europe
Infographic by Surfrider Europe that exposes the misconceptions and challenges surrounding bioplastics, highlighting their limited environmental benefits and potential harm.
Back to Earth: Composting For Various Contexts
The report by GAIA offers guidance on several composting styles and organic waste management.
Unilever X-Files: Planet, Society & Sachets
Factsheets by Break Free From Plastic, aims to debunk myths and dispel misinformation surrounding sachets, particularly by Unilever in Indonesia, India, and Philippine, providing insights into the negative consequences it has had on the environment and society.
A Guidebook for Cities and Municipalities Faced With Incinerator Proposals
Guidebook by GAIA provides insight into potential effects of waste incineration on the environment, health, and society. It serves as an extensive tool for local governments aiming to make informed choices regarding waste management while avoiding the adverse outcomes associated with incineration.
The Economics of Reuse Systems
A report by Searious Business and Zero Waste Europe focuses on three packaging categories in Spain considering an open loop system (so not within one location). These categories include takeaway food containers, secondary transport packaging, and beverage bottles.
How Circular is PET?
Zero Waste Europe’s report providing an analysis of the current circularity of Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles in Europe. The report examines the collection and recycling rates of PET bottles, as well as the utilization of recycled PET in new bottles.
zero waste to zero emissions
GAIA’s report that emphasizing the crucial role of improved waste management in the battle against climate change. It highlights how effective waste management not only enhances resilience but also generates employment opportunities and stimulates the growth of local economies.
Under Wraps: What Europe’s Supermarket Aren’t Telling Us About Plastic
A report by Changing Market Foundation presents a comprehensive analysis and findings related to reducing plastic waste and promoting sustainable packaging practices.
Restaurant Guide To Reducing Plastics
The document offers practical advice and strategies for restaurants to minimize plastic usage and adopt sustainable practices.
Plastic The Hidden Beauty Ingredient
The report by Plastic Soup exposes the presence of harmful microplastics in personal care products and their impact on the environment and human health.
PROBLEM PLASTIC: How Polyester and PET Plastic Can be Unsafe, Unjust, and Unsustainable Materials
Defend Our Health’s report investigates the impacts of one of the most widely-used plastics, known as PET (for polyethyleneterephthalate) and as “polyester” in its fiber form.
Dari Hulu ke HIlir: Persepsi dan Pengelolaan Sampah di KSN Mamminasata
Investigative research related to the perception and management of waste in the Mamminasata area by WALHI Sulawesi Selatan – in Bahasa Indonesia.
Bumi Tanpa Plastik
A Greenpeace’s report on public perception and demands against corporate contributions in environmental issues and plastic waste in Indonesia.