Over the last few years, Germany has become a global leader in eliminating plastic pollution, which is mostly attributed to its comprehensive strategies in governance, systemic capacity, and stakeholder engagement.
Ranked highest in the Plastics Management Index (PMI) among 25 countries, Germany scores 87 out of 100 points for its sustainable practices. The country enforces stringent laws on plastic waste, incentivizes responsible business practices, and maintains robust waste management policies.
Germany’s systemic capacity includes an effective waste collection and recycling infrastructure, with a high recycling rate of 93.5 percent for PET bottles. Multi-stakeholder engagement, involving the government, private sector, and consumers, further strengthens its plastic management efforts. National initiatives, such as the five-point plan, and international commitments to reducing plastic pollution underscore Germany’s leadership.
The country’s approach is grounded in circular economy principles, promoting product longevity, reuse, and recycling. Efforts to replace single-use plastics and ban certain items highlight its dedication to reducing environmental impact.
Despite challenges like downcycling and data accuracy, Germany continues to innovate and adjust policies to maintain its leadership in sustainable plastic management.
Within our .earth web domain tribe, we have several organizations based in Germany working towards a more plastic-free and sustainable planet, including:
- CRC.Earth: This organization strengthens the use of recyclates throughout the value chain and provides participating companies with a tool to meet their climate protection obligations. Learn more here.
- Pro.Earth: A German-based publication, Pro.Earth focuses on the environmental news including plastics issues. Learn more here.
- Nuvi.Earth: NUVI is a material innovator specializing in scalable, plastic-free and 100 percenr bio-based coated textiles. These materials are produced roll-to-roll in Germany and made exclusively from regionally available plants and minerals. Learn more here.
Are you a German-based company working on eliminating plastic pollution? The .earth web domain is ideal for enhancing your brands and communicating your mission of creating a safer planet by discontinuing the use of microplastics.
To learn more about the .earth domain, visit Voices.Earth. In addition, many organizations and individuals are sharing their voices about the benefits of a .earth domain in our Voices.Earth podcast series.
