The story of Plastic Bank
The story of Plastic Bank began on May 9, 2013, when our Founder and CEO, David Katz, envisioned a world where discarded plastic could drive positive change.
David understood that most plastic waste leaking into our environment comes from areas of poverty. To solve pollution, he had to look upstream and help end poverty. He started by launching the first Plastic Bank branch in Haiti. What began as a bold idea is now a reality that empowers underserved communities across Indonesia, the Philippines, Brazil, Egypt, Thailand, and Cameroon to transform plastic waste into currency, providing income and social benefits.
“I think the real gift of that day was the realization that I didn't need to create Plastic Bank. I needed to become the person who could. It was really a spiritual day of awakening for me. There was a still, quiet voice, unattached to outcome and meaning. It was a space that said: You can become the person who makes a change in the world.”
– David Katz, on the moment he conceived Plastic Bank.
Our founders
David Katz
Our Founder & CEO, David Katz, talks about the spark that ignited his passion for change.
His story teaches us that it's not about knowing it all, but about committing to become someone who can make a difference.
It’s up to us to enliven a wasteless world.
Shaun Frankson
Our Co-Founder and CTO, Shaun Frankson, shares the humble beginnings of Plastic Bank, where passion and determination ignited a collaborative journey for people and companies to save our ocean.