Recognising the Earth Day 2024 theme of Planet vs. Plastics, ICT company Acer has united with social enterprise Plastic Bank to collect and recycle at least 50 tonnes of plastic waste from the environment.
Acer projects that the partnership will prevent the equivalent of more than 2.5 million plastic bottles from entering the oceans through the efforts of collection members in Southeast Asia.
Plastic Bank members bring their collected plastic to collection branches in exchange for the local market price of the gathered material, as well as bonuses that help provide additional income and access to social benefits, like meal vouchers, health insurance, and more.
The enterprise has previously partnered with household goods manufacturer SC Johnson and pharmaceutical firm Horus Pharma.
Acer’s collaboration with Plastic Bank supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) including SDG 1 for no poverty, SDG 8 for decent work and economic growth, SDG 12 for responsible consumption and production, SDG 14 for life below water, and SDG 17 for partnership.
Acer’s ESG goals also include adapting 20-30% post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic content in computers and displays by 2025 and working towards the goal of net zero emissions by 2050.
Acer has been making strides to incorporate PCR versions of the plastic types used in electronic consumer products with its eco-conscious Vero line and the launch of its first carbon-neutral PC, the Acer Aspire Vero 16, in December 2023.