PlasticFree, a pro-business solution for designers and marketers looking for plastic-free, sustainable alternatives, has launched a free program, “PlasticFree Forever,” to empower students to combat global plastic pollution.
The program, which is funded by Ancestors of Tomorrow, provides human-validated case studies, proof points, and instruction on regenerative materials. PlasticFree wants to provide students with the information they need to develop plastic-free goods from the start by connecting them directly to a curated library of plastic-free materials.
PlasticFree Forever digital initiative is providing 250 design students with the chance to become “pioneers in sustainable product development.” Students have until April 5 to apply for admission to PlasticFree forever. Those who are chosen will have “unprecedented forever access” to the platform of solutions that aims to empower and educate designers and brand owners to accelerate the development of plastic-free solutions.
There is a clear connection between the project and the annual production of about 500 million metric tonnes of plastic for a wide range of uses. More than 16,000 compounds included in plastic items have been identified by scientists as potentially harmful to both human health and the environment. PlasticFree was founded in 2023 at the World Economic Forum in Davos and already runs in more than 23 countries. Its founding design and science council includes design and business experts such as Alexandra Deschamps-Sonsino, chief design officer of the Design Council, Sir Tim Smit, co-founder of the Eden Project, Thomas Heatherwick, and Sir David Chipperfield.
The program’s digital format allows for accessibility and scalability, ensuring that students from diverse backgrounds can participate and benefit from its resources. Through this initiative, PlasticFree and Ancestors of Tomorrow are investing in the future, empowering young designers to become catalysts for change and drive the transition towards a sustainable future.
