THE BIG PLASTIC COUNT IS BACK FOR 2026!
We’re currently working behind the scenes, getting ready to kick off an exciting new era for The Big Plastic Count as we embark on a 4-year project funded by The National Lottery Community Fund.
We believe that the conversation around plastic and how the crisis is communicated needs reframing, and we want The Big Plastic Count to be a vehicle to bring forward new stories and new storytellers.
We'll also use the campaign to explore the impact that plastic has throughout its life cycle – on the climate, our health, and on the most vulnerable members of our society.
More updates to follow, including the date of the next Count in March 2026. Don’t miss the announcement – sign up to our mailing list to be the first to hear.
Watch our 2024 RESULTS VIDEO
FAQs
How do you work out my footprint?
Once we have a school or household’s count results, we apply national data on different types of plastic to calculate how much, on average, would be collected for recycling, what’s then likely to happen to it, and what that means for your footprint.
What is the Global Plastics Treaty?
Right now, world leaders are negotiating The Global Plastics Treaty; an international legal agreement to prevent the harmful impacts of plastic. This United Nations Treaty is a once-in-a-generation chance to protect our planet from plastic pollution. The UK Government needs to push for this Treaty to be as strong and ambitious as possible.
What if we use a lot of plastic?
Please remember, this isn't about feeling guilty about the amount of plastic you use! Too much single-use plastic is produced and there aren't reusable alternatives that suit everyone's needs. Together we’re gathering the evidence needed to push for proper action on plastic.
Testimonials
The Big Plastic Count highlights the national and world plastic problem, inspiring schools to take decisive action using their fantastic resources to embed into the children's learning. It has taught every child and adult at our school that however big or small everyone can do their bit to make an impact on our world. This is why we will be taking part again in The Big Plastic Count!
Edd Moore
Damers First School
The Big Plastic Count 2022 was the start of a very exciting journey for our school! We can’t wait to refuel our participation in such a great cause by taking part in March 2024, with a fresh new cohort of new, more environmentally aware modern minds.
Rebecca Razzaque
Kenmore Park Junior School
Our year 8 class really enjoyed The Big Plastic Count. There is something quite powerful about having to count your week’s plastic waste and consider what happens to it next. A well set up campaign that is easy to run and fits in well with our lessons. We will definitely take part again.
Bernadette Wiley
Cleeve School
Having counted my plastic waste for an entire year, I know how powerful this investigation can be in helping to understand the true extent of the plastic problem. The Big Plastic Count is a simple yet impactful way to discover your household plastic footprint, whilst contributing vital evidence to push the government for long overdue change.
Daniel Webb
Founder Everyday Plastic
Consequences of the plastic crisis are disproportionately felt by poorer communities and communities of colour. We must bring an end to this injustice. Let’s push the government to take ambitious action on plastic – join The Big Plastic Count now!
Maja Darlington
Greenpeace Campaigner
It’s ridiculous that we’re still swamped with plastic waste when it makes so many of us furious. The natural world can’t cope with it, and we need to find out what’s really happening to plastic that’s supposedly recycled. That’s why I’ll be joining The Big Plastic Count – let’s do this!
Chris Packham
Wildlife TV presenter & conservationist
Everything on Planet Earth is connected so if we don’t drastically lower or eradicate our use of single-use plastics they will pollute the food we eat, the water we drink and the air we breathe. I am getting involved in The Big Plastic Count because I know as individuals we can make a difference and I want to be part of the change I long to see.
Bonnie Wright
Actor and Director