The Plastics Solutions Alliance (PSA) is a coalition leveraging private sector and development funding, between Mercy Corps, USAID, KOICA, the European Union, Heineken, and Caltech General Contracting, which seeks to reach ‘plastic neutrality’ in Timor-Leste. The objectives of the PSA are to minimize the use and improper disposal of plastic, which induces the risk of natural disasters and climate change, and to establish a competitive recycling value chain, which will expand Timor-Leste’s small manufacturing base, bring a measure of diversification to an oil-dependent economy, and provide sustainable employment and entrepreneurship opportunities. This cross-sector partnership simultaneously engages businesses, works with the government to inspire policy reform, raises awareness to drive social/behavior change, and provides the infrastructure for civil society to participate.
