Upstream is a US-based non-profit driving change toward a robust and enduring reuse economy in the US & Canada by normalizing reuse, growing and supporting the reuse industry, and ensuring a supportive policy environment. Our work lies at the nexus of plastic pollution, climate change, and a just transition.

Ustream logo in black and white

Reuse is a climate solution

The greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) causing climate change result from a fossil fuel-based “take-make-waste” extractive economy. Rethinking the supply chain for packaging must be a climate goal to put us on track to achieve net-zero emissions.

total current emissions graphic

Renewable energy addresses only 55% of UN climate goals. The remaining 45% hinges on transforming how we produce, consume, and dispose of consumable goods, emphasizing the crucial role of reuse solutions.

Reuse reduces plastic production & cuts carbon

Efficient, scalable reuse systems can eliminate 75% of plastic packaging production—which generates 4 times more GHG emissions than the airline industry—and 70% of those emissions, compared to single-use. 

Reuse remedies false solutions like compostables, which contribute to the methane in landfills that drives 30% of global temperature rise.

Reuse helps prevent plastic incineration, which causes more GHG emissions than other fossil fuels.

Line graph comparing carbon footprint reduction of different reusable cups over number of uses, with a horizontal line indicating the carbon footprint of a disposable cup.

How does reuse slow global climate change?

By reimagining the value chain

Reusable products and packaging means a significant reduction in raw materials harvested, a massive reduction in GHG emissions from transportation, and a near elimination of items sent to landfills and incinerators. For example, this coffee cup scenario shows reuse cuts carbon emissions by 79% across the value chain. 

Infographic showing the climate impact of single-use versus reusable coffee cups. The impact increases with disposable cups, reaching 119,502 metric tons CO2e, while reusable cups reduce impact over time to 25,095 metric tons CO2e, even when accounting for dishwashing.
Map of a neighborhood highlighting locations where reusable foodware and packaging is used, like restaurants and grocery stores, with additional markers locating drop off and washing stations, with electric trucks running between the locations.

Reuse builds community resilience in the face of climate change. 

Localized reuse economies build climate resiliency by decoupling us from a volatile global supply chain.

Upstream Policy Institute, Inc. (DBA Upstream®) is a private, 501(c)(3) non-profit public benefit corporation, with tax ID #43-2038678. Donations are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law.