RT null T1 A Qualitative Study on Risks and Opportunities of Plastic Credit Financing Instruments being Introduced into the Informal Waste Management Sector - Executive Summary A1 United Nations Environment Programme, A2 Chrysler, Julie A2 Garaycochea, Adrian A2 Jäger, Christina A2 Münchau, Konstantin K1 plastic waste K1 marine pollution K1 waste management K1 environmental financing K1 credit K1 financial instrument K1 Southeast Asia YR 2022 FD 2022 LK https://wedocs.unep.org/handle/20.500.11822/42028 UL https://wedocs.unep.org/handle/20.500.11822/42028 NO This document examines how plastic credit schemes may impact waste workers and recycling systems in Southeast Asia. Produced under the SEA circular initiative by UNEP and COBSEA, the study investigates how these market-based instruments used to compensate for plastic waste can bring both benefits and challenges to informal waste collectors. Based on literature review and interviews across six countries, the study identifies key risks such as income inequality, exclusion due to rigid standards, and overreliance on voluntary funding. At the same time, it outlines opportunities for improved livelihoods, gender inclusion, and better data for policy-making. The document recommends aligning plastic credit schemes with local realities, ensuring inclusive stakeholder participation, and embedding social safeguards. It calls for plastic credits to complement—not replace—systemic waste reduction strategies and highlights the need for international regulation. DS UN Environment Document Repository RD Sep 23, 2026