B Corp-certified Bank Australia has unveiled their ‘Pay with purpose, not virgin plastic’ campaign to spotlight a new recycled plastic bank card made of 64 per cent reclaimed ocean plastics, in partnership with global environmental organisation Parley for the Oceans.
Released during Biodiversity Month, the campaign brings attention to the threat of plastic pollution to our environment. It aims to highlight the small choices consumers can make to contribute to a healthier planet and create lasting change.
It’s part of the customer-owned bank’s commitment to its 300,000 customers, which are also its owners.
“Our campaign started with some pretty confronting statistics: there are an estimated 171 trillion particles of plastic currently in our oceans. That’s roughly 21,000 for every person on Earth. And the problem is doubling every six years. These numbers beg the question: by 2050, will there be more plastic in the ocean than fish? We know our customers deeply care about plastic pollution – in fact 95 per cent expressed moderate or extreme concern in a recent survey – and we wanted to do something meaningful,” Bank Australia’s head of brand Nicole Hunter told B&T.
“That kicked off a multi-year journey to find the best product we could, partnering with likeminded organisations who share our values, including Parley for the Oceans, and global card manufacturer G+D. We know this card alone won’t solve the plastic crisis, but we hope it sparks broader industry action and encourages others to explore more sustainable alternatives,” she added.
“We’re reaching customers through a mix of channels, but the heart of the campaign is storytelling – showing the scale of the plastic problem and how this card is one small but meaningful step toward change. We’ve focused on outdoor, digital and owned channels to start, including street furniture and rail, paid social, web, email and in-app messaging.
We’re also working with partners and influencers to help amplify the message and reach audiences who are passionate about protecting nature and biodiversity. It’s not just about awareness – it’s about sparking action. Whether that’s choosing the recycled card, thinking differently about plastic, or encouraging others to do the same, we want people to feel like they’re part of something bigger,” she added.
Parley for the Oceans has worked on global projects with the UN, Adidas, and MLS.
Bank Australia has a 2035 net zero commitment and a Clean Energy Home Loan that rewards customers with reduced rates for owning green homes.
Bank Australia has also ceased car loans for new fossil fuel vehicles.
Credits:
Bank Australia | B Corp
Creative agency: Silver Lining Agency | B Corp
Content agency: Good&Proper | B Corp
Communications and influencer agency: Compass Studio | B Corp
Card manufacturer: Gieseke+Devrient with Parley for the Oceans
