Eco Sphere Academy, acting as Scheme Owner, announces the publication of the Plastic Reducer Standard – Management System (PRSM) 7.0, the new version of the certification standard designed for organisations seeking to adopt a structured system for reducing single-use plastic.
Version 7.0 will enter into force on 11 September 2026 and will replace the Plastic Free Standard – Management System – 6 (PFS-S-6). The full text of the standard is now available, marking the beginning of the transition period during which Certification Bodies and the organisations involved will be able to adapt to the new methodological framework.
PRSM 7.0 represents a comprehensive revision of the standard, developed around three main objectives:
aligning its structure with the leading international management system frameworks;
strengthening the verifiability and traceability of achieved plastic reductions;
moving beyond an annual approach in favour of a continuous improvement model based on a three-year cycle.
The name of the standard has also evolved, from Plastic Free to Plastic Reducer, to more accurately reflect an approach based on measurement and the progressive reduction of environmental impacts.
The most significant elements introduced by the new version include:
a modular structure based on three-year cycles, more consistent with management system standards;
a more rigorous definition of the organisational and operational boundaries covered by certification;
the transition from a Reduction Plan to a Reduction Project, based on the verification of actions actually implemented rather than actions merely planned;
the introduction of the To Be Reduced List (TBRL), allowing for more transparent management of the items targeted for reduction;
an updated verification system, including non-conformities and the criteria used to assign grades;
strengthened procedures for risk management, complaints, corrective actions, and measures relating to suspension or withdrawal.
PRSM 7.0 has also been designed to serve as the methodological prerequisite for the forthcoming Plastic Emissions Reduction Quantification Standard (PERQS), expanding the reporting and recognition opportunities associated with the reductions achieved by certified organisations.
During the transition period, the supporting documents completing the scheme framework will be published progressively.
To support the implementation of the new requirements, Eco Sphere Academy will organise dedicated update webinars for accredited Certification Bodies and scheme operators.
Download the Plastic Reducer Standard – Management System (PRSM) 7.0
Attachments
Download the Certification Agreement between the Certification Body and the Organisation
