At Earth Action, we collaborate with global experts who turn cutting-edge science into real-world sustainability tools. One of them is Dr. Elena Corella Puertas, a chemical engineer, educator, and researcher known for her pioneering work on plastic pollution and life cycle assessment (LCA). In 2025, she stepped into a new role as Chair of the Scientific Committee of the Plastic Footprint Network (PFN) – a multi-stakeholder initiative hosted by Earth Action.
In this expert spotlight, Sarah Perreard, co-CEO of Earth Action, sits down with Elena to explore her scientific journey, the evolution of plastic footprinting, and what’s next for the PFN.
From Research to Real-World Action
Sarah Perreard: Elena, what drew you to focus so deeply on plastic pollution?
Elena Corella Puertas: It’s a uniquely complex challenge—spanning macroplastics, microplastics, nanoplastics, and chemical additives. But it also offers real opportunity. As a researcher, teacher, and even consumer, I believe we can all play a role in reducing plastic pollution.
Staying Grounded in Impact
Sarah: What keeps you motivated when the work feels overwhelming?
Elena: I remind myself that every contribution matters. Whether it’s a lecture, a new model, or helping a company understand their footprint, it’s all part of a collective effort.
Understanding Plastic Footprints
Sarah: What is a plastic footprint, and why should businesses care?
Elena: A plastic footprint measures the environmental and health impacts of plastic leakage across the entire life cycle of a product (or a process). It’s not just about how much plastic is used – it’s about what happens when it leaks into nature. The PFN initially focused on inventory – quantifying leakage. Now, we’ve moved into impact assessment, which allows companies to understand the potential damage caused.
The PFN Impact Module and MarILCA
Sarah: You co-led the PFN’s new Impact Module. Can you tell us more?
Elena: Yes, the Impact Module builds on models developed in MarILCA, a research initiative I’ve been part of since my postdoctoral research. MarILCA developed characterization factors that quantify the physical damage microplastics cause to ecosystems. We adapted these to make them usable by companies. Now, businesses can go from “how much is leaking?” to “what impact is it having?”
New Role at PFN
Sarah: You’ve just been appointed PFN’s Scientific Coordinator. Congratulations! What does this mean for your work?
Elena: Thank you! I’ve been part of the PFN since its creation, taking it with me from Canada to Germany. In this new role, I’ll oversee scientific integrity across all modules, expand our academic engagement, and support strategic alignment with global frameworks like CDP, TNFD, and the treaty on plastic pollution.
In 2025, I am also leading a peer-reviewed paper on the scientific definition of the plastic footprint – a key milestone for consistency and credibility in corporate disclosures.
Advice for Business and World Leaders
Sarah: What advice would you give to companies working on plastics?
Elena: Use metrics to improve, not just report. Always assess alternatives critically – just replacing plastic isn’t enough if it creates other environmental issues. Consult experts, not trends.
Sarah: And to world leaders?
Elena: The health and environmental risks of plastic pollution are urgent. Over 13,000 chemicals are used in plastics, many with unknown effects. Acting now is essential – especially to support regulation that drives innovation and accountability.
Looking Ahead
Sarah: What role do you see PFN and Earth Action playing in this space?
Elena: The PFN, hosted by Earth Action, has become a reference for plastic footprinting. With EA’s coordination and our growing network of experts, we’re uniquely positioned to support companies, policymakers, and treaty negotiators in turning ambition into measurable impact.
Want to learn more about PFN’s Impact Module or assess your plastic footprint?
Visit www.plasticfootprint.earth or contact us at contact@plasticfootprint.earth.
