Empower is creating a global solution to the plastic waste problem by giving plastic a value. By matching those who want to sponsor clean-ups with anyone willing to do it, we are cleaning up the world while fighting poverty. Our solution is based on the philosophy and success of the Norwegian plastic bottle deposit system (which ensures 97% of bottles being recycled). This turns the return rate of plastic waste upside down. By giving plastic a value we incentivize people to clean it up and deposit the waste instead of throwing it in nature. That way we both close the tap and clean it up. Empower has created a plastic waste fund to ensure that plastic collection is being rewarded. This fund is used to pay people who deliver plastic waste to our stations. For every batch of plastic delivered, the person is rewarded digital EMP Tokens worth $1 each.