David Katz

David Katz is a visionary entrepreneur, humanitarian, and global thought leader redefining prosperity through Plastic Bank, a social fintech that transforms plastic waste into wealth. Driven by the belief that revealing value in waste can end human suffering and environmental degradation, he pioneered a solution that addresses two of the world’s most pressing challenges—poverty and plastic pollution.
Under his leadership, Plastic Bank has empowered over 50,000 families across the Philippines, Indonesia, Brazil, Egypt, Thailand, and Cameroon, enabling them to exchange plastic for income and life-improving benefits. The initiative has facilitated the collection of over 150 million kilos of plastic, preventing it from polluting the environment while fostering economic opportunity. Through this model, individuals and businesses alike are empowered to participate in a circular economy that promotes both sustainability and social impact.
David’s humanitarian work has earned international recognition, including the United Nations Lighthouse Award for Planetary Health, the Paris Climate Conference Sustainia Community Award, the Ernst & Young Lifetime Achievement Award, The Globe and Mail’s Changemakers Award, and the Entrepreneur Organization’s Global Citizen Award. His insights on environmental and social innovation have been featured on BBC, CNN, Time Magazine, Forbes, Fast Company, Business Week, and National Geographic.
Frequently referred to as a steward of the earth and a champion for the underserved, he continues to inspire businesses, governments, and individuals to rethink waste, embrace circularity, and create scalable solutions for a more prosperous world.