How serious is the global plastic pollution crisis?, Pg10

Key Highlights:

• Global plastic production reached 460 million tonnes in 2019, with waste generation at 353 million tonnes.
• Only 9% of plastic waste is recycled, while 22% evades waste management systems.
• In 2024, 500 million tonnes of plastic were produced, generating 400 million tonnes of waste.
• 11 million tonnes of plastic enter the ocean annually, adding to the existing 200 million tonnes.
• Plastics contribute to 3.4% of global greenhouse gas emissions.
• The UN Environment Assembly in 2022 agreed to create a legally binding international agreement to end plastic pollution.

Detailed Insights:

• The surge in plastic pollution significantly impacts ecosystems, sustainable development, and human socio-economic and health dimensions.
• OECD’s ‘Global Plastic Outlook’ indicates that plastic consumption has increased due to the growth of emerging economies.
• If current trends continue, global plastic waste could almost triple by 2060, reaching 1.2 billion tonnes.
• The non-biodegradable nature of plastics leads to the creation of micro- and nano-plastics, contaminating various environments.
• UNEP estimates that plastic production, use, and disposal could account for 19% of the total global carbon budget by 2040.
• Reducing plastic waste by 80% within two decades requires international cooperation, innovation, and improved waste management.
• Limiting the production of plastics, especially single-use plastics, is crucial, as they are primarily made from petrochemical feedstock.
• Improving recycling technologies and creating profitable markets for recycled plastics are essential for reducing pollution.
• Implementing measures like landfill taxes and Extended Producer Responsibility schemes can incentivize recycling efforts.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Micro-plastics: Small plastic particles resulting from the breakdown of larger plastic items.
• Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): A policy approach where producers are responsible for the end-of-life management of their products.
• Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): A collection of 17 interlinked global goals designed to be a "blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all".