Plastic is now embedded in nearly every aspect of modern life — from packaging and construction to transportation and textiles. Yet, while our dependency has grown, our systems for managing plastic waste have not kept pace. Research by Geyer et al (2017) shows that global plastic production soared from 2 million tonnes in 1950 to 9.49 billion tonnes by 2019. Alarmingly, over 65 per cent of all plastic ever made was produced in the past two decades alone.

This growth is primarily driven by industrial expansion and global consumerism. In 2019 alone, packaging waste accounted for 142.6 million tonnes — 37 per cent of total plastic waste. The building and construction industry followed with 76.9 million tonnes, then transportation (62.2 million), consumer products (46.7 million), and textiles (43.9 million). Even marginal sectors — like marine coatings and personal care — contribute significantly. Tackling plastic pollution, therefore, requires targeted, industry-specific interventions with an emphasis on high-impact sectors like packaging and construction.

Oceans on the brink

Nowhere are the consequences more devastating than in the oceans. Marine ecosystems are being overwhelmed by mismanaged plastic waste. OECD data shows the disparities across regions. In Africa, the average mismanaged plastic waste per capita is 0.06 kg annually, though countries like Liberia (0.53 kg) and Cameroon (0.41 kg) highlight local vulnerabilities.

Asia presents a more serious situation, averaging 0.17 kg per capita. The Philippines (3.30 kg) and Malaysia (2.29 kg) rank among the highest global contributors due to coastal populations, weak waste systems, and rapid urbanisation. North America, with an average of 0.12 kg, sees significant leakage in the Caribbean — Trinidad and Tobago (2.55 kg) and Panama (1.23 kg). Europe, in contrast, averages just 0.0078 kg, reflecting robust waste management. Globally, the average annual mismanaged plastic entering oceans stands at 0.127 kg per capita. This isn’t just an ecological problem — it’s an equity issue, where poorer and developing nations bear the brunt of plastic pollution.

Addressing the crisis requires action on several fronts. High-income nations, while generating less mismanaged waste per capita, must help build waste infrastructure in vulnerable countries. Small Island Developing States (SIDS) need targeted support — both financial and technological — to mitigate marine plastic pollution.

Industries like packaging, textiles, and construction must be guided by regulations or incentives towards biodegradable and recyclable alternatives. Tools like Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), circular economy frameworks, and single-use plastic bans must move from theory to enforceable global standards.

Public awareness is key — but guilt-driven messaging is insufficient. We need education and civic engagement to drive lasting behavioural change. Policy must go hand-in-hand. Trade frameworks like the EU’s CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism) should evolve beyond mere carbon tariffs.

To be effective, global strategies must incorporate not just carbon pricing but enforceable standards for plastic production, waste management, and pollution accountability. Technology transfers and international cooperation are essential so that environmental burdens are not shifted across borders but collectively reduced.

The writer is an Assistant Professor at the Symbiosis Institute of International Business, Pune. Views are personal

Published on June 11, 2025