Earthaction says plastic waste generated has ‘surged’

This milestone highlights the escalating challenge of plastic pollution, with each passing year edging closer to a “tipping point”. 

The report reveals that despite marginal improvements in global waste management practices, the sheer volume of plastic waste generated has surged unabated.  

From 205,948 kilotonnes in 2021, the projected figure for 2024 stands at 220,606 kilotonnes, indicating an upward trajectory. 

United Kingdom 

The UK’s overshoot day is 8 December, and its mismanaged waste index stands at 6.03%, indicating a “concerning” level of mismanagement. 

In 2024, the world is projected to endure 117 days of plastic overshoot, with the UK contributing approximately 10 hours and 54 minutes to this overshoot.  

Despite a relatively low Mismanaged Waste Index, the UK annually produces a substantial amount of plastic waste, totalling 4,067,092 tonnes. High per capita plastic waste production, at 60 kg per person annually, further exacerbates the issue. 

According to the report 12.7% of the UK’s plastic waste is exported, amounting to 516,657 tons which results in 46,323 tonnes of microplastics polluting waterways.  

Conversely, the report highlights that the country imports 96,026 tonnes of plastic, constituting 2.4% of its total waste and contributing 1,039 tonnes of chemical additives pollution. 

To mitigate plastic pollution and postpone Plastic Overshoot Day, the report recommendations for the UK include reducing plastic consumption and transitioning towards circular practices.  

Global 

According to the report, countries worldwide grapple with varying capacities to handle their plastic waste, with some nations outstripping others in waste management infrastructure. It highlights that a total of approximately 69.5 million tonnes of plastic waste is anticipated to be mismanaged globally this year, posing a grave threat to ecosystems and human health. 

The report shows that Oman’s per capita mismanaged plastic waste is projected at a 111 kg per person in 2024 – which is 30 times higher than that of Norway. Moreover, 31.5% of plastic waste globally is expected to end up mismanaged, posing a significant risk of pollution, particularly in marine environments. 

The “intricate web” of global plastic waste trade further exacerbates the crisis, with some nations exporting and importing vast quantities of plastic waste. Slovenia emerges as the largest waste exporter, while Norway is the biggest net exporter. 

To find out more about changes in the sector, visit the National Letsrecycle.com Conference on 6 June at QEII Centre in London. To book tickets to attend or for more information please click here.