Between 2000 and 2019, the production of plastic materials doubled, rather than decreasing. We went from 234 to 460 million tons. This is stated in the OECD report, drawn up by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, according to which at this rate – the global production and use of plastic materials will reach 736 million tonnes by 2040, an increase of 70%. % compared to 435 Mt in 2020. –
What about recycled plastic? Well, according to the report it will continue to produce only 6% of all plastics produced in 2040. As if that wasn’t enough, a 38% increase in mismanaged waste and 50% plastic losses in the environment are expected by the same date.
Partial measures taken to reduce plastic pollution are not enough to reverse the trend. Also because demand remains high in OECD countries, and in emerging economies in Asia, sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America, it is growing rapidly.
But then how to get out of it? By adopting comprehensive and rigorous policies in all countries, intervening on both production and demand, while improving recycling and relocalization pathways.
Governments, for their part, should commit to – slowing down plastic flows and promoting eco-design -, supporting ecological waste management, and implementing targeted interventions to mitigate the risks due to microplastic and plastic pollution.
In short, there is still a long way to go.
SOURCE: OECD
