Insights Into Global Plastic Pollution Scenario: Present Status and Future Directions

Articles in Press

Document Type : Review Article

Authors

Water Research Lab, Institute of Environmental Science University of Rajshahi, Rajshahi 6205, Bangladesh

Abstract

Global plastic pollution is a crucial environmental challenge of the 21st century. The study aims to illustrate the global plastic pollution scenario, including the present status and future directions. Data published in various books, reports, and peer-reviewed journals within the last decade were considered in this review. The study found that the global plastic production has increased from less than 2 million tonnes in 1950 to over 430 million tonnes in 2024, with nearly 70% of total plastic waste still disposed of in landfills, incinerated, or leaked into the open environment. Polyethylene (26.2%), polypropylene (19%), and polyvinyl chloride (12.8%) dominate global production, while bio-based plastics account for only 0.7%. The global average plastic waste generation is 28 kg per capita per year, with 8.8 kg mismanaged per capita per year. Packaging materials alone contribute 155.9 million tonnes (39%) of total waste annually. It was observed that plastic debris in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems poses severe ecological, economic, and health hazards. Persistent polymers, such as polyvinyl chloride, Polyurethane, and polyacrylonitrile, exhibit high hazard scores, releasing toxic and carcinogenic compounds. Meanwhile, microplastics have become ubiquitous in water, air, soil, and human body. Developing countries face the highest burden of reducing plastic pollution due to inadequate waste management infrastructure. These findings highlight the need for a transition toward circular economy, emphasizing recycling, material recovery, and biodegradable alternatives. Strong policy interventions, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), scientific research, and international cooperation are vital to mitigating plastic pollution and achieving environmental sustainability in the 21st century.

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Main Subjects

Sustainable Earth Trends

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 05 May 2026

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