Why in News: World Environment Day 2025 focused on “Ending Plastic Pollution”, highlighting the urgent need for global action as plastic production has crossed 500 million tonnes annually and waste is projected to triple by 2060 if unchecked.
How Serious is the Crisis?
- Rising production: Plastic output doubled from 2000–2019, reaching 460 million tonnes; waste generation at 353 million tonnes (OECD).
- Short lifespan: Two-thirds of plastic waste lasts <5 years; 40% from packaging.
- Poor recycling: Only 9% recycled, 19% incinerated, 50% landfilled, 22% unmanaged.
- Future projections: Waste may triple to 1.2 billion tonnes by 2060.
- Marine impact: 11 million tonnes enter oceans annually; by mid-century, plastic may outnumber fish.
- Climate link: Plastics contribute 3.4% of GHG emissions, may account for 19% of global carbon budget by 2040.
Why is it a Grave Problem?
- Non-biodegradable: Breaks into micro/nano-plastics, contaminating soil, water, and food chains.
- Ecological damage: Threatens marine biodiversity and ecosystem services.
- Human health risk: Micro-plastics found in human blood, lungs, and placenta.
- Economic costs: Burden on waste management systems and tourism-dependent economies.
Role of Governments
- International agreements: Legally binding UN treaty to end plastic pollution (2022).
- Policy tools: Ban/restrict single-use plastics, landfill/incineration taxes, deposit-refund schemes.
- Producer responsibility: Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for collection & recycling.
- Boost recycling markets: Incentives for recycled plastics, investment in technology.
Role of Individuals
- Reduce use: Avoid single-use plastics; adopt cloth/jute alternatives.
- Segregate waste: Household-level sorting for recycling.
- Adopt traditional practices: Revival of eco-friendly materials (earthenware, banana leaves).
- Awareness & activism: Support campaigns, influence consumption choices.
Conclusion
Plastic pollution is a systemic crisis linked to consumption, production, and governance. Collective action by governments, industries, and individuals is essential to avert a future where oceans hold more plastic than fish.
UPSC Relevance
GS-III (Environment): Pollution, waste management, climate change linkages.
Mains Practice Question
Q.Plastic pollution is as much a governance challenge as it is an environmental one. Discuss the roles of governments and individuals in tackling the crisis.