The amount of plastic waste generated worldwide is projected to triple by 2060, to surpass *********** metric tons. This dramatic growth is set to be fueled by rising populations and economic growth. With so much plastic waste generated, proper waste management will be urgently needed to reduce environmental impact. However, projections show that landfilling will continue to be the main disposal method worldwide by 2060, with recycling accounting for less than ** percent. Much of the plastic waste generated over the coming **** decades will be caused by packaging.

Global plastic waste generation increased seven-fold between 1980 and 2019, reaching *** million metric tons in the latter year. Packaging was consistently the main source of plastic waste during this period, reaching *** million metric tons in 2019. Plastic waste is a major environmental issue around the world, with huge quantities leaking into marine ecosystems.

The dataset contains year- and state-wise compiled data on the quantity of plastic waste generated in India.

Note:

The CPCB compiles and publishes the annual data about plastic waste based on the same data provided by states. Several of the states have not reported plastic waste generated data from the year 2010-11 to 2017-18. Therefore, the dataset has not given All India figures of the Plastic Waste generated during the same years

This statistic displays the plastic waste volume worldwide in 2015, and a forecast figure for 2050. In 2015, global plastic waste volume reached around 6.3 billion metric tons. This figure is expected to increase to 12 billion metric tons by 2050.

Here we provide a per-country results summary spreadsheet and high resolution global maps of total and mismanaged plastic waste generation as presented in Lebreton and Andrady (2019, https://www.nature.com/articles/s41599-018-0212-7). LebretonAndrady2019_SummaryDatasheet.xlsxSummary results for the 188 countries investigated in the study. The file contains three tabs for lower, midpoint and higher estimate for plastic waste generation as well as an additional tab for per-country waste statistics and population + GDP forecast used by the predictive model. The highlighted cells in the Country Statistics tab are model predicted values where data was not available.LebretonAndrady2019_TotalPlasticWaste.tifTotal municipal plastic waste generation in kg.y-1 in 2015, computed on a global 30 by 30 arc seconds resolution grid.LebretonAndrady2019_MismanagedPlasticWaste.tifMismanaged Plastic Waste (MPW) generation in kg.y-1 in 2015, computed on a global 30 by 30 arc seconds resolution grid.Updated: -fixed negative waste generation values-removed rounding issues from .tiff file compression

In 2025, the per capita plastic waste volume in Hong Kong was estimated to amount to around *** kilograms. Singapore had the second-highest per capita plastic waste volume in the Asia-Pacific region that year, an estimated ** kilograms. Waste production and waste trade Plastic waste is a global issue, with plastic waste generation projected to triple by 2060. Currently, the Asia-Pacific region accounts for over half of the global production of plastic materials. In addition to locally generated plastic waste in the region, many countries in South and Southeast Asia are major destinations for plastic waste exports from Europe and the United States. Malaysia and Vietnam in particular import the highest volume of plastic waste among Asia-Pacific countries. How to deal with waste? Next to the sheer volume of plastics and plastic waste in the region, inadequate collection and processing infrastructures of waste are the main drivers of plastic pollution in many APAC countries. For example, while India's official per-capita waste generation is below the global average, this number is estimated to be significantly higher. The discrepancy stems from a lack of waste collection and a booming informal sector, leading to almost half of the generated plastic waste in India being mismanaged in its treatment. Countries like Japan and South Korea are also still generating large amounts of single plastics and are seeking to tackle the issue of managing the waste volume. Efforts of the countries’ respective governments have led to increasing recycling rates over the last couple of years, with both countries currently positioned at the lower end of the Mismanaged Waste Index for plastic in the Asia-Pacific region.

This dataset has an article on plastics that make their way into the ocean and data on plastics and other waste in the Pacific Island region.

This database is the supplementary material for the scientific paper in preparation: Mismanaged plastic waste as a predictor for plastic pollution along the Odaw river. This database comprises of a one year field monitoring data (December 2021-December 2022) focusing on macroplastic transport and density in the Odaw catchment, Accra, Ghana. Data was collected across three environmental compartments (river, riverbank, and land) at 10 spatial points along the catchment. Anthropogenic variables such as population density and mismanaged plastic waste, as well as hydro meteorological variables including rainfall, wind speed, and discharge, were also quantified for analysis.

Disposable Plastic Waste Market Outlook

The global disposable plastic waste market size was estimated to be USD 32.8 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach USD 47.1 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.2% during the forecast period. This market growth is primarily driven by increasing awareness of plastic pollution and stringent government regulations aimed at reducing plastic waste.

A significant driver for the growth of the disposable plastic waste market is the rising consumer awareness regarding environmental conservation. With growing information dissemination through various platforms about the detrimental effects of plastic waste on marine and terrestrial ecosystems, the demand for sustainable waste management solutions is on the rise. Additionally, several non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and environmental activists are playing a crucial role in educating the public and pushing for stricter regulations on plastic use, thereby boosting market growth.

Technological advancements in waste management and recycling processes are also contributing to the market expansion. Innovations such as advanced sorting technologies, chemical recycling, and biodegradable plastics are improving the efficiency of plastic waste management systems. These technologies not only enhance the recycling rates but also reduce the overall environmental footprint of plastic disposal, making waste management processes more sustainable and economically viable.

Furthermore, government policies and regulations are pivotal in propelling the market. Several countries have implemented bans on single-use plastics, introduced plastic taxes, and set ambitious recycling targets. For instance, the European Union has set a goal to recycle at least 55% of plastic packaging waste by 2030. Such regulatory frameworks are compelling industries to adopt greener practices and invest in sustainable packaging solutions, thereby driving the market forward.

Plastic Waste Bins play a crucial role in the effective management of disposable plastic waste. These bins are essential tools in both residential and commercial settings, providing a designated space for the collection and segregation of plastic waste. By encouraging the use of dedicated bins for plastic waste, communities can improve recycling rates and reduce contamination in waste streams. The availability of plastic waste bins in public spaces, offices, and homes facilitates better waste management practices, ensuring that plastic waste is properly sorted and directed towards recycling facilities. This not only aids in reducing the environmental footprint of plastic waste but also supports the circular economy by enabling the reuse of materials.

In terms of regional outlook, Asia Pacific holds the largest share in the disposable plastic waste market, driven by high consumption rates and growing environmental concerns in countries like China and India. North America and Europe also represent significant market shares due to stringent regulatory norms and advanced waste management infrastructure. The Middle East & Africa and Latin America are emerging markets with potential growth opportunities due to increasing urbanization and industrialization.

Product Type Analysis

The disposable plastic waste market is segmented by product type into bags, bottles, straws, cutlery, packaging, and others. Among these, plastic bags constitute a significant portion of the market due to their widespread use in retail and household applications. Single-use plastic bags are highly prevalent due to their convenience and cost-effectiveness, making them a major contributor to plastic waste. However, many regions are now imposing bans and levies on plastic bags to curb their environmental impact, which in turn is fostering the development of alternative materials.

Plastic bottles form another major segment, primarily driven by the beverage industry. The high consumption of bottled water and other beverages contributes significantly to plastic waste. Efforts are being made to improve recycling rates of plastic bottles through deposit return schemes and increased consumer awareness. Innovations in bottle design, such as the use of recycled plastics and biodegradable materials, are expected to mitigate the environmental impact of this segment.

Straws and cutlery, though smaller in volume compared to bags and bottles, are significant contri

UNIDO pub on recycling of plastics industrial wastes - covers (1) requirements, compatibility of plastics, methodologys, recycling of plastic bottles, classification (2) production of high-quality recycled materials by elimination of printing inks and disturbing ingredients (NOREC-method) (3) physical recycling methods (4) chemical methods (5) economic viability of recycling (6) environmental problems. Bibliography. Statistics, diagrams.

In 2025 China was estimated to produce the highest amount of plastic waste in the Asia-Pacific region, approximately **** million tons. In comparison, Timor-Leste was estimated to produce around **** thousand tons of plastic waste that year.

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global plastic waste management market size will be USD 37.7 billion in 2024 and will expand at CAGR of 3.3% from 2024 to 2031. Market Dynamics of Plastic Waste Management Market

Key Drivers for Plastic Waste Management Market

Increase in Different Initiatives - It is predicted that the expansion of government programs and manufacturing initiatives will pave the path for market expansion. Many food and beverage companies are concentrating on raising the percentage of recycled plastic in their bottles as part of their sustainable strategy. For instance, Coca-Cola said in July 2017 that it would triple the quantity of recycled plastic used in its bottles. Presently, recycled plastic makes up almost 25% of bottles. This will have doubled to 50% by the end of 2020. Thus, during the projected period, these factors will support market growth.
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Regulations and Partnerships.

Key Restraints for Plastic Waste Management Market

Absence of the Necessary Framework for Collection and Segregation.
Plastic Recycling Is a Pricey Process.

Introduction of the Plastic Waste Management Market

The term "plastic waste management" describes the techniques and protocols used to recycle plastic garbage as opposed to disposing of it in landfills or causing other environmental pollution. Reducing the amount of virgin plastic used in product manufacturing helps with plastic waste management. Due in large part to the rising integration of cutting-edge technologies like big data and machine learning (ML) in recycling facilities and waste management systems, the market for plastic waste management has been expanding. Furthermore, over the projected period, the growth of the global plastic waste management market is anticipated to be fueled by growing awareness of the negative environmental effects of improperly disposing of plastic trash, particularly its impact on marine habitats.

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Plastic Recycling Solutions Market Size 2024-2028

The plastic recycling solutions market size is forecast to increase by USD 25.8 billion, at a CAGR of 8.87% between 2023 and 2028.

The market is driven by growing environmental concerns, with the increasing awareness of plastic pollution and the need to reduce waste and minimize environmental impact. This trend is further fueled by the rising demand for recycled plastics, as companies and consumers seek sustainable alternatives to virgin materials. However, the market faces several challenges. First, the complexity and cost of plastic recycling processes can hinder widespread adoption. Second, the quality and consistency of recycled plastics can vary, limiting their use in certain applications. Lastly, the lack of standardization and regulation in the plastic recycling industry can create uncertainty and hinder market growth.
Companies seeking to capitalize on market opportunities must navigate these challenges by investing in research and development to improve recycling technologies, ensuring consistent quality, and advocating for standardization and regulation. By doing so, they can position themselves as leaders in the sustainable plastic solutions space and meet the growing demand for eco-friendly alternatives.

What will be the Size of the Plastic Recycling Solutions Market during the forecast period?

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2018-2022 and forecasts 2024-2028 - in the full report.
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The market continues to evolve, driven by various factors including environmental impact assessments, technological advancements, and stakeholder collaboration. Recycled plastics find applications in numerous sectors, such as electronic devices, sustainable packaging, and automotive components. Economic incentives and technology adoption are key catalysts for the market's growth. Recycling infrastructure and waste management systems undergo constant optimization to increase recycling rates and reduce plastic waste. Polystyrene (PS) and other plastic types, such as polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and high-density polyethylene (HDPE), are subjected to mechanical and advanced recycling processes. Government regulations and plastic recycling policies play a significant role in shaping market dynamics.

Artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics are increasingly adopted to enhance quality control and improve recycling process efficiency. Carbon footprint reduction is a major focus, with chemical recycling and renewable plastics gaining traction. Industry partnerships and consumer goods companies collaborate to develop innovative recycling solutions, creating opportunities for investment. Innovation in recycling technologies continues to unfold, with thermal recycling and plastic pyrolysis emerging as potential game-changers. The circular economy principle is embraced, with a shift towards pre-consumer and post-consumer recycling. Consumer behavior and public awareness are crucial elements in the market's growth trajectory. Sustainable packaging solutions and resource conservation are becoming increasingly important, driving demand for recycled plastic products.

The digital transformation is also impacting the market, with the integration of AI and data analytics in waste management systems. In summary, the market is a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape, shaped by various factors and applications across various sectors. The ongoing unfolding of market activities and evolving patterns underscore the importance of continuous innovation, collaboration, and adaptation to meet the evolving needs of a sustainable future.

How is this Plastic Recycling Solutions Industry segmented?

The plastic recycling solutions industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments.

Type

  Post-consumer recyclate
  Industrial recyclate


End-user

  Packaging
  Construction
  Automotive
  Electrical and electronic components
  Others


Geography

  North America

    US


  Europe

    Germany
    UK


  APAC

    China
    Japan


  Rest of World (ROW). 

By Type Insights

The post-consumer recyclate segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

Post-consumer recyclate, derived from plastic materials that have completed their life cycle as consumer products, is collected from various sources, including households, commercial entities, and municipal recycling programs. This recyclate undergoes a meticulous process involving sorting and separation to ensure high-quality standards. The resulting recycled plastic materials are utilized in diverse industries and applications,

In 2022, the volume of plastic waste in Japan amounted to approximately **** million tons. This represented a decrease from over **** million tons in 2013. Even though the volume of plastic waste generated in Japan decreased throughout the past decade, plastic waste pollution remains a major environmental issue. Plastic takes up to 500 years to decompose and represents a threat to the health of humans and animals when ending up in the food chain in the form of microplastic. Households generated most waste in Japan In Japan, most of the overall waste was generated by households, while business-related waste constituted a smaller amount. Plastic packaging and plastic containers made up around half of the household waste since it is commonly used for food and beverage containers and other types of packaging. With an incineration rate of municipal waste of around 75 percent, incineration represented the most widely used waste treatment method in Japan. Despite filtering technologies, the incineration process produces greenhouse gases that contribute to air pollution and global warming. In contrast, the overall recycling rate remained low at around 20 percent. Paper is becoming a common substitute for plastic As a measure to reduce plastic waste, many Japanese companies are starting to replace plastic products with paper products, especially for packaging materials. Paper poses a more sustainable alternative as it is more easily recyclable and is defined as a renewable resource since it is made from wood. Additionally, amounting to over 79 percent, paper had one of the highest recycling rates in Japan.

Agricultural activities have been positively affected by the use of plastic products, but this has resulted in the production of plastic waste and led to an increase in environmental pollution. This file concerns plastic waste indices to different crop types and plastic products allowed quantifying and georeferencing actual plastic waste production. Two improved scenarios were considered, the first consisted of extending the lifespan of some plastics, and the second entailed the introduction of some biodegradable alternatives.

The India Plastic Waste Management Market report segments the industry into By Polymer (Polypropylene (PP), Polyethylene(PE), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Terephthalate (PET), Others), By Source (Residential, Commercial, Industrial, Others (construction, healthcare etc)), and By Treatment (Recycling, Chemical Treatment, Landfill, Others). The report provides historical data and comprehensive market forecasts.

Hong Kong Imports from Hong Kong of Waste, Parings, Scrap of Plastics was US$3.33 Thousand during 2016, according to the United Nations COMTRADE database on international trade. Hong Kong Imports from Hong Kong of Waste, Parings, Scrap of Plastics - data, historical chart and statistics - was last updated on July of 2025.

Plastic waste audit in Colleges (Savaii)

The dataset includes coastal litter data acquired through voluntary environmental NGO initiatives, used to investigate the coastal pollution in Cyprus from 2014 to 2018— a period characterized by inactive national monitoring efforts, infrequent beach cleanups, and low public awareness of marine litter issues. This dataset provides the earliest documentation of coastal litter densities in Cyprus, while also underscoring the harmful and variable nature of certain types of debris. Although pollution rates were persistent over this timeframe, mainly driven by recreational activities, deliberate dumping, and sea-based transport, litter quantities declined in 2021, coinciding with behavioural changes induced by the COVID-19 pandemic.