Recycling is failing as a way to reduce plastic. Here’s why

The global recycling system for plastic is failing to effectively address the overwhelming amount of plastic waste being generated worldwide. Despite the common belief that recycling plastic can help mitigate the pollution crisis, the reality is that only nine percent of the world’s plastic has ever been recycled. This shocking statistic highlights the urgent need for more sustainable solutions to tackle the growing plastic pollution problem.

The production of plastic has surged in recent years, with annual production reaching 460 million tonnes in 2019. This increase in production is driven by demand from plastic producers and fossil fuel companies, who prioritize meeting consumer needs over environmental concerns. Despite calls for more sustainable practices, such as circularity in plastics, the industry continues to advocate for increased plastic production rather than reduction.

Internal documents have revealed that the industry has long known that recycling alone is not a viable solution to the plastic waste crisis. Instead, the industry has promoted recycling as a way to avoid plastic bans and maintain profits. While there are technological solutions, such as advanced chemical recycling, these methods have not proven to be effective in significantly reducing plastic waste.

One of the biggest challenges in managing plastic waste is the large amount of mismanaged plastic that ends up in the environment. This unaccounted-for plastic waste poses a significant threat to human health, as it breaks down into micro- and nano-plastics that can have harmful effects. To address this issue, there is a need for increased investment in waste management infrastructure globally, particularly in poorer countries that lack adequate resources for waste disposal.

While recycling is still an important part of the solution, it is clear that more comprehensive measures are needed to tackle the plastic pollution crisis. Setting a minimum of 40 percent recycled content worldwide and addressing the production of virgin plastics are crucial steps in reducing plastic waste. The High Ambition Coalition to End Plastic Pollution, of which Canada is a member, is calling for a treaty that addresses the root causes of plastic pollution and commits to reducing plastic production.

The ongoing negotiations in Busan, South Korea, present a unique opportunity for governments to take meaningful action to curb plastic pollution. By focusing on reducing plastic production, investing in waste management infrastructure, and increasing recycled content in products, we can begin to address the plastic pollution crisis and create a more sustainable future for our planet.