Plastics have fuelled global growth across various industries, but at an increasing environmental, economic, and social cost.

Today, plastic pollution represents a systemic and transboundary crisis, disproportionately affecting developing countries that have limited capacity for waste management.

$1.1-trillion in plastic trade, but 75% ends up as waste

In 2023, global plastic production reached 436 million metric tons, while trade in plastics surpassed $1.1-trillion, accounting for 5% of global merchandise trade. However, 75% of all plastic ever produced has become waste, much of which leaks into oceans and ecosystems.

This growing imbalance threatens public health, food systems, ecosystems, and long-term development, especially in small island and coastal nations.

Report by the United Nations Conference on Trade & Development