GS 3 – ENVIRONMENT
Context
Plastic pollution has emerged as a serious global environmental issue, impacting ecosystems, biodiversity, sustainable development, and human health. The issue has gained urgency as the production and waste generation of plastics have surged dramatically in recent decades. The 2024 World Environment Day (June 5) was centered on the theme “Ending Plastic Pollution.”
Key Facts and Data
- Rising Plastic Production:
- Global plastic production doubled between 2000 and 2019, reaching 460 million tonnes annually.
- Waste generation increased to 353 million tonnes in 2019.
- By 2060, global plastic waste is projected to triple, reaching 1.2 billion tonnes.
- Recycling and Waste Management:
- Only 9% of plastic is recycled worldwide.
- 19% is incinerated, 50% ends up in landfills, and 22% escapes into the environment.
- Types of waste generation by sector:
- 40% from packaging
- 12% from consumer goods
- 11% from textiles
- Marine Plastic Crisis:
- Each year, 11 million tonnes of plastic flow into the oceans.
- By mid-century, there could be more plastic than fish in the ocean by weight.
- Greenhouse Gas Impact:
- Plastics account for 3.4% of global greenhouse gas emissions.
- By 2040, plastic production and disposal could account for 19% of the total global carbon budget.
Why This Is a Grave Problem
- Plastics are non-biodegradable, breaking down into micro and nano-particles that infiltrate every part of the planet—from Mount Everest to ocean depths.
- These microplastics contaminate soil, water, and even the human food chain.
- Plastic waste threatens the health of marine ecosystems and biodiversity.
International Actions
- UN Environment Assembly (2022):
- 193 UN member states agreed to end plastic pollution through a legally binding international treaty.
- The aim is to cut plastic waste by 80% within two decades through:
- Better product design
- Waste reduction strategies
- Improved recycling systems
- International cooperation
Proposed Solutions
- Government-Level Measures:
- Restrict production of virgin plastics (primary plastics).
- Impose landfill and incineration taxes.
- Implement Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes.
- Introduce deposit refunds and pay-as-you-throw systems.
- Technological and Market Solutions:
- Improve recycling technology.
- Build profitable markets for recycled plastics.
- Individual Responsibility:
- Reduce single-use plastics.
- Adopt sustainable alternatives in daily life.
- Promote responsible consumer behavior.
India’s Relevance
- India, as a signatory to international agreements, must:
- Enforce strict plastic waste management rules.
- Promote awareness campaigns like Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.
- Strengthen recycling infrastructure.