Global Plastic Consumption hits 516 million tons in 2025. Synthetic waste kills 13 million people annually
Global plastic consumption is projected to reach 516 million tonnes in the course of 2025 and if the current consumption patterns continue, it will rise to over 1.2 billion tonnes annually by 2060.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) Environmental factors arising from plastic pollution and waste contribute to the deaths of about 13 million people worldwide each year.
Around the globe, plastic pollution is contaminating water supplies, food sources, and the air we breathe.
As plastics break down, they enter the food chain and even contribute to air pollution.
Micro plastics have been detected in human arteries, lungs, brains, and breast milk.
The health and economic costs of unhealthy air pollution currently amount to USD 2.9 trillion.
Led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), this year’s World Environment Day (2025) campaign therefore focuses on tackling plastic pollution and urging countries, organizations, and individuals to act together to protect the planet from the same.
While plastics have benefits, including energy savings and resource conservation, the rising plastic pollution poses a significant threat to our planet and health.
On World Environment Day, communities were urged to advocate for lasting solutions to combat plastic pollution.
Historically, recycling has been a key strategy for mitigating plastic waste. However, only 9 percent of plastics produced globally are recycled, and it is estimated that just 21 percent of plastic today is economically recyclable, meaning the value of recycled materials covers the costs of collection, sorting, and processing.
The benefits of addressing plastic pollution include cleaner oceans and landscapes, healthier individuals and ecosystems, improved climate resilience, and stronger economies.
Transitioning to a circular economy for plastics is essential for a sustainable future. We must rethink how we design, produce, and utilize plastics. Products should be designed with multiple uses in mind and recycling.
This transformation requires the engagement of stakeholders across the plastics value chain. A just transition is necessary to protect the livelihoods of waste pickers and affected communities, leaving no one behind.
But solutions do exist
In 2022, at the United Nations’ Environment Assembly, Member States agreed to initiate negotiations on a legally binding international instrument to address plastic pollution, including its impact on marine environments.
Since then, countries have convened 5 sessions of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) on Plastic Pollution to work towards a comprehensive agreement.