Environmental impacts of the global plastic waste trade: assessment and mitigation

Abstract

The global trade in plastic waste has become a pressing issue, driven by the rapid increase in plastic production, which has led to a situation where developed countries export part of their waste to developing countries with lower recycling costs. While the trade may enhance recycling rates and support a circular economy by enabling material recovery, it also raises complex environmental and social concerns. In some cases, the waste may not be fully recycled, depending on its recyclability and the treatment methods used in the importing countries. These challenges are pronounced in less affluent waste-importing countries, where limited regulatory oversight increases the risk of pollution and long-term ecological harm. This study examines trade volumes, recycling rates, the effectiveness of various treatment methods, and the role of trade regulations to provide a comprehensive assessment of the environmental impacts of plastic waste trade.