India's Role in Global Plastic Waste Crisis

According to a new report by Swiss non-profit EA Earth Action released on 11th April 2024 revealed that, India, along with eleven other nations, contributes to 60% of the world's mismanaged plastic waste.

Key Points

Key Contributors: Twelve countries, including India, China, Russia, Brazil, and the United States, are major contributors to mismanaged plastic waste worldwide.
India's Status: While India's per capita plastic waste production is low (8 kg per capita per year), its expected mismanaged waste in 2024 is still significant at 7.4 million tons.
Microplastics and Additives: India is estimated to release large amounts of microplastics (391,879 tons) and chemical additives (31,483 tons) into the environment and waterways.
Comparative Analysis: Despite Belgium's high plastic waste generation per person (147.7 kg), India ranks low in plastic waste generation, but its mismanaged plastic waste remains concerning.
Oman's Challenge: Oman tops the list for mismanaged plastic waste, with 111 kg per person in 2024, highlighting a pressing issue in waste management.
Plastic Overshoot Day: By April 2024, nearly half of the world's population will reside in areas where plastic waste exceeds management capacity, with India reaching its Plastic Overshoot Day on April 23.