Plastic Circularity: A Sustainable Solution For A Cleaner Tomorrow

In a world grappling with the alarming consequences of plastic waste, we find ourselves at a critical crossroads. The urgency to address this global challenge has never been more pressing. However, amidst the overwhelming statistics and dire predictions, there is a glimmer of hope—a sustainable solution that holds the key to a cleaner tomorrow. Welcome to the realm of plastic circularity, where we envision a future where waste is transformed into valuable resources, our ecosystems are protected, and the well-being of future generations is safeguarded.

Plastic waste poses a significant threat to our environment, ecosystems, and our health. It's alarming to witness the devastating impact it has on our planet. Backed by data from McKinsey & Company and NITI Aayog, we acknowledge that the production and disposal of plastics contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, the loss of natural resources resulting from current waste management systems represents a missed economic opportunity. Shockingly, estimates suggest that 95% of the material value of used plastic packaging, equivalent to USD 80-120 billion, is lost annually.

The 2018 UNEP report reveals that plastic litter in the Asia-Pacific region alone costs its tourism, fishing, and shipping industries USD 1.3 billion per year. Cleaning up plastic trash from beaches and coasts in Europe costs roughly €630 million a year. Additionally, research shows that plastic harm to marine ecosystems around the world costs at least US$13 billion annually. These figures clearly demonstrate the economic, health, and environmental reasons to take action.

According to the Plastic Waste Makers Index 2021, Singapore tops the list of countries in per capita single-use plastic waste generation at 76 kg, followed by Australia at 56 kg. The report further reveals that, in absolute terms, China is the largest producer of single-use plastic, generating 25.36 million tonnes annually, followed by the United States with 17.19 million tonnes and India with 5.58 million tonnes. Japan closely follows India with an annual plastic waste generation of 4.7 million tonnes.

In India, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) estimates a high recycling rate of about 60% for post-consumer plastic waste. However, this recycling is predominantly carried out by the informal sector, which includes waste pickers, aggregators, and informal recycling units. Despite the MSWM Rules 2016 mandating the structured integration of the informal sector into formal waste management systems, there is still room for improvement.  

Chemical recycling offers a game-changing solution. By complementing other recycling methods, it allows us to increase the amount of plastic that can be recycled by approximately three times compared to current levels. This means a significant reduction in plastic waste ending up in landfills or incinerators. Instead, we can transform it into new, high-quality plastics suitable for various applications, including food packaging, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices.

The benefits of plastic circularity go beyond waste reduction. By embracing advanced recycling, we can pave the way for a more sustainable future. We not only preserve valuable resources but also minimise our carbon footprint, contributing to global efforts to combat climate change. With UpCycle and other sustainable technologies, we are fostering a circular economy where plastics are continually recycled, preventing their release into our waterways, rivers, and natural habitats.

On this World Environment Day, let us unite in the pursuit of a more sustainable world. Together, we can revolutionise the way we handle plastic waste, protect our ecosystems, and safeguard the well-being of future generations. By embracing plastic circularity and advanced recycling, we have the power to transform waste into valuable resources, reduce our carbon footprint, and create a cleaner, greener planet for all.

(The author is President and CEO, Honeywell India)