That report discusses the economic and business models needed to deal with the negative impacts of the plastics economy.
The document presents a proposal to comprehensively address the causes of plastic pollution. It seeks to reduce the problematic and unnecessary use of plastic and promote a circular approach to its production and consumption. To achieve these goals, changes need to be made in three main areas: reuse, recycling and diversification of reuse. Steps must also be taken to address the historic impact of plastic pollution.
Reuse refers to the shift from a “throw-and-go economy” to a “reuse society”, where it makes more economic sense to reuse plastic products rather than to throw them away. The report highlights the importance of boosting the plastic recycling market to make it a more economically profitable business.
Reorientation-diversification refers to the market transitioning towards more sustainable options instead of plastic. To achieve this, it will be necessary to change consumer demand, regulations and associated costs.
According to the report, these solutions are already available and it is suggested to implement a complete change in the relevant systems and sectors, supported by the appropriate regulations. This will generate a range of economic benefits and help reduce damage to human health, the environment and the climate.
How to achieve a planet without plastic pollution?
Systemic changes are needed to address the root causes of plastic pollution. An effective strategy to tackle plastic pollution is to combine reducing problematic and unnecessary uses of plastic with three key changes in the marketplace: reuse, recycle and diversify. In addition, it is important to take concrete measures to solve the accumulated problem of garbage and plastic pollution.
With information from unep.org