Plastic has become one of the biggest environmental challenges of modern times, with staggering figures showing the scale of the problem.
1. 400 million tons of plastic waste annually
The world produces about 400 million tons of plastic waste each year, a dramatic increase since the mass production of plastics began in the 1950s.
2. The USA is the leader in plastic production
The United States produces 42 million metric tons of plastic waste each year, with most of it ending up in the environment, making it the largest contributor in the world.
3. 8 million tons of plastic in the oceans every year
Approximately 8 million tons of plastic enter the oceans each year, causing enormous damage to marine life and their fragile ecosystems.
4. Increased pollution of the oceans
Ocean plastic pollution is expected to increase to 29 million metric tons per year by 2040 if immediate remedial action is not taken.
5. 100,000 animals die from plastic
Each year, around 100,000 marine animals die from entanglement in plastic waste, endangering marine biodiversity.
6. Human consumption of plastic
People consume about 5 grams of plastic every week, increasing the presence of microplastics in food and water.
7. Gas emissions from plastics
Plastic production contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, with US emissions expected to surpass coal emissions by 2030.
8. Impact of COVID-19
The pandemic has increased the production and use of plastic bottles and PPE, adding to ocean pollution due to the removal of masks and personal protective equipment.
These statistics show the essence of the challenges that plastic pollution brings to our environment and emphasize the urgency of action to protect our planet for the future.
