Plastic pollution in the ocean is a significant environmental problem, but a global strategy to address it is still lacking. The current linear plastic system results in the loss of billions of dollars’ worth of plastic packaging each year. Various solutions have been proposed, each with its own pros and cons. Understanding the effectiveness and implications of these solutions is crucial to tackling ocean plastic pollution.
This report presents 10 critical findings that demonstrate the existence of a viable path towards reducing plastic pollution. Developed by The Pew Charitable Trusts and SYSTEMIQ, the report offers an evidence-based roadmap to drastically reduce ocean plastic pollution by 2040. The research involved collaboration with experts from different fields and was published in the peer-reviewed journal, Science. The aim of this work is to provide guidance to policymakers, industry leaders, investors, and civil society on navigating the complex landscape of plastic pollution.
By emphasizing the interconnectedness of plastic design, reuse, recycling economics, and waste management, the report advocates for a circular economy approach to address this pressing environmental challenge.
“Addressing the challenge of plastic waste is both urgent and complex and will require accelerated, collective action and a transformation of the way society thinks about single-use plastics. This report calls for immediate bold action in the global effort to stem the tide of ocean plastics. It makes clear that through increased collaboration, across industries, we can help create systems change, build a circular economy for packaging, and turn the corner on ocean plastics.”
