India has emerged as the world’s biggest contributor to plastic pollution, generating 9.3 million tonnes in 2020 — roughly 20% of the global total. Nigeria and Indonesia follow closely, with 3.5 million and 3.4 million tonnes, respectively, says a new study from the University of Leeds.
This groundbreaking study analyzed data from over 50,000 municipalities, shedding light on the key contributors to global plastic waste.
SHIFTING RANKINGS: CHINA DROPS TO FOURTH
China, once reported as the worst plastic polluter, now ranks fourth, producing 2.8 million tonnes of plastic waste. The country has made significant strides in improving waste collection and processing systems in recent years, which have lowered its contribution to global plastic pollution. In contrast, India’s large population of 1.4 billion and inefficient waste management systems have pushed it to the top of the list.
UK’S LITTERING PROBLEM: RANKED 135TH IN GLOBAL POLLUTION
The United Kingdom ranked 135th in the global plastic pollution index, generating approximately 4,000 tonnes annually. While the country benefits from comprehensive waste management systems, littering remains a significant source of plastic waste, particularly macro plastic pollution (plastic items larger than 5 millimetres).
A STARK CONTRAST: PLASTIC POLLUTION IN THE GLOBAL NORTH VS. GLOBAL SOUTH
The study revealed a sharp contrast in plastic waste generation between the Global North and the Global South. In wealthier nations, plastic waste is more efficiently managed, and littering is the primary cause of macro plastic pollution. Meanwhile, in low- and middle-income countries like India and Nigeria, much of the waste remains uncollected or ends up in dumpsites, worsening the plastic crisis.
SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA: A GROWING PLASTIC POLLUTION HOTSPOT
While Sub-Saharan Africa’s overall plastic pollution levels remain relatively low, researchers are concerned about the region’s future. Countries in this region experience an average of 12 kilograms of plastic pollution per person annually — equivalent to more than 400 plastic bottles per person. For comparison, the UK’s per-capita plastic pollution is less than three bottles per person annually.
RISING POPULATION, POOR WASTE MANAGEMENT IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA
Researchers fear Sub-Saharan Africa could become a major global plastic pollution hotspot within a few decades. The region’s waste management systems are underdeveloped, and its population is expected to grow rapidly, exacerbating plastic pollution in the years to come.
A CALL FOR GLOBAL ACTION: ADDRESSING THE GROWING PLASTIC CRISIS
This new research highlights the urgent need for global action, particularly in addressing uncollected waste and improving waste management infrastructure in countries like India, Nigeria, and Sub-Saharan Africa. Policymakers are urged to focus on resource recovery and sustainable waste management solutions to prevent these regions from becoming even larger sources of plastic pollution.